Today, in Matthew 9:36-38, we see Jesus’ compassion for the multitudes and His call for laborers in the harvest. This passage invites us to reflect on our role in responding to the needs of those around us and participating in the work of God’s Kingdom. Respond to the call of Christ.
Daily Devotional for December 9
“When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.'” (Matthew 9:36-38)
The Heart of Compassion and Action
Jesus’ compassionate response to the crowds’ needs is a powerful example for us, calling us to feel compassion and take action.
Recognizing the Need
Jesus saw the crowds and was moved by their state. Similarly, we are called to be observant of the needs around us, both physical and spiritual.
The Plentiful Harvest
The metaphor of the harvest speaks of the abundant opportunities to serve and minister to others. It’s an invitation to be active participants in God’s redemptive work.
The Call for Laborers
Jesus highlights the need for workers. This is a call for us to be involved in sharing the Gospel, showing compassion, and making disciples.
- Evangelization and Witness.
- One primary aspect of participating in the Lord’s harvest is through evangelization – sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ with others. This doesn’t necessarily mean only formal preaching but also living one’s life in such a way that it bears witness to the Gospel’s love, grace, and truth.
- Service and Compassion.
- Serving others, especially the marginalized, the poor, and the suffering, is vital to the Christian calling. By showing compassion and love in action, Christians embody the teachings of Christ and gather people into the fold of God’s love.
- Discipleship and Teaching.
- Guiding others in their faith journey, mentoring new believers, and teaching the truths of the Bible are ways of nurturing the seeds already planted. This aspect of the harvest involves helping others grow in their understanding and relationship with God.
- Prayer.
- Prayer is crucial in the work of the harvest. Praying for the spread of the Gospel, for the workers in the field, and for those who have not yet heard or accepted the message is a powerful way to participate in God’s work.
- Community Building.
- The Church is often described as the Body of Christ, and building up this community is part of the harvest. It involves creating a welcoming, nurturing environment where believers can grow in faith and fellowship.
Devotional for every day here: Daily Devotional
Prayer for Today
Lord Jesus, Your compassion for the crowds moves my heart. Please help me to see the needs around me with the same compassion and urgency. Inspire me to be a laborer in Your harvest. Show me how I can serve and be an instrument of Your love and grace in the lives of others. I pray for more workers in Your harvest field. Stir up hearts, Lord, to join this great and rewarding work. May Your church rise to the call to serve, share, and love. Equip me, Lord, for the tasks You have set before me. Give me the wisdom, strength, and courage to be an effective worker in Your harvest. In Your name, I pray, Amen.
Respond to the Call of Christ
Today, ask God to show you how you can be a laborer in His harvest. It could be through a kind word, a helping hand, or sharing the Gospel with someone.
My brother, may you go into this day with a heart of compassion and hands ready to serve. In every encounter, may you be an extension of Christ’s love, bringing hope and light to those around you. Amen.
