The Pastor and the People as Factors

Reflection on Today's Readings and Memorial of St. Barnabas, Thursday 11th June, 2020

Texts: Acts 11:21b-26; 13:1-3; Ps. 98:1-6; Matt. 10:7-13

Today we praise God in his saint, Barnabas, for what he has accomplished in his life. His real name was Joseph; the name Barnabas was given to him by the apostles. The name Barnabas means son of encouragement or consolation (Acts 4:36). He was a native of Cyprus. His conversion took place soon after Pentecost. Alongside with Paul, he was called an apostle (Acts 14:14). He was a generous man; he sold his possession and gave the money to the apostles (Acts 4:37). 

Today's first reading describes him as a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith. Reflection on his life and today's readings calls to mind two factors that are needed for successful pastoral ministry. 

Today's first reading shows that the success of his ministry is dependent on his goodness, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in him and his sound faith. It is written thus: "When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad; and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose; for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith. And a large company was added to the Lord". The name Barnabas also suggests that he had the gift of speaking words of exhortation. Hence, he was a man who put his gifts at the service of the gospel. The life of Barnabas bore witness to the gospel and as such got more converts. All these show that a pastor is a factor for a successful pastoral ministry. Hence, while sending his disciples on evangelizing mission, Jesus Christ told his disciples not to go with some personal belongings to avoid attachment and distraction. Doing this, Jesus prepared them for success in the mission. He also gave them authority to heal, to drive out evil spirit, to cleanse lepers and to raise the dead to enhance their success.

However, the first reading also reports that when Barnabas came to Antioch, he saw the grace of God abiding in the community. Hence, the grace of God in the life of the people is also a factor for success in pastoral ministry. Jesus Christ buttresses this in the gospel, when he says, "And if the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it; but if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you". The people need to open their hearts to receive and accommodate the word for it to make impact on them.

Lord Jesus Christ, renew the gifts of your spirit in our pastors and may heavenly dew irrigate our hearts that  your word may grow and multiply therein. Amen.

Fr. Andrew Olowomuke