Today the Church celebrates the Feast of Saint Barnabas. If there were a Biblical Hall of Fame for overlooked saints, Barnabas would surely have a place near the top.
Most Christians know the Apostle Paul. Fewer know the man who first believed in him.
After Saul’s dramatic conversion, many followers of Jesus remained understandably cautious. After all, this was the same man who had persecuted the Church. Barnabas, however, saw something different. He welcomed Saul, encouraged him, and helped introduce him to the Christian community. In many ways, Barnabas became Paul’s sponsor, mentor, and friend.
The two would eventually travel together as missionaries, helping spread the Good News throughout the Mediterranean world. Yet their partnership was not without difficulties. Acts tells us that Paul and Barnabas later disagreed over whether John Mark should accompany them on another missionary journey. The disagreement became so sharp that they parted ways, with Paul traveling with Silas and Barnabas traveling with Mark.
Most of us know what happened next. Paul’s ministry became famous. His letters fill much of the New Testament. Barnabas, meanwhile, quietly faded into the background.
But perhaps that is precisely why Barnabas remains such an important example. His ministry was never about receiving credit. It was about encouraging others, opening doors, and helping people discover their gifts. Even after parting ways, Paul and Mark were eventually reconciled. In the end, the mission of Christ proved larger than their disagreement.
That is a lesson worth remembering. Christians will not always see eye to eye. Congregations will not always agree on every decision. Yet we are called to move forward together in faith, trusting that God’s work is greater than any differences we may have.
As we gather this Sunday, June 14, at 9:30 AM, for worship and our annual congregation meeting, may we share a little of Barnabas’ spirit: encouraging one another, supporting those who serve, and working together for the sake of Christ’s mission.
Blessings,
Pastor Marc
