In May 1884, two young parents disagreed about what middle name to give
their newborn son. The mom preferred Solomon; the dad, Shippe – both family
names. Because John and Martha couldn’t agree, they compromised on “S.” Thus
Harry S. Truman would become the only US president with an initial for a middle
name.
Over 120 years later, we still know about this conflict – but we also
know that a reasonable resolution was reached.
In the New Testament, we read about another disagreement that has lived
on in history. This one was between two missionaries: Paul and Barnabas (Acts
15). Barnabas wanted to take Mark with them on a trip to check on some churches
they had helped previously (v.37). But Paul did not trust Mark because of an
earlier incident (v.38). Paul and Barnabas disagreed so sharply that they
parted ways (v.39).
We still read about this argument 2,000 years later. What’s important is
not that it lived on in history, but that it didn’t leave permanent
relationship scars. Paul apparently reconciled with Barnabas, and in his final
days asked for Mark to be with him because “he is useful to me for ministry” (2
Tim 4:11).
Arguments happen. But let’s make sure they are resolved. Grudges are a
burden too heavy to carry.
A grudge is one thing that doesn’t get better when it’s nursed. (RBC)
