Thursday, June 11, 2015

Thursday, June 11, 2015 (St. Barnabas the Apostle)

Acts 9:26-31 

Luke’s second volume, the Book of Acts, features amazing accounts of the journeys, exploits and speeches of the apostles, including Saul, whose Greek name was Paul. This passage appears shortly after the story of Saul’s experience on the road to Damascus, his baptism, his preaching in Damascus, and escape from those who were seeking to kill him. In verse 26, Saul arrives in Jerusalem where he tries to join the disciples but they are terrified of him. It is Barnabas, a subsequent companion to Saul/Paul, who brings him to the apostles and explains what has happened.

This is the feast day of St. Barnabas.  According to Acts 4:36-37, Barnabas was a Levite originally named Joseph who hailed from Cyprus. He sold a field he owned and laid the proceeds at the feet of the apostles. Barnabas means “son of encouragement” and the saint is often called upon for his peacemaking abilities. The latter are evident in his mediator role between Saul/Paul and the other apostles. Barnabas is a reminder that a peacemaker needs to be a good negotiator; a trustworthy person who has demonstrated commitment, but also one who can understand more than one perspective. Canada was once known for peacemaking but sadly that reputation has dwindled. St. Barnabas … we need your help! 

- Alicia Batten