Thus Joseph, who was also called by the apostles Barnabas (which means son of encouragement), a Levite, a native of Cyprus, sold a field that belonged to him and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.
Acts 4:36-37
My dear Friend, Jesus, my heart is full of joy this morning, grateful for the many, many blessings You have sent my way in the form of people. Whether it is close friends that I haven’t seen in a while, family members I see daily, or work associates who put a smile on my face, You have made sure that I know that I am loved and cared for. Especially as it pertains to helping me to keep clear in my mind why I am here and what my purpose is.
I confess that I often want to be incognito when I am elbow rubbing with folks I don’t know. But You always raise up someone who I love and who loves me to give me that gentle nudge to do right and shine in the moment, my “priest in the paint”, who reminds me of who I am, but more importantly Who You are! In them and through them I am encouraged on the path I must follow. But more importantly, I am encouraged on in joy. I see Your fingerprints on them, and Your glory rubs off them onto me! Look at You!
Thank You for loving me enough not to leave me to my own devices. Thank You for seeing the faults, shortcomings and inability that I bring to the game and not judging me or chastening me. Instead, You send me a “Barnabas” who through their love, demonstrates You love for me in a tangible way. Through them I see You watching over me, caring for me and others, and I in turn am encouraged to follow them as they follow You. Thank You, for loving me through them! Amen!