Barnabas
was originally Joseph and was named Barnabas by the Apostles probably because
of his success as a Preacher. The name was interpreted to mean “son of
exhortation or consolation”, though this interpretation is disputed by some.
According
to Acts 4:36-37, it seems that he was a convert to Christianity shortly after
Pentecost in around 29 or 30 C.E. and immediately sold his property and donated
the proceeds of the sale to the Church
Though
nothing is recorded of Barnabas for some years, he evidently acquired during
this period a high position in the Church.
The Gospel text for the feast is from
the Mission Discourse of Matthew which contains the instructions for Mission.
Three
points may be noticed. The first is that mission is not only words but also
action. Jesus sends the disciples not only to preach but also to heal. The
second is that Jesus provides a strategy for mission which may be summarised in
one word namely, DETACHMENT. The call is to detachment from anything, which
will hold a person up or prevent him or her from engaging in mission. The third
is that Jesus calls the disciples from a detachment even from the outcome of
mission. They must not be concerned about the results or the fruits, but simply
do what needs to be done.
Often,
too much of focus on the results of our actions do not allow us to focus on the
action itself. Consequently, our action is neither effective nor efficacious.
If we continue to keep in mind that the Kingdom is not ours but His and we are
only called to do our best in striving to make this kingdom a reality in the
lives of others, then our action will be both effective and efficacious.
Detachment even from the results of our action is an indication that we are
aware that God is always in control.
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