“All things are difficult before they are easy.” –Thomas Fuller (1608-1601), English historian, writer, and churchman

I was speaking to friend who is a single young man . He told me about a time he was “forced” to go along with his female cousin on a first date. This was not in the United States. He was performing the role of a chaperone. He concluded it was a good thing because the date was not a success. His cousin never saw the man again, but she was afforded a safe and comfortable environment to meet someone. He looked back upon the experience with fondness. 

“And He summoned the twelve and began to send them out in pairs, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits..” Mark 6:7 

Jesus paired up the disciples and sent them out. There was a Jewish tradition of two witnesses. The Old Testament law stipulated two witnesses to convict someone of a crime. (Deut. 19:15) It is a common sense idea that two witnesses are more reliable than one. When two of Jesus’ disciples proclaimed the good news it was more likely to receive a hearing. 

There is power in shared ministry. Paul shared with Barnabas and Timothy. And Lydia. Aquila and Priscilla warmly welcomed Paul and Apollos.

 Peter, James and John. Mary and Martha. 

Spread the gospel, but don’t go it alone. There is power and safety in twos..or threes or fours. Who are your “chaperones” in ministry? Consider all those who God has paired you with over the years to do his work. 

Prayer: 

Heavenly Father, 

Help me not to be alone in my effort to serve you. I thank you for the partners you have given me throughout my life. May I consistently share your work with those around me building up the church. Amen