The Church need more Labourers

Gospel

Matthew 9:35-10:1,5,6-8

The harvest is rich but the labourers are few

Jesusmade a tour through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the Good News of the kingdom and curing all kinds of diseases and sickness.

And when he saw the crowds he felt sorry for them because they were harassed and dejected, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is rich but the labourers are few, so ask the Lord of the harvest to send labourers to his harvest.’

He summoned his twelve disciples, and gave them authority over unclean spirits with power to cast them out and to cure all kinds of diseases and sickness. These twelve Jesus sent out, instructing them as follows: ‘Go rather to the lost sheep of the House of Israel. And as you go, proclaim that the kingdom of heaven is close at hand. Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out devils. You received without charge, give without charge.’

Short Reflection

This passage reveals the very heart of Jesus: a heart of compassion. He doesn't just see a crowd; He sees individuals who are "harassed and dejected, like sheep without a shepherd." His response to this profound need is twofold. First, He acts, meeting their immediate needs through teaching, proclamation, and healing. Second, He involves His disciples, and by extension, us. He gives them His own authority and sends them out to continue His work. The mission is urgent ("the harvest is rich"), and the grace we are given to carry it out is a gift to be shared freely, just as we freely received it.

Question for Reflection

Looking at the "harassed and dejected" in my own community, how is Jesus calling me to be an answer to the prayer for more labourers—how can I bring His healing, proclamation, or compassion to them today?

Short Prayer

Lord of the harvest, your heart is moved with pity for the lost and the suffering. Give us your eyes to see the needs around us and your compassion to respond. Empower us with your Spirit to proclaim your kingdom and to serve generously, giving freely of the love and grace we have first received from you. Amen.

Comments

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