Today, the Church presents us with a powerful Gospel reading from the book of Matthew 9:36-10:8. In these verses, we encounter Jesus filled with compassion for the crowds, who are like sheep without a shepherd. Jesus’ response to their plight reveals not only his deep love and concern for humanity but also his invitation to each one of us to join in his mission of mercy and healing.

The Gospel passage begins with the words, “When Jesus saw the crowds he felt sorry for them because they were harassed and dejected, like sheep without a shepherd.” These words paint a vivid picture of the state of humanity, lost and searching for guidance and meaning. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, looks upon us with tender love, recognising our struggles and our need for his saving grace.

Moved by compassion, Jesus turns to his disciples and says, “The harvest is rich but the labourers are few, so ask the Lord of the harvest to send labourers to his harvest.” Jesus acknowledges the abundance of souls waiting to be touched by his message of hope and redemption. He calls upon his disciples to become labourers in the harvest, to actively participate in the mission of proclaiming the Kingdom of God.

Each one of us, by virtue of our baptism, is called to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. We are invited to share in his mission of bringing the Good News to others, to be instruments of his love and mercy in a world that so desperately needs it. We are called to be labourers in his harvest, to go out into the world and make a difference in the lives of those we encounter.

However, Jesus does not send his disciples out unprepared. In the following verses, he gives them specific instructions and authority to heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, and cast out demons. Jesus empowers his disciples with the same authority that he possesses, enabling them to carry out their mission effectively.

As we reflect on these words, we must recognise that Jesus is still calling us today. He is calling us to be his hands and feet, to bring healing and restoration to a broken world. Like the disciples, we are given the authority, not just to perform physical miracles, but also to offer the healing balm of compassion, forgiveness, and love to those in need.

Pope Francis’s message on Mission Day 2022 states:
“Every Christian is called to be a missionary and witness to Christ. And the Church, the community of Christ’s disciples, has no other mission than that of bringing the Gospel to the entire world by bearing witness to Christ. To evangelize is the very identity of the Church.”

The world around us is still filled with people who are harassed and helpless, searching for meaning and purpose. We encounter them in our families, our communities, our workplaces, and our neighbourhoods. It is our mission as disciples of Jesus to be the shepherd’s voice, guiding them towards the loving embrace of our Saviour.

“In evangelisation, the example of a Christian life and the proclamation of Christ are inseparable. One is at the service of the other.” (Pope Francis, Oct. 2022)

Let us take a moment to reflect on how we can respond to this call. How can we be evangelisers, labourers in the harvest, bringing hope, healing, and compassion to those around us? It may be through a simple act of kindness, a listening ear, a word of encouragement, or a prayer offered with sincerity.

May we never underestimate the impact of our actions, no matter how small they may seem. Like ripples in a pond, they can spread far and wide, touching hearts and souls in ways we may never fully comprehend. Remember, Actions speak louder than words; let your words teach and your actions speak.” (St. Anthony of Padua)

Let us, therefore, pray for the grace to be compassionate like our Lord Jesus, to be labourers in his harvest, and to bring his light into the lives of those we encounter.

May the Holy Spirit guide us and empower us as we go forth, that we may be faithful disciples, ever ready to respond to the call of our Good Shepherd.

May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the Love of God, and the Communion of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and forever. Amen.

Have a lovely Sunday

~ Fr. James Anyaegbu