BARNABAS, THE SON OF ENCOURAGEMENT, that was the name given to a certain Jew named Joseph, who found himself one of the new group of Jews who believed that Jesus of Nazareth was the Messiah whom God had promised through the prophets of old. (Acts 4:36-37) The reason he was given that name is as obvious as the title; he was one who was known for encouraging others.
I don’t think a “club” of future Barnabas’ ever really started, but if there were such a club I would personally nominate a number of individuals that I had the pleasure of meeting this week. This group went out the way to exhibit sincere kindness, care and concern. Their manners were pleasant, their words soft-spoken, and their actions gentle. They did their best to ensure ones comfort and safety. In fact, just knowing they were nearby was encouraging to me, as well as to others.
Who are these nominees for the Barnabas Club? They are the nursing staff at Sutter Hospital who took care of my daughter Lizzie this past week. They were not just well trained professional nurses, as I know most are (especially those who call Felton Bible Church home ), but they exhibited gentleness and kindness and words meant to lift and encourage ones spirit, and to the best of their ability to alleviate my daughter’s fear. (OK, her mom and dad’s, too.)
As one who seeks to be an encourager, like Barnabas, I tried to glean some lessons from these who served my family so well. Here’s what I learned.
• Be available when needed.
• Offer answers to questions, but not more than people can handle.
• Look for the good and praise it.
• Gentle touch has a healing effect.
• When needed, call for help. (I.e. know your own limits)
• Exhibit a gentle strength.
• Speak words of comfort and hope.
I am sure these ladies were trained in this art, and yet they each seemed to sincerely offer their encouragement, and believe me, it made all the difference in the world. And thus, they get my vote for induction into the Barnabas Club.
Thanks ladies, for the gift given and the lessons learned.