ST. BARNABAS, APOSTLE
Acts 11:21–26; 13:1-3; Psalm 98; Matthew 10:7–13
Barnabas is one of the least-known apostles. He played an essential role in the spread of the gospel, yet he is not as famous as Paul in the Epistles or as well-known as Peter in the acts. You don’t have to be famous to be effective in the Kingdom.
George Santayana once said, “The highest form of vanity is love of fame.” The Kingdom of God runs not on celebrities, but on servants. Heaven measures greatness not by how loud your voice is, but by how deep your love goes. You don’t need a spotlight to shine for Christ.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus sends out His disciples saying: “Proclaim that the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.” Then He instructed them; be generous, humble, and authentic. You cannot preach a generous Gospel with a selfish life. Your character is your greatest megaphone. Barnabas was more than generous, he sold his land and gave the money to the apostles (Acts 4:37). That’s not just generosity, that is radical kingdom living. Good character can never be separated from the gospel we preach. You too can be selfless.
Barnabas’ actual name is Joses; he was nicknamed Barnabas, which means “Son of Encouragement.” He encouraged others so much that they nicknamed him the Son of Encouragement. You can give, pray, mentor, witness and serve. God uses quiet encouragers to launch world-changers. You don’t need a platform, your love is your pulpit.
Are we more focused on being known, or on making Christ known? The Church doesn’t just need celebrities, it needs more Barnabases. Encouragers. Givers. Builders. Silent saints who move mountains without making noise.
LET US PRAY:
O God, who chose St. Barnabas, a man filled with faith and the Holy Spirit, to build up Your Church and bring Christ to the nations, Help us, like him, to proclaim the Gospel not only with our lips but with our lives. Make us encouragers in a discouraged world. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
