When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad ... he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith ...

Acts 11:23-24

One day you are helping with the youth group, and the next they are helping you. As I get into the November of my life, I have tried to figure out how to work graciously and effectively with the changes from helper to helpee.

I have rediscovered Barnabas. He was a giver, a friend, and most importantly, an encourager. We all need encouragement — a prayer, a note, a phone call, an invitation to come over, have a chat over tea, coffee, and a bakery goodie.

Jesus was an encourager. He healed, forgave, supplied food to the hungry, enjoyed time with friends, and encouraged them with promises. “If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself” (John 14:10).

Elise Koenemann
New Haven, IN

Spirit of God, encourage me to be an encourager. Amen.

Reflect: How can you be a Barnabas today?

Read: Acts 9:23-30 and Acts 15:22-25