In those days a great number who believed turned to the Lord.
The news about them reached the ears of the Church in Jerusalem,
and they sent Barnabas to go to Antioch.
When he arrived and saw the grace of God,
he rejoiced and encouraged them all
to remain faithful to the Lord in firmness of heart,
for he was a good man, filled with the Holy Spirit and faith. (Acts 11:21b-24a)
There is not a whole lot that we know about Barnabas. For that matter, we do not know a whole lot about most of the people mentioned in the New Testament. And, for good reason. After all, the New Testament is more concerned about Jesus Christ than it is about relaying stories and/or insights into the other people mentioned.
What we do know about Barnabas is that:
1. He was sent
2. He went
That might sound like a bit of an understatement. However, think about it. How many people are called by the Lord to go into the world and give excuses not to go. Jesus even told us about some of those people in His parables. There are many who are called and sent but not as many who actually accept the call.
Some do not want to go because it will be dangerous. They are fearful of losing their lives. Others do not want to go because it will be uncomfortable or inconvenient. They are happy where they are and do not want to step out of their comfort zones.
Jesus does not want us to establish comfort zones.
Jesus wants us to go where He sends us: cheerfully, willingly, and courageously.
FAITH ACTION: Are you resisting going where the Lord wants to send you. Cheerfully give yourself to Him today.