Saul (Paul) had been intensely persecuting the Christians and had built up a reputation for it, but after he met Jesus on the road to Damascus, his whole life was turned around. After 3 days of fasting and prayer, he became a Christian, received the Holy Spirit and was baptized. Barnabas was at first reluctant to go to meet Saul when God told him to, but God explained that Saul had a change of heart. However, when Saul went to Jerusalem, it was another story. The Christians there were afraid to take him in. He had been persecuting them so much that they didn't believe his conversion was real. Enter Barnabas. He calmly explained to the Christians at Jerusalem how Paul had been miraculously converted and had preached Jesus at Damascus. After that, they accepted him.
What a wonderful example of how brotherhood should work! If we all stuck up for each other like that, our church life could be a lot smoother. Lord, give us the brotherly love and concern of Barnabas. Help us to look out for each other's welfare. Help us to truly desire the best for each other. Help us to get along as true Christians should.
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