a good man, filled with the Holy Spirit and faith

“In those days a great number who believed turned to the Lord. The news about them reached the ears of the Church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to go to Antioch. When he arrived and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced and encouraged them all to remain faithful to the Lord in firmness of heart, for he was a good man, filled with the Holy Spirit and faith.” (ACTS 11: 21-24)

We are people of faith; we were filled with the Holy Spirit at our Baptism and Confirmation, “upgraded” with the Sacrament of Matrimony (or Priesthood), so what we need to be like St. Barnabas is to be a “good people.” It is about gentleness, respect and being a gift of self; it is about protecting our identity and communicating with respect and understanding and being grateful for everything. Being “a good man” is doable, and we can start with good words to our relatives and with a smile to people we pass by.

“Let your light shine before others that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father. (Gospel Acclamation)