The Gospel reached other nations because of persecution in Jerusalem. Barnabas was a humble, faithful man who did what was right. He was generous and contributed resources to the mission of the apostles. Barnabas had a special talent and was known as the ‘Son of encouragement’. A man filled with the Holy Spirit and faith. Let us be thankful to God for every gift, graces and blessings in our lives. Like Barnabas let us work behind the scenes to share Jesus’ sacrificial love. Let us proclaim the Gospel to our nation, beginning in our homes, families, workplaces and our community. Jesus speaks of the sheep given to him by the Father; the sheep who hear his voice and follow him. John, who writes of Jesus’ body as the new Temple replacing the Temple of Jerusalem, now speaks of Jesus as “the one whom the Father has consecrated and sent into the world”. Jesus the Consecrated One, not only feeds his sheep; he also gives us eternal life.

PRAYER: Abba Father, may we learn to listen and follow the voice of the Good Shepherd. Amen.