Memorial of Saint Barnabas, apostle
(Acts 11:21b-26.13:1-3; Matthew 5:1-12)
The Spanish language has a short, fitting phrase to describe
St. Barnabas. He is a “santo varón”. The term means holy man, but it implies a more uncommon
virtue. A santo varón lives in peace with every good person. He spends time with God who seems to be the rock
on which to build a life of goodness toward all.
At the beginning of Acts Barnabas generously contributes to community
savings. In today’s second reading Barnabas rejoices when he encounters living
faith in Antioch. He also shows courage
in searching out Paul and zeal to go forth as a missionary. In an argument with
Paul about Mark, who once abandoned them, Barnabas shows a willingness to
forgive.
Barnabas makes a worthy model for all of us. When we feel a desire to spend a small
fortune on a non-essential, Barnabas admonishes us to live simply. When we cannot find the time to visit a sick
friend, Barnabas shows us how to make a priority of someone who is hurting. When we have trouble enduring a difficult
person, Barnabas demonstrates patient love.
