Memorial of Saint Barnabas, Apostle
They sent Barnabas to go to Antioch.
When he arrived and saw the grace of God,
he rejoiced and encouraged them all
to remain faithful to the Lord in firmness of heart,
for he was a good man, filled with the Holy Spirit and faith.
Acts 11:22-24
News of something big happening in Antioch reaches the Church in Jerusalem. They send Barnabas to check it out. He immediately recognises a genuine move of God and encourages the local church. Scripture seems to say this is a natural response from a man who is good and filled with the Holy Spirit and faith.
Earlier, scripture records that the Apostles had named Barnabas "Son of Encouragement" (Acts 4:36) and today's reading proves this was for good reason. Barnabas would have been one of those guys that every team needs, a cheerful Charlie who is the first to see good and encourage it. Would people call me a Son of Encouragement?. I am very quick to criticise, not so quick to encourage. This is a virtue I can work on, today.
Lord Jesus, You are always the first to overlook fault and seek out virtue in a person. Help me do the same.
Saint Barnabas please pray for me.
