A Good Friend Like Barnabas
Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul.
Acts 11: 25, NIV
Barnabas was one of the followers of Jesus. When the church in Jerusalem heard that a significant number of people in Antioch believed and turned to God, they sent Barnabas to help the people there. When Barnabas arrived in Antioch, he witnessed the grace of God. He encouraged the followers and continued to minister to the people there.
While he was serving, Barnabas remembered his friend Saul. In Acts 9, it was written that he was the one who welcomed Saul and helped him. Since there was a threat for his life, Saul was sent to Tarsus. This time around, Barnabas looked for him. According to the theologians, it was possible that Barnabas intently sought Saul despite the overwhelming work he had in Antioch.
This simply means that Barnabas intentionally treated Saul with respect and love. He accepted him and accompanied him. I can’t help but think how wonderful it is to have a friend like Barnabas who’s willing to set aside the overwhelming work in the ministry and just look for his friend. I believe he was part of Saul’s journey. He was part of Saul’s victory here on earth.
Perhaps Barnabas didn’t realize that this man named Saul, also known as Paul, would become one of those disciples whom God would use to complete the Bible. Because of this verse, every time I encounter the name Paul, I also remember his friend Barnabas, the one who helped and welcomed him.
This verse is simply a reminder for us to be like Barnabas. We never really know what God will do to the people he entrusted us. It’s like a call for us to be there for those God wanted us to serve and love. It’s God telling us to be a good friend like Barnabas.
Prayer: Father God, thank you so much for the people that you allowed us to meet. Thank you for teaching us how to love and serve others. We pray that you will give us a heart that’s willing to accept and welcome the lost and broken. Please teach us how to be a good friend like Barnabas. Remind us to share the love and blessings that we received from you. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
