The Compassionate Call: Answering the Prayer for Laborers

You might wonder why the world still has so many unreached people who have never heard the gospel. Have you ever thought about the role you play in God's plan to reach them? Today, we dive into a powerful message from Matthew 9:37-38, where Jesus tells 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." This message is not just for the disciples of old; it's a call to action for you and me today.

In Matthew 9, we see Jesus' deep compassion for the lost and suffering. He heals the paralytic, calls Matthew the tax collector, raises a dead girl, heals a woman with a blood issue, and gives sight to the blind. His actions are driven by a heart full of compassion. Jesus sees the crowds as "harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd" (Matthew 9:36). This compassion is the driving force behind His call for more laborers.

The main point of the sermon is clear: You are the laborer that Jesus and His disciples prayed for. The world is full of people who are spiritually harassed and helpless, and God has chosen you to bring them the hope of Christ. This isn't just a historical fact; it's a present-day reality. You are the answer to 2,000 years of prayer.

You might be wondering, "Why should I care?" The answer is simple: because Jesus cares. His heart breaks for the lost, and as His followers, our hearts should break too. The 3.4 billion people who have never heard the gospel are not just numbers; they are souls in need of the hope and love that only Jesus can provide. When you understand the depth of Jesus' compassion, you can't help but be moved to action.

The point is clear: Jesus wants your whole heart, and He wants you to be a laborer in His harvest. What will you do this week to answer His call? Will you pray, educate yourself, support missionaries, or even go and tell? The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Without taking this step, you'll miss out on what Jesus wants for you and for the world.

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your compassion and love for the lost. Stir our hearts to be laborers in Your harvest. Help us to see the world through Your eyes and to respond with action. Give us the courage to pray, support, and go where You lead. In Jesus' name, Amen.