The Harvest Is Plentiful

Day 13: Matthew 9:18-38

“When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.’” - Matthew 9:36-38 ESV

"The most Christian compassion is compassion to souls; it is most Christ-like." - Matthew Henry

Our reading for today is crammed with examples of healings that no modern faith healer can touch. I love how wide-ranging they are. From the ruler to the unclean woman to the two blind men to a mute demoniac, there was nothing Jesus couldn't do. No disease or affliction was outside of His ability to cure.

I also love how these healings happen in everyday settings. The backdrop was not an inspiring synagogue service with choice selections of songs from the Psalms. The lighting didn't have to be just right. The environment was earthy.

Yet, at the end of all this, Jesus declares that more laborers would be needed. He would only be in the flesh for so long. The end game was not for Jesus to stay and make this earth into heaven. In Revelation 21, we see the opposite taking place (this place will need a significant renovation by fire). Instead, Jesus sees us as part of his plan to see transformation take place right where we are (until He returns).

Are you a laborer in this harvest Jesus speaks of? Do you spend time asking God each day to send out more workers for His kingdom? There is so much work left to do!

Elizabeth Mills’ (1805-1829) lyrics of this well-known hymn are perfect to close out our time today. She only had 24 years to do the work of Jesus. How long will we have?

O land of rest, for thee I sigh!
When will the moment come
When I shall lay my armor by
And dwell in peace at home?

We'll work till Jesus comes,
We'll work till Jesus comes,
We'll work till Jesus comes,
And we'll be gathered home.