Aristarchus my fellow prisoner greets you, and Mark the cousin of Barnabas (concerning whom you have received instructions—if he comes to you, welcome him), and Jesus who is called Justus. These are the only men of the circumcision among my fellow workers for the kingdom of God, and they have been a comfort to me.
Colossians 4:10-11
Father God, today my soul finds comfort in Your care for me, sending individuals whom I have had relationship with, whether good or not so good, that I might find what I stand in the need of in the moment. In my current circumstances I often find myself overwhelmed and discouraged, feeling bound or confined to the place where I am at, unable to move freely like a prisoner, restricted in my ability to rise above them. Yet, in Your sovereign wisdom You send individuals to bring a word of encouragement to me, many times folks that I have had odds with in the past. Through them I can see Your hand at work causing what has been a source of concern to become a seed of hope, because I can see You working things for my good. When others abandoned me, You have ensured that there was someone who believed in me and commits to be with me through it all, binding our hearts together in Christ. This morning I thank You for them and the promise that is ours through our sacrificial love for one another. Help me to unite my work with theirs, looking past the “externals” and seeing their hearts. Don’t allow me to selfishly be consumed with where I am so that I miss where they are and how together we can advance the kingdom. Allow us to comfort one another as we navigate through the challenges before us, encouraging one another and upholding one another as You work out Your perfect will for all of us. Thank You for having all of this worked out before we have even engaged in it. Be glorified by our union in Jesus’ Name. Amen.