(story told in Acts 12:25-13:13; 15:36-39)
John Mark, often called Mark, was a young follower of Jesus and an early helper in the work of the church. He was the cousin of Barnabas and came from a family that supported the first believers—his mother’s house in Jerusalem was a meeting place for Christians, including Peter after he escaped from prison. Mark grew up surrounded by faith and service, and he joined Barnabas and Paul on their first missionary journey to share the gospel.
At first, Mark traveled with enthusiasm, but when the group reached a difficult part of the journey in Pamphylia, he left them and returned home to Jerusalem. The Bible doesn’t say exactly why he left, but his decision disappointed Paul. When Barnabas later suggested taking Mark on another journey, Paul refused, saying Mark had deserted them before. The disagreement became so strong that Barnabas and Paul went separate ways—Barnabas took Mark to Cyprus, while Paul went with Silas to Syria.
Though this conflict caused division, it wasn’t the end of Mark’s story. Over time, he grew in faith and maturity. Later in his ministry, Paul spoke warmly of Mark, calling him a valuable helper and even asking for him to come during his imprisonment. Their reconciliation showed God’s power to restore broken relationships.
Tradition tells us that John Mark later wrote the Gospel of Mark, one of the four accounts of Jesus’ life.
Mark’s story reminds us that failure isn’t final. Even when we fall short, God gives second chances. Like Mark, we can grow, be restored, and still play an important part in God’s plan.