A Call to Discipleship: Reflections from Colossians

January 2nd

Nineth Day of Christmas

Aristarchus my fellow prisoner greets you, as does Mark the cousin of Barnabas, concerning whom you have received instructions – if he comes to you, welcome him. And Jesus who is called Justus greets you. These are the only ones of the circumcision among my co-workers for the kingdom of God, and they have been a comfort to me.

Colossians 4: 10-11

When Joel and I first married, we enjoyed visiting his former church on our trips to California. This church loved missionaries and missions. Each visit usually included hearing a story from a missionary or from someone connected to missions. Hearing about overseas missions was just part of the DNA of the congregation… and I always came home blessed and encouraged.

In the same way, Paul continues to make connections between the Colossians and fellow missionaries. In these verses we learn about three men: Aristarchus, Justus, and Mark. We learn that Aristarchus is a fellow prisoner. From the Book of Acts, we learn that Aristarchus and Paul share some grand adventures for the Gospel.

In contrast, Scripture only mentions Justus here in this passage. We only know of his Jewish background, along with the Jewish background of Aristarchus and Mark.

We probably know the most about Mark, also known as John Mark. Paul requests that the Colossians welcome Mark if he visits them. Why would Paul have to make this request? Wouldn’t they automatically welcome Mark? Well… maybe not.

We know Mark joined Paul and Barnabas on a mission trip, but then abruptly left. We know Paul lost confidence in Mark as a result. We know that this caused conflict between Paul and Barnabas, eventually causing them to separate. A split between church leaders would be well known within the overall church community. But this passage gives us hope of healing, even in church splits. This passage implies a reconciliation occurred between Paul and Mark.

Not only does Paul ask the Colossians to welcome Mark, but Paul also describes all three fellow Jewish men as a comfort. These few words offer a glimpse into Paul’s struggle for the Gospel.

Paul loves the Gentiles, but Paul still sometimes feels like an outsider. Have you ever been in a minority? For many years, I lived and worked in the inner city. I also attended a black church. These experiences grew my faith in profound ways. Cross-cultural living brings wonderful gifts, but sometimes it also brings loneliness. Even as Paul invites us into new social structures, he knows and understands the cost. He still takes comfort in being with fellow Jewish men.

This passage shines a light on the humanity of Jesus followers. Conflicts occur. Loneliness is real. Following Jesus can be messy and painful. But Jesus brings reconciliation. Jesus brings comfort. Jesus provides for our needs. As we journey to Epiphany, let us consider our life as Jesus followers. Do we count the cost? Is mission part of our DNA as a church and as an individual?