Matthew 9:35-38 NRSVue
35Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and curing every disease and every sickness. 36When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; 38therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.”
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Some thoughts on this scripture
Reflection
In face of the helplessness and harassment that many suffer, Jesus reminds us
to turn to God. We work as though everything depended on us, but pray as
though everything depended on God. He is the Lord of the harvest. It is his
world, not ours. We do what we can, glad to be of service. But God did not
create us to help him out of a jam. The work of the world's redemption is
never complete. When we have done our best, we turn to our father in heaven
and say: /Thank you for giving me a share in this work. Now over to you,
Lord./
Reflection
The heart of Jesus is characterised by compassion. He could enter into the
lives of others, particularly the lost and the needy, and they knew he cared.
He seemed to care for them with a greater care than sometimes they had for
themselves. Sheep without a shepherd roam in circles and they may even be led
off by a false shepherd. Thus it is with us. Prayer is the field where
compassion may be sown, for those near and those far away.
Reflection
I bring to mind those who feel harassed and helpless. I pray for the
compassion that Jesus had: that I may recognise those in need around me and
be a shepherd to them.
Reflection
Jesus recognised many missed opportunities as he looked at the people around
him. I ask God to help me to recognise the rich harvest around me, that I may
use the opportunities I might otherwise miss.