Putting The Past Behind!

We enjoy being given ANOTHER CHANCE. When we have not acted properly we don’t like that one incident to be the thing that defines us for life. However, are we as willing to be this way toward others as we are eager to have it done for us? We can change. The past does not have to define us. We need to remember that this is just as true for others as it is for us! Those with whom our relationship may not have been very beneficial at one point may become even more so at some other time if we are willing to provide the opportunity.

When I think of such situations I am reminded of Paul and John Mark (cousin of Barnabas) and also Philemon and Onesimus. There was a point in those relationships when there was conflict and disagreement. Nevertheless, that is not where it was allowed to remain!

First consider the relationship between Philemon and Onesimus. Onesimus was a slave and therefore the property of Philemon. Apparently Onesimus did not like his master because he ran off and was noted by Paul as having been useless to Philemon at that time. ( Philemon 11) However, note the transition that took place as Paul wrote on behalf of Onesimus whom he was sending back to Philemon.

We read…
“(11) Formerly he was useless to you, BUT NOW HE IS INDEED USEFUL TO YOU AND TO ME. … (15) For this perhaps is why he was parted from you for a while, that you might HAVE HIM BACK FOREVER, (16) no longer as a slave but more than a slave, AS A BELOVED BROTHER -- especially to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.” ( Philemon 11 & 15-16 ESV)

Now consider the relationship between Paul and Mark. John Mark had joined Paul and Barnabas in their missionary travels ( Acts 13:2-5), but deserted them on the way. ( Acts 13:13) When Barnabas wanted to bring him along again it brought Paul and Barnabas into sharp disagreement with each other. ( Acts 15:36-38) Due to this disagreement, Paul and Silas went one way while Barnabas and John Mark went another. ( Acts 15:39-40) Though there was conflict, at least they did not stop the work, but instead in the process doubled the effort.

Later in Paul’s second letter to Timothy he would write…
“(11) Luke alone is with me. GET MARK AND BRING HIM WITH YOU, FOR HE IS VERY USEFUL TO ME FOR MINISTRY.” ( 2 Timothy 4:11 ESV)

In both cases we find there was a transition into usefulness and restoration of the relationship in a much more glorious way than might have been otherwise. In the case of Onesimus -- having come into contact with Paul -- he was able to return not just as a slave, but better yet, as a brother in Christ. Mark grew into being very useful in the ministry of Paul. Perhaps it is also worthy to note that Mark is mentioned in the final greetings of Paul’s letter to Philemon ( Philemon 24) as well as in his letter to the church at Colossae. ( Colossians 4:10)

We change! We grow! So do others! Relationships can be renewed and become mutually beneficial once again. Are we giving THE CHANCE we ourselves wish to be given? Let us exercise patience and seek God’s help in being humble enough to be open to offering ANOTHER CHANCE. Such action reveals our own appreciation for God having provided that for us.

Have a great day ENCOURAGED BY THE ROOM FOR GROWING!
Carl

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