oDay 53, Read Ac. 27:1-20. 27:2: "Aristarchus was with us."

Paul, as always, had companions.  "Us" meant Dr. Luke was also along for this trip; his medical skills would be handy, not only to Paul but to the entire ship.  As for Aristarchus, he was likely young and his strong body would be of help.  Aristarchus was from Thessalonica.  Paul visited there briefly, yet an energetic church was born, Aristarchus being one of the bright lights.  He joined Paul for the trip to Jerusalem, and then apparently stayed with him through the 2 year Caesarean imprisonment, the voyage to Rome, and the 1st Roman imprisonment.  Paul's simple description of this man was "my fellow prisoner" (Gal. 4:10; Phlm. 1:24).  There is no evidence that Aristarchus was ever arrested; he simply attached himself in love to Paul, joining him in prison to care for his needs.  He is contrasted to Demas (Col. 4:14; Phlm. 1:24).  Demas also seems to be along for now, but would later leave Paul for this world (2 Tim. 4:10).  Oh to be faithful in the obligation to love my brothers!!!