HOMILY FOR THE MEMORIAL OF ST. BARNABAS (3)

HOMILY FOR THE MEMORIAL OF ST. BARNABAS

THEME: What is it about Barnabas?

BY: Rev Fr Oselumhense Anetor (Uromi Diocese)

HOMILY FOR SATURDAY JUNE 11 2022

Acts 11:21-26,13:1-3; Matt. 5:33-37

The expression, “the cup is either half full or half empty, depending on one’s perspective” has been used so much, it has become cliché. So what was so special about Barnabas? He always preferred to see the cup as half full. How else could he have sold all his possessions and given his life to Christ just like that? The first reading tells us “he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith”. Though he was originally called Joseph, the Apostles surnamed him Barnabas, which means “son of encouragement.” Why else was he sent to Antioch soon after a great number had been converted to God? Because this man was not only positive, he taught others to be positive as well.

Friends, we learn a lot from Barnabas. He said a decisive ‘yes’ to God when when he got converted to Christianity in Jerusalem. He was perhaps the first one to accept Paul after his conversion, even though others remained very reluctant. He accompanied Paul on his first missionary journey, and later went with his cousin John Mark to Cyprus, the place of his birth, to preach the good news. He was killed while pouring his life out for others. Friends, we too are called to be Apostles. We must learn to heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, and cast out demons. We must trust God completely, and always see the cup as half full. Encourage someone today, so that we can have many more YESES from men and women of goodwill.

Good morning dear. God bless your weekend. St Barnabas, pray for us!