Daily Reflections - July 9,2013

LABORERS IN THE HARVEST

 

I feel sorry for the sheep. They seem to be the dumbest animals that ever existed! Driving out in the countryside, you’ll see them just sitting by the roadside, not moving at all. They are like goats. Unless someone guides them, they don’t know what to do. It takes one to lead for the others to follow. Sheep are easily harassed and stressed; they need to be taken great care of. A bit like us, really.

       Jesus in the Gospel today feels sorry for the people. His heart goes out to them. The people remind Him of sheep — harassed and dejected. They are truly without guidance. Many come to Him seeking wisdom and grace, healing and strength. Matthew tells us how Jesus spends His day — teaching, preaching and curing all kinds of sickness and diseases. He calls on the disciples to pray that others will take up His call and do what He did, for the harvest is rich but the laborers are few. No truer word has ever been spoken.

       Jesus takes upon Himself the title of the Good Shepherd. He knows and loves His flock. His compassionate heart reaches out to the lost and forsaken, abandoned and lonely. There is great joy in the heart of the Lord when a person gives himself to the Lord to be a worker in His vineyard. We must pray for vocations to the priesthood and the religious life.

       Jesus comes to heal and set free the people of God. For a long time, Satan had his grip on many, but Jesus loosens that grip by the power of His Word and deed. The same Jesus who went through towns and villages is that same One who walks our streets, teaches us through His Church, and proclaims the Gospel through His ministers. Fr. Brian Steele, MGL

 

REFLECTION QUESTION: If you’re still single, how open are you to entering the religious life or living as a celibate for the Lord? Pray for  vocations to the religious life and priesthood.

 

Here I am, Lord, send me. Amen.