Denzel Washington, the world-renowned actor, spoke this spring at a college graduation:
“When I was young and started really making it as an actor, I came and talked to my mother and said, ‘Mom, did you think this was going to happen? I’d be so big and I’ll be able to take care of everybody and I can do this and I can do that.'”
Mama Washington reprimanded her son: “Oh, you did it all by yourself? I’ll tell you what you can do by yourself: Go outside and get a mop and bucket and clean these windows—you can do that by yourself, superstar.”
She said, “Boy, stop it right there, stop it right there, stop it right there!” She said, “If you only knew how many people been praying for you.” How many prayer groups she put together, how many prayer talks she gave, how many times she splashed me with holy water to save my sorry behind.” (from Michael W. Chapman, reporter)
Denzel Washington reminds us of this truth: Everyone needs someone to encourage them, pray for them, and cheer them on for this journey called life. Everyone needs a Barnabas.
Today’s message, part of the series “Friends for the Journey, is based on Acts 9:26-27, Acts 11:22-26. Discover the value of giving and receiving encouragement.
Peace,
Pastor Cathy