Today’s other readings are Psalm 93 and John 3: 7b-15
Today’ reading from Acts presents to us an ideal vision of the early Christian community, where all that one possesses is given over so as to be shared with the community for the good of all. This model of community living became the forerunner and guiding example of the countless female and male religious communities of the Church, such as the Sisters of St. Joseph and the Jesuits.
In the reading we are then introduced to another member of the community, a man named Joseph. He is from Cyprus and is a member of the tribe of Levi, the priestly clan of the Jewish faith at that time. He too has shared what he has, in this case, a piece of land, and placed the money at the feet of the apostles. But what is most interesting is that is that Joseph is now given a new name – Barnabas – which means “son of encouragement”.
Very quickly the newly named Barnabas becomes a fundamental figure in the early church and become partners with Paul in the mission to the Gentiles. Tradition has it that Barnabas returned to his native island where eventually he gained a martyrs’ crown.
The apostles obviously saw something in this man to give him such a name. For a person of encouragement is one who takes an upbeat attitude, always looking for the best in every situation, no matter how difficult, and is willing to help others along the way who may be struggling with weariness or discouragement.
Have you had a daughter or son of encouragement be part of your life? If so, I would like you to say a prayer of thanksgiving to God for them. For they too are doing the work of God. They too have been an essential part of your development as a child of God.