11 June 2022
The hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number became believers and turned to the Lord. News of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. When he came and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast devotion; for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were brought to the Lord.
From Acts 11:21-26, 13:1-3, NRSV
In today’s reading we have our first mention of Barnabas who was to become a leading figure in the early Christian community. It is clear that others had seen the qualities that Barnabas possessed and because of these, he was chosen to visit Antioch to meet Paul. After a lengthy stay in Antioch, Barnabas brought Paul to Jerusalem and introduced him to the apostles. Barnabas and Paul then embarked on a missionary journey of which Barnabas seems to have been the leader. It is generally thought that the name Barnabas translates as “son of encouragement” and it is clear that he lived up to his name in the support and encouragement that he gave to Paul and to the early Christians.
- How important was encouragement to the early Church?
- How important is encouragement in our communities today and who is called to offer this?
Look for the opportunities that present themselves today to offer support and encouragement to others.
