Today’s Reading: Exodus 33; Exodus 34; Psalm 16; Acts 9
Scripture: Acts 9:26-28
26 When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus. 28 So Saul stayed with them and moved about freely in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord.
Observation: I love Barnabas. He is a guy that looks for the good in people. Here he hears about Saul, a recent Christian killer, but now a Christian himself, and goes to him and befriends him. He gives Saul a chance where others wrote him off as too dangerous. Because Barnabas vouches for Saul and advocates for him, Saul is accepted by the other Christians and can function within the church. Prior to this, Saul had been shunned by the Christians in Jerusalem.
Application: I think Barnabas is a great model. We sometimes write people off because of their background, their appearance, their social standing (too high or too low), or some other characteristic. It can be based on fear or some prejudice or other consideration. But God doesn't write off anyone. And I want to be like Barnabas -- giving people a chance to tell their story -- and to be a part of what God is doing.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be a Barnabas. May I always look for the good in people and believe for the best. Help me to be a collector of people that others might overlook or reject. May I be open all who are open to You, and may I present a welcoming and accepting atmosphere to all.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
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