Today Ps Matt preached about Barnabas, which means the son of encouragement.
It stirred me and brought back the ancient memories that was compressed and buried by the giant wheel of life.
Barnabas was the one who saw the work and grace of Christ in Saul's life. He was the one who saw beyond the sinfulness and brokenness in Saul. He saw the hand of Christ in Saul. He saw his potential and his neediness for Christ and His grace.
This has brought me to recall the early age of my Christian life. Who was my Barnabas? Who led me to Christ? Who has discipled me and not judged me when I was still mucking around even after I was saved?
I suddenly remembered those people. I wonder how they are doing now...
I also thought of the few people on whom I have had some impact. I did for them what my Barnabas-es have done for me when I was still a baby Christian. They have grown mature and continued to exert their influence on the others.
When I think about this I praise God with all my heart. It is a beautiful gift that He has given to all of us. The heart of love and grace. It doesn't come naturally in us. When CHRIST DIED ON THE CROSS FOR OUR SINS, He showed us His ultimate love for us. And He transplants this heart into us.
I am glad I have been someone's Barnabas. But if not because of today's sermon, I would have forgotten that I have done that to someone. I think this is a good thing, because ultimately we are the hands and feet of Christ, used for His glory. It is not about us, but about Him.
I will continue in this ministry of discipleship, grace and encouragement. After all, everyone is broken, everyone needs Christ.
