May the Lord give you peace and health in the Holy Spirit.
It is 11th June 2024.
We celebrate the memorial of St Barnabas, Apostle.
St. Luke hails him, “for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith” (Acts 11:24). Barnabas is the one who sold his estate and laid the money at the apostles’ feet (Acts 4:34-35). He was sent as an overseer to Antioch. A companion and co-traveller to Paul. “They put fresh heart into the disciples, encouraging them to persevere in the faith” (Acts 14:22).
By investing his precious time, resources and energy, Barnabas cut out the person in Paul, the Church and Christ wanted.
What do you see in your family, the parish, and the community?
Something good and objective or the opposite.
Are we animating without animosity?
We reflect on Acts 11:21-26; 13:1-3 and Matthew 10:7-13.
Animating others without any animosity.
In the first reading, the Holy Spirit revealed to the apostles to keep someone for spreading love by preaching the Word of God.
Some of us chosen for the purpose of encouraging and consoling others. Barnabas was able to notice a unique character in Paul.
To do good we do not need an office, title, and rank rather than a heart full of love, encouragement and consolation is sufficient to reach out.
Encouragement is no longer a word, but it is a loving presence, assurance, and attitude, soaked in loving actions.
Giving hope in times of suffering is encouragement.
In every one of us there is a spring of encouraging and consoling rivulet running from within.
The more we channelize it; the more we benefit us and others. It is an ongoing willingness to be around someone to share, shine, for stand up amidst all odds.
Seeing good in others and to embrace them with human support coloured divinely.
The Gospel presents us with the missionary discourse encouraging us to be generous and docile to work for the Lord in challenging conditions of life. “You received without payment; give without payment.” (Mt.10:8). All we have today is from the generous Giver. “What do you have that you did not receive?” (1 Cor 4:7). It is by giving we bring someone closer to Jesus.
May the help us to emulate St. Barnabas and may he intercede for us all. Have a good day.
God bless you.