Second Chances

Would you give someone a second chance?

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

In today's reading from the Acts of the Apostles, we meet a man named Joseph sho sells all his property to offer it before the Apostles.  They give him the name Barnabas, meaning Son of Encouragement.

The role Barnabas played in the early church was huge, though we hardly know much about him at all.  What we do know is he convinced the followers of Jesus to accept Paul after his conversion.  He chose to give the murderer of believers a second chance.

Who would do that?

And when Paul lost faith in Mark and believed him undependable, it was Barnabas who gave Mark a second chance, taking him with him on his journey.

You would think Paul would have trusted Barnabas' judgment, having been a recipient of his support himself.

If offered a second chance, I am sure most of us would take it.  We might even be forever grateful for the kindness and forgiveness shown us.  But are we as quick to give a second chance to others?

In both instances, when Barnabas stood up for someone else, his decision had positive results.  Both times, he was right about the character and trustworthiness of the person he supported.  What gave him such confidence?

Did he know them well, or was his action guided by some other force?

I believe the Holy Spirit was involved.

When the time comes that I find myself in a similar position, capable of standing up for someone who needs a second chance, I pray the Spirit guides me to the right action.  Who knows, I might find myself supporting someone like Paul, who goes on to do amazing things.

More to come...