So Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they met with the church and taught a great many people. And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians. (Acts 11:25-26)

The book of Acts details the wonderful ministry of Barnabas and Paul (Saul) as they traveled to Cyprus and Asia Minor. The first time these two met was after Barnabas was sent to investigate Saul’s conversion. After connecting, they spent a year together in Antioch meeting with the new church and teaching many people. A partnership was formed and later included the mentoring of John Mark, the writer of the Gospel of Mark. Even though there would be disagreements and a parting of ways, we see evidence of reconciliation and the Lord’s ultimate plan of growing the church through these three great men.

Barnabas and Paul followed the original format of ministry instituted by Jesus with the disciples, sending them out “two by two.” In teams of two, the disciples were assigned to proclaim the kingdom of God, heal the sick, and cast out demons (Luke 9:1-6). This buddy system used in scripture is more than just preventing loneliness. Jesus promised when “two or more are gather” he is with us. So, two people praying together invite the Lord to participate (Matthew 18:20). The covenant of marriage is between two people, a man and a woman (Matthew 10:7-9) as well as personal disputes need at least two witnesses to be valid (2 Corinthians 13:1).

As we look at the future of our local nurses’ groups, expand our national fellowships, and even engaging with others in the work of international nursing priorities—we need to find a buddy! Now, I know you already have a friend or colleague, or even a partner in your fellowship. I want to challenge you to find a new buddy. Be a Barnabas and go out and find someone new to catch the vision for Christian nursing. Is there someone at work who needs the prayer and fellowship of a local nurse’s group? Or is there a Christian nurse in your church who wants to share their passion for Christ and nursing beyond the local community? Or is there a Christian nurse in your sphere of influence, or part of your local or national group who is open to how the Lord is working beyond the national borders? Now, don’t forget about the non-believers or nurses sitting on the fence of faith—you sharing how the Lord works individually, locally, and internationally to provide compassion care to all people, may be the spark that ignites them on their journey toward Christ.

Ask the Holy Spirit to help you find a buddy to partner with you in supporting nurses in providing Christ-centered compassionate care locally, nationally, and around the world.