What’s In A Nickname?
“Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means Son of Encouragement), sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles’ feet.”
-Acts 4:36-37

The name “Joseph” is such a fine name, especially for a man of Jewish descent. In Hebrew, the name means “God’s added blessing.” This was the name for the cherished son of the patriarch Jacob. So why would the apostles give Joseph a nickname like Barnabas?

This Joseph was such an encourager that a new name was in order. When the early church needed money to underwrite its ministry, he was there to make a generous donation. When Saul of Tarsus needed a friend to welcome him into the Christian church he once persecuted, it was Joseph who was that friend. When the church needed to send someone to encourage believers among the gentiles, they sent Joseph. When young Mark needed someone to believe in him and give him a second chance to serve as a missionary, Joseph encouraged him. Any wonder all of Joseph’s friends call him “Son of Encouragement”?

The church needs leadership and generosity again to underwrite its ministry. Barnabas, where are you?

PRAYER
Lord, give me the gift of generosity, that I may encourage Your work in the world through my church.