#soap # 2 Timothy 01 ## Title: Don’t Give Up On People ## Scripture: (2 Timothy 4:11) “Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you because he is a great help to me in ministry.” (NET) ## Observation: There is a history between Paul and Mark. Earlier in their lives, Mark went on a missionary journey with Paul and Barnabas. For some reason, Mark abandoned them during the trip. When Paul and Barnabas were preparing to go on their second trip, Barnabas wanted to bring Mark again. Paul disagreed. The situation caused Paul and Barnabas to split up. It was likely bad for a while. Paul was not interested in partnering with Mark. However, at the end of his life, Paul is asking specifically for Mark. They have restored their relationship and Paul now needs Mark to come. It’s important that we never give up on people. Sometimes, people are broken in ways that keep us from being close to them. Sometimes we have to place healthy boundaries so we cannot be wounded by their issues. However, we never lose hope that God will restore the relationship. Who knows? Maybe one day you will be close again. You may say, “That would take a miracle.” Yep. That sounds like a job for the Lord. ## Application: Be wise and use healthy boundaries, but never give up on the possibility of reconciliation. ## Prayer: Thank You, Jesus, for being able to work miracles.