Focus

Take time to rest in the comfort of the Lord today.

Read

Reflect

I have always been told that when studying scripture, pay attention to the words And, Or, & But.   While small, these are powerful words! I love how verse 27 begins with “But Barnabus…”   Following Saul’s conversion and escape from Damascus, he arrived in Jerusalem and tried to join the disciples. However, the disciples were afraid. I would have been, too! But Barnabus…my bible notes show that Barnabus had the gift of encouragement; he saw Paul’s true heart. Despite Paul’s past, Barnabus saw who Paul for who he now was following his conversion and who God called him to be.    

It takes courage to stand against the majority. I imagine it took courage for Barnabus to reach out and bring Paul back to the disciples. What is our response? Do we measure a person by their past or do we measure them by who God has called them to be?   When God places a person with a reputation or a person who is different from us in our path, in the workplace or even at church, how will we respond?   We must remember that our lives…our actions…our responses…are some of the best sermons that will ever be preached. 

Pray

Lord, forgive me for limiting my perspective to the world’s view instead of opening my heart to Your view.   I pray that when called, I will respond like Barnabus, with encouragement and a willing heart.   Amen.