Daily Reflections on Acts 9:26-28 (Greatness)

Olin Hay. That’s who I think of when I read the actions of Barnabas in this passage. A great man of faith and reputation humbly honored young preachers. Hay was a well known preacher, leader, writer, editor, model of faith. Yet he treated young preachers as equals and worth hearing. His acceptance and grace made one feel important and significant and part of a unique cadre of God’s leaders.

Without the intervention of Barnabas, I wonder if the early Christians would have ever accepted Paul. I wonder if he would have been set aside as a missionary by the church in Antioch. I wonder if Christianity would have spread across the globe or if Paul would have written his epistles/books of the Bible.

Although Barnabas doesn’t get credit for the expansion of Christianity or for being an author of much of the New Testament, he did play a significant role. He opened the door for Paul in Jerusalem. He brought him to Antioch to help with the teaching. He led the way on the first missionary journey. Barnabas was also the guy whose generous contribution led the way for financing the early church.

Paul gets the credit, but Barnabas made it possible. Paul’s known as the great preacher/teacher, but Barnabas created the opportunity. Paul wrote most of the New Testament, but Barnabas befriended and nurtured a former and deadly enemy of the church. Paul planted many churches throughout the known world, but Barnabas trained him.

Greatness isn’t always measured by achievement. Greatness in God’s scheme is measured by humility. Jesus talked about being last, least, a servant if you wanted to be great. Barnabas modeled true greatness through his grace and surrender. He wasn’t worried about his own needs, his own reputation, his own position of prestige or authority. He focused his life on benefiting others and God’s Kingdom.

God, I don’t want greatness according to the world’s standards. I want to be great like Barnabas. I want to be your servant, your vessel by which people experience your love, grace, forgiveness and hope. I want to be like Barnabas in seeing and fostering the potential of people.