Our scripture this morning is Matthew 9:36-38 (NLT).
When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. He said to his disciples, “The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.”
Jesus really doesn’t need any help from us but He calls us to be part of His work in the world. He saw what a desperate situation people faced without a relationship to the Father. He chose a small group of everyday people, many of whom were simple fishermen, and said “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!” (Matthew 4:19).
In this passage He likens our ministry of making disciples to the harvest. Like a crop, people need care and tending. In the old hymn Come, Ye Thankful People, Come we sing “Lord of harvest, grant that we wholesome grain and pure may be.” Jesus says “The harvest is great, but the workers are few”, a sad commentary on our feeble faith sharing efforts.
After His resurrection Jesus told us “Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19). This is our Great Commission, called by Jesus Himself to carry on the work of discipleship everywhere. God has a plan for each one of us, and part of that plan is to tell the world of His love.
Loving Lord, we are grateful for Your forgiveness and Your invitation to be part of the kingdom work. Bless us to go in Your name to share the Good News with everyone. Amen.
