There was a Levite, a native of Cyprus, Joseph, to whom the apostles gave the name Barnabas (which means “son of encouragement”). He sold a field that belonged to him, then brought the money, and laid it at the apostles feet. Acts 4:36-37

The Holy Spirit guides you with confidence, encouragement, and is your Advocate. Joseph of Cyprus has been filled with the Holy Spirit and the apostles rename him Barnabas due to the fact that his personality has been transformed by the Holy Spirit into encouragement toward others. He is Spirit led to sell a piece of land which belonged to him and then his hands lay all the money before the apostles. This is Barnabas’ hands and heart responding to the needs of others in their believer’s community, and also it is his way of encouraging others to stand fast in the faith in Christ Resurrected.

To us, the most significant fact about Jesus is His happy, radiant, loving personality. The apostles have first-hand experience of Jesus. The apostles pattern their outreach from Jesus’ own ways. They are filled with joy and love that seeks to benefit others with our Resurrected Christ within the power of the Holy Spirit. Barnabascatches The Spirit through giving, joy of living, and free expression of his faith. The apostles are teaching this community of believers to share everything– goods, money, and faith.

Giving is a hand out and a hand up. When your hands and heart are sharing with generosity and encouragement you are doing more than meeting others needs. You are actively showing others that you have an intentional interest in their faith life because you are mirroring Christ’s light of compassionate love which is grounded in your being through the Holy Spirit. Your hands and heart reach out to help, to bless, and to heal.