Midweek Devotion 2 April 2025

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Midweek Devotion for 12 June 2024

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Reading

Acts 4:36-37

Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means “son of encouragement”), sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles’ feet.

Devotion


https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-Barnabas#/media/1/53574/16398

Yesterday, 11 June, was the Feast of Saint Barnabas.  Today's artwork of St. Barnabas is a stained-glass window, 19th century; in St. Mary's Church, Bury St. Edmunds, England.  Barnabas was a bit of a trouble-shooter among the apostles.  He was sent to various places to find out what was going on--persecutions in Antioch, a famine in Jerusalem, dealing with Paul on missionary journeys.  I like how the glass portrays his studious purpose.  He is holding a book and a staff.  Barnabas has places to go in this rendering.  See more of his adventures in the Book of Acts particularly chapter 11 and following.

Perhaps most of all I like how Barnabas is portrayed as an encourager.  He is generous, selling a field and raising money for the poor.  He is very positive about what the Jesus movement is doing in Antioch.  He helps those around him find courage in the time of trial.  I remember a time as a shy, awkward, ASD person struggling to make sense of the world around me.  Social cues were so hard particularly as a teenager.  Fortunately, I had a group of folks--Herb, John, Jane, Mary, Mark and a handful whose names I've lost--who helped me find my way when I sometimes felt like giving up.  Unknown to them they were proclaiming good news and relief to a captive!

Who are your encouragers, dear reader?  Who perhaps might you encourage?  Look for opportunities to both give and receive encouragement this week.

Prayer

Grant, O God, that we may follow the example of your faithful servant Barnabas, who, seeking not his own renown but the well­being of your Church, gave generously of his life and substance for the relief of the poor and the spread of the Gospel; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. (Book of Common Prayer, p. 189)