Matthew 9:36 Seeing the crowds, He felt compassion for them, because they were distressed and downcast, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. 38 Therefore, plead with the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest.”
In this passage, we see a glimpse of Jesus' heart for the people. The passage says, “When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” Jesus, moved by the suffering and confusion of the people, turns to His disciples and says, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”
This passage is a powerful reminder of both Jesus’ deep compassion and the urgency of the mission. Jesus sees the people not as a burden, but as lost and in need of care. His heart breaks for those who are wandering, disconnected from God's love and guidance.
But notice that Jesus doesn’t just stop at compassion—He calls for action. The harvest is plentiful, meaning there are countless souls ready to receive the Gospel, but there aren’t enough workers to gather them in. This speaks to us today: the world around us is filled with people seeking hope, meaning, and salvation, but they need someone to point them to Christ.
God is inviting us to become those workers—those who go out into the fields of our communities, workplaces, and families to share the love and truth of Jesus. The need is great, but the opportunity is greater. As followers of Christ, we are called to respond to this need by praying for workers and being willing to become one of them.
Reflection Questions
Do I see the world around me with the same compassion that Jesus does?
How can I respond to the call to be a worker in the harvest field, sharing the love of Christ with those who are lost or searching?
In what areas of my life or community is God calling me to step into the harvest field and make an impact for His kingdom?
Rebecca Mumbower
Next Generation Director
Powerful thoughts and words to reflect and act upon.