Paul commends Mark and a few others to the Colossians. While this may not seem significant, we must remember that Paul had refused to take Mark with him on his second missionary journey, because Mark left during the first missionary journey. (Acts 15:36ff) Barnabas disagreed. The disagreement was so sharp that Paul and Barnabas parted ways. Mark's career in ministry did not start well. Yet later Paul commended Mark to the Colossians, encouraging them to welcome him and stating that he was one of a few loyal Jewish believers who were his fellow workers and comforters. Mark had a second chance.
What happened? First, someone mentored Mark. Barnabas, the same man that worked with Paul at the beginning of his ministry, took Mark with him as a ministry partner. Something must have happened during that mentoring relationship to transform Mark from a deserter to a faithful minister.
Second, Mark did not hold a grudge. He could have decided to let Paul rot in jail since he had rejected Mark before. But he came to Paul's aid instead.
Third, Paul gave Mark a second chance. Although he had once rejected Mark, he later worked with him as a ministry partner.
Never count someone out. You never know how God may use that person for His glory.
