Often when someone is first starting their journey into the
Bible, it will be suggested they start with Mark. Of the Gospels, it is the
shortest and most straightforward. It focuses on Jesus’ ministry and miracles,
slowing revealing that is God and the Messiah. St. Mark was not one of the Twelve, but he was most likely an
early follower of Jesus and present when he was arrested and crucified in
Jerusalem.
Mark’s mother opened her home to the Apostles as a meeting
place in Acts. (Acts 12:12) Mark joined Paul and his cousin Barnabas on their
first mission to Antioch in 44.(Acts 13:13)When they reached Cyprus, Mark
returned to Jerusalem.
Later, Mark went to Rome, with plans of visiting Asia Minor.
While he was there, Paul was arrested, and Mark visited him in prison. (Col
4:10) He was in Asia Minor during Paul’s second imprisonment, and Paul asked
Timothy to bring Mark with him to carry on the ministry in Rome.
He also worked closely with Peter, who referred to Mark as
his son in letters to churches in Asia Minor. Mark’s Gospel was written between
60-70 based on the teaching of Peter. It is traditionally held that Mark
himself is the man described as running away naked from Jesus’ arrest (Mark
14:51-52). After all, why include such an anecdote, and if one did, why not
name the man? The Gospel of Mark is most likely the earliest Gospel written. It
recounts the miracles of Jesus’ ministry for a Greco-Roman, Christian audience
in order to strengthen their faith.
Mark was the first bishop of Alexandria. He lived there for
many years, and it was there he was martyred while being dragged through the
streets. He is often depicted with a book (his Gospel) and a lion, representing
the opening of his Gospel: John the Baptist “crying out like a lion” to prepare
the way for the Lord. St. Mark's feast day is April 25.
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