10th Week of Ordinary Time C – Wednesday – Memorial of Saint Barnabas, Apostle and Martyr

Saint Barnabas was a Levite from Cyprus, born around the first century AD. He is first mentioned in Acts 4:36-37, where he is described as a generous and supportive member of the early Christian community who sold a field and donated the proceeds to help those in need. Barnabas was a prominent figure in the early church, known for his leadership and kindness. He played a crucial role in the missionary journeys of Paul and was instrumental in establishing Christian communities.

The name Barnabas means "Son of Encouragement” and boy did he ever live up to it. In fact, his original name was Joseph, but the apostles gave him the nickname Barnabas because of his encouraging nature. In the first reading from Acts, we see Barnabas as a man full of goodness, faith, and the Holy Spirit. When the Church in Antioch experienced a great awakening, Barnabas was sent to encourage and nurture the new believers. His presence brought joy and reassurance, and he motivated others to remain faithful to the Lord with a firm heart.

The Gospel from Matthew reminds us that Jesus came to fulfill the Law and the Prophets—not to abolish them—and that obedience to God's commandments is central to true discipleship. Jesus emphasizes that those who obey and teach these commandments will be called great in the Kingdom of Heaven.

Barnabas exemplified this obedience and fidelity. His encouragement to the believers to remain faithful was rooted in his deep respect for God's law and his desire to see others live according to God’s will for their well-being and the flourishing of Christ’s reign and kingdom.

Saint Barnabas’ life was also marked by his unwavering faith which even led to his martyrdom, which according to tradition, happened in Cyprus, where he had gone to support the Christian community present there. It is said that he was martyred by being beaten to death with a staff or club, reflecting a deep commitment to proclaiming the Gospel and remaining faithful to his calling, even unto death.

We are called to emulate Barnabas in several ways. First, to be filled with goodness, faith, and the Holy Spirit, allowing these virtues to guide our lives. Second, to encourage and support others, recognizing that our words and actions can uplift those who are struggling in their faith or facing difficulties. Just as Barnabas was known as "the son of encouragement," we too can strive to be sources of hope and strength for those around us. Third, we too must continue to strive to be faithful to God’s commandments, living authentically according to His law and teaching others by our example. In this way we will know we truly love Him. Fourth, Barnabas was known for seeking unity among believers, just as he sought out Saul and brought him into the community. We too can allow the Holy Spirit within us to help foster harmony and shared purpose within our families, parishes, and communities. Finally, we must remain attentive to the Holy Spirit’s call, discerning our gifts and responding generously to God’s invitation to serve.

Let us then pray for the grace to be like Barnabas—a true disciple filled with the Holy Spirit, radiating the love and goodness of Christ, working towards unity among our brothers and sisters. May our efforts inspire others to love God, and may living by his word be the testament of our love for Him, always. Mary, Queen of Disciples, pray for us who have recourse to thee. Amen.