Today, the Church celebrates the Memorial of Saint Barnabas, one of the earliest Christian disciples who was well known in Jerusalem. Barnabas was actually born in Cyprus and of Jewish origin. The Acts of the Apostles tells us that news about the early Christians reached the ears of the Church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to go to Antioch (Acts 11:22).
Barnabas was overjoyed to find faith in the early Christians at Antioch. He rejoiced and encouraged them all to remain faithful to the Lord in firmness of heart (Acts 11:23). From Antioch, he travelled to Tarsus to look for Saul, and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch where the Christian community was already established.
Barnabas and Paul established a wonderful friendship and encouraged many by their own example to follow in the footsteps of the Lord. Give thanks today for the people in your life who are examples of faith for you, and ask the Lord to strengthen this gift in your heart so that you in turn can share it with others.
Have a great day.
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