Forward Movement is an official, non-profit agency of the Episcopal Church whose mission is to create compelling content for Christian living. Since 1935 we have published the quarterly devotional Forward Day by Day, as well as pamphlets, booklets, and books that encourage and nourish people in their lives of prayer and faith.
THURSDAY, June 11 Saint Barnabas
Acts 4:36-37. There was a Levite, a native of Cyprus, Joseph, to whom the apostles gave the name Barnabas (which means "son of encouragement"). He sold a field that belonged to him, then brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet.
Today we honor Barnabas, born Joseph, a Levite (Jew and temple assistant), from Cyprus (the Diaspora), who sold a field, giving the money to the apostles, an act immediately contrasted with the story of Ananias and Sapphira. Barnabas clearly gave all.
Barnabas is next mentioned in Acts 9:27. Saul, having had his dramatic conversion, wants to join the apostles, but they are afraid. Barnabas testifies to the sincerity of Saul (now renamed Paul).
It is Barnabas who invites Paul to work with him, and for some time they work as a team. Then they argue over Mark, a former deserter. Barnabas stands up for Mark; the team splits, Paul to receive credit for spreading Christianity, Barnabas to recede into soft focus.
Who was Barnabas? A faith-filled saint who gave all. An encourager of Paul and Mark. A courageous man daring to disagree with authority. A good man full of the Holy Spirit (Acts 11:24). A quiet man hearing the voice of God in his heart.
PRAY for the Diocese of Grahamstown (Southern Africa)
Ps 112; Isaiah 42:5-12; Acts 11:19-30; 13:1-3; Matthew 10:7-16
View the daily Lectionary Readings at Satucket.com.
Or view the Bible passages at Biblegateway.com.
Check out Lent Madness -- daily devotions with the saints that are fun and informative.
Download the new Readers' Guide for the February Forward Day by Day! Updated monthly.
Claim Your Free Gift Now! Simply subscribe to our e-news by using the form below. You will then be able to download our "Ten Ways to Pray" ebook!
Be sure to confirm your preferences and check your email after subscribing. The link to your free gift is found in your "Welcome" email.
TrackBack URI for this entry
Subscribe to this comment's feed
Show/hide comments
Show/hide comment form
