The year is 44 AD, and a group of believers has gathered to sing worship songs and pray together. It’s the Feast of Trumpets, and Jerusalem is bursting at the seams–every household has made room for travelers who’ve come to make sacrifices at the temple and hear the breathtaking sound of the horns being blown.

But you’re not feeling very festive as you sit with the small group of Christians that have been your lifeline these last few years. There have been persecutions, even deaths. These have been hard, lean years and there are days that you wonder if Jesus has forgotten about the church in Jerusalem.

Suddenly, the door bursts open and the church leader comes in. He’s beaming, his arm thrown around a stranger. Is this is the traveler from far-off Antioch, the one who’s come with Paul? Everyone has heard Paul’s conversion story, which spread like wildfire throughout Judea.

“This is Joseph,” the leader shares. “But everyone calls him Barnabas—Son of Encouragement.  He and Paul have brought us exciting news from their journeys. Not only that, but…well, I’ll let him tell you.”

The little rag-tag group of weary Christians gathers around the stranger, eager to hear what he has to say.

“Brothers and sisters,” Barnabas begins, his face full of joy. “I have so much to share! The Good News is spreading far and wide, and many are coming to know Jesus as their savior. And everywhere we go, people hear about you—the faithful in Jerusalem.”

All around you, people are sitting up taller and leaning forward to hear what Barnabas is saying. Is this true? It’s felt so isolated and lonely here in the last year.

“You are being prayed for in many cities! The Lord has moved people to collect a fund for you, which we hope brings relief and helps you keep going. Friends, know that you are loved by the family of Christ and that God is watching over you! You are not forgotten.”

Do you know someone who is an encourager?

A little encouragement can go such a long way in bringing hope and life back into your faith.

Barnabas is a wonderful example of biblical encouragement, and we can learn from his example. Here are some qualities of an encourager that Barnabas displayed:

•    An encourager is joyful about God’s grace and the Good News. This joy is contagious!
•    An encourager believes that people can change, and gives them a chance. Barnabas observed the change in Saul, and believed that God could     work through him despite his past.
•    An encourager is generous with both praise and resources!
•    An encourager is humble, recognizing the strengths in others and helping to launch new leaders.
•    An encourager brings energy and renewal of spirit to others, infusing hope into those who are weary.
•    An encourager is quick to praise and support the gifts of another.

Today, take a moment to encourage the encouragers in your life.

The gift of encouragement is contagious and transformational. Is there a Barnabas in your life? Maybe a teacher, a mentor, a spiritual leader? Even encouragers need encouragement from time to time. It can be hard to support others, and in the process it’s easy to become drained and feel dry yourself.

Take a moment today to let someone know how their faith and support has changed your life.  A few minutes to make a phone call, send a text, or write a card could make a world of difference. Thank a Barnabas today, and be an encourager to an encourager!