John was with them as their helper. (Acts 13:5)
Serving alongside my children was one of the highlights of my time in children’s ministry. I enjoyed teaching the kids, worshiping with them, and sharing the Word of God with them. However, I missed the community built when I worked just with other volunteers. Once my children came in as junior helpers, their presence changed everything. It was an opportunity for me to serve in the way God desired, along with teaching my own children about the value of serving others, pouring into those coming behind me, and building community. It’s true we are called to serve. It’s also true we are called to teach others to serve together.
Barnabas and Saul were commissioned to go into the world and preach the Word of God. They were capable. Yet, John Mark went with them as their helper. It was an opportunity for them to not only share the gospel but also to teach another how to share it.
Jesus did not teach us to just go and share the gospel. He commanded us to go and make disciples. Just as Barnabas and Saul were making a disciple of John, we are invited to make disciples as well. Yes, Christ-followers should share the gospel with others. And yes, we should allow others to walk alongside us and learn how to go and share the gospel themselves.
Be willing to disciple and make disciple-makers.
Tara Klein is a Wesley Seminary graduate who enjoys relaxing with her family, serving others, and sharing God’s unconditional love with the lost and brokenhearted.
© 2022 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
