Memorial of St Barnabas, apostle (June 11)

Theme: Be a source of encouragement to others

Reading: Acts 11:21b-26;13:1–3

On this 11th day of June, the Church celebrates a saint whose life has an important lesson to teach all of us, especially in the light of the current state of economic hardship that has befallen our nation. This saint is Barnabas.

According to Acts of the Apostles 4:36–37, Barnabas was a native of Cyprus, a Levite, and was converted to the faith shortly after the Pentecost. His name was Joseph, but after his incredible acts of encouragement in the early Christian community, the apostles changed it to Barnabas, which means “son of encouragement.”

When the church was just getting started and all believers needed both material and moral support, only the name of Barnabas was mentioned among those who contributed materially. He sold his field and gave the proceeds to the apostles. By doing so, he encouraged the community of believers in their spiritual and communal life. (Acts 4:32–37).

Barnabas’ acts of encouragement were not limited to material donation, he also devoted his life to encouraging and strengthening young Christian communities. In the passage of today’s first reading, he was sent to the young Christian community of Antioch and he exhorted them to be faithful to the Lord. His words of encouragement and support were so strong in them to the extent that their lifestyle won the admiration of the citizens of Antioch, who responded by calling them Christians — followers of Christ. (Acts 11:19:26)

Paul’s success as a missionary and his acceptance into the Christian community of Jerusalem were both greatly aided by Barnabas. When the Church in Jerusalem was afraid to welcome Paul into their fold after his conversion, it was Barnabas who stepped in and explained to them what happened to Paul on his way to Damascus and encouraged them to give Paul a seat among the disciples. (Acts 9:26–30). He was Paul’s companion in almost all his missionary journeys right from the day the Holy Spirit asked that the two of them be set aside for mission (Acts 13:2)

Dear friends in Christ, the present situation of our nation needs men and women who will rise up and encourage their brothers and sister to stay strong by offering them both material and moral support, just as Barnabas did for the early Church. Never you miss any opportunity to encourage someone materially, spiritually and morally.

Have a blessed day. St Barnabas, pray for us

Fr Isaac Chima