Write it down. Read Mark 1:1-7. John Mark is introduced to us in Acts 12 because his mother opened her home to the disciples. John Mark accompanied Paul and Barnabas but later abandoned them on their first missionary journey. When Paul and Barnabas were discussing their second missionary journey, Barnabas wanted to take John Mark, but Paul was against it. The disagreement caused a split. Paul took Silas, while Barnabas took John, Mark, and they went their separate ways. Years later, when Paul was in prison, we wrote that John Mark was a cousin of Barnabas and a fellow worker in his ministry (Colossians 4:10-11; Philemon 1:24). Peter referred to John Mark as "a son in the faith" (1 Peter 5:13). Paul wrote Timothy, asking him to send John Mark to him when he was in prison. If John Mark went, that would put him in Rome when both Paul and Peter were imprisoned during the reign of Emperor Nero. We believe that John Mark wrote the Gospel of Mark shortly after Nero had Paul and Peter executed. The Gospel of Mark is the earliest gospel that survived the first century. Luke mentioned that there were many who had undertaken the goal of writing the events of Jesus. If there were many, only four gospels survived. The story of John Mark teaches us several things. First, he had a desire to share the gospel. Second, he was able to overcome failure at a young age in order to be effectively used by God later in life. Third, he was able to be reconciled to the people he had let down. Fourth, he glorified God and edified us by writing the story of Jesus’ death and resurrection. Today might be the inspiration for you to write down your faith story. God is still at work today in your life. Your story is a testimony and has the possibility of encouraging someone today, and perhaps after your time here on earth is done.

Prayer: Lord God on high, as you gave the Holy Spirit inspiration to the gospel writers, lead me to write a testimony that glorifies your name and inspires others to come to faith or be strengthened in their faith. Amen.