Restoration

 Aristarchus my fellow prisoner greets you, and Mark the cousin of Barnabas (concerning whom you have received instructions—if he comes to you, welcome him),
Colossians 4:10 ESV
https://bible.com/bible/59/col.4.10.ESV

I love this verse, that hints at the restoration of Mark. Mark had been a partner in the gospel with Paul, until he ran away. Paul initially refused to work with him.

By the time of this letter, Paul and Mark were evidently reconciled. Mark had messed up, but God had restored him. There's hope for us all.

In another verse, Paul asks for Mark to be brought to him, because he was useful to him in his ministry. From being a useless dropout, Mark became once again an invaluable partner in the gospel. When we feel like giving up, we should be encouraged by Mark's story.

The flip side of the coin is to consider Paul. He could have written Mark off, but he refused to do so. By welcoming him back, he gained a valuable member of his team.

'O Lord our God, help us always to serve You well. When we don't, please restore us, and help us to be merciful and gracious to others, in Christ's name, amen'

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