Choosing Barnabas

Today the first reading from Acts 12:24-13:5, relates the most important missionary event of the early church. As the community of Antioch were praying, ''The Holy Spirit said, 'I want Barnabas and Paul set apart for the work to which I have called them.'' They laid their hands on them and sent them off on their first overseas mission. We know that much of Acts concentrates on Paul, but it is important to recognize the great contribution that Barnabas made to this first mission. In chapter 4 of Acts we are told that a man from Cyprus joined the community. His name was Joseph, but the apostles called him Barnabas which means ''Son of encouragement'' which describes what a supportive person he was. He sold a field that he had and gave the money to the apostles for the needs of the community. Next, we hear in chapter 11 how members of the community in Antioch were preaching to non Jewish Greek speakers. A great number of them became believers in Jesus. When the apostles in Jerusalem heard of this, they sent Barnabas to investigate. When he saw how the grace of God was working, he rejoiced and true to his name he encouraged them to remain faithful to the Lord. Then he went off to Tarsus and brought Paul to Antioch, helping the people to accept the former persecutor. Barnabas and Paul stayed for a year instructing the people, so it was no surprise when they were the two chosen to bring the Good News to other countries. May our faith in the Risen Lord help us, like Barnabas, to encourage those who are going through hard times.