The Good Ole Days and the Golden Era

Acts 15:36-41  New English Translation

After some days Paul said to Barnabas, “Let’s return and visit the brothers in every town where we proclaimed the word of the Lord to see how they are doing.”  Barnabas wanted to bring John called Mark along with them too, but Paul insisted that they should not take along this one who had left them in Pamphylia and had not accompanied them in the work. They had a sharp disagreement, so that they parted company. Barnabas took along Mark and sailed away to Cyprus, but Paul chose Silas and set out, commended to the grace of the Lord by the brothers and sisters. He passed through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.

Reflection

     The days of "The Acts of the Apostles" was such a great time in the church. Many believers might imagine that time longingly as the Golden Era when the church was its greatest. The Spirit moved through the church. All the sermons were fresh. The miracles were powerful and the forces of sin and death were falling left and right. The Saints and Martyrs were wonderful and perfect in every way. Haha. Yeah, that last sentence needs an edit. The Saints and Martyrs were a lot like us. They did good things, full of the Spirit. Sharing the Good News makes a huge difference in the lives of others. However, this passage should inspire us to see how sometimes even the best leaders among us need to work through their differences. We are all flawed and still beloved creatures of the Creator. They agreed to a separation. There was a personality
clash. For the sake of the Gospel, they decided it would be best to part ways. Please note also that they each needed to have a partner. This God stuff is not a solo venture.

     As much as we might like to think back to a time and label it as "the Good Ole Days," this does not apply to the church. The best time to be the church is now. We are able to use even more technology. We are able to connect, network, and use resources from all over the Creation. We are able to be inspired and learn from places where the church is growing (The Global South!). Europe and the Americas can learn more than just a thing or two. People still search for meaning and need to hear our understanding of  "Christ is Risen."

     Also, if there is a parting of company that had to happen in your life, let this little bit of Good News help you come to a fuller reconciliation--forgiving yourself and the other so that you may all move on and be at peace. The gift of peace is the work of the Risen Jesus' Spirit. Take it in and let it move you to a new place of life and hope!

Risen Jesus, release us from all those memories that hold us back. Help us to see your scars and know that you still heal and you still know what it feels like to be where we are. We thank you that you are with us and that you lead us on. All praise to you and the Father, with the Holy Spirit, now and forever. Amen.