But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd. Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.” -Matthew 9:36-38 (NKJV)
The other day I received a newsletter from a friend of mine who used to be the pastor of a church here in the area of southwest Virginia. Around two years ago he was called to be the pastor of a church in Misawa, Japan, which in the northern part of that country. Based upon the pictures he has sent this is a beautiful and scenic part of Japan. My friend and his wife shared a positive report of how the Lord is blessing their ministry. As I read their newsletter I could sense the excitement over all the blessings they are experiencing in this tremendous work. The Japanese believers there are a part of the body of Christ that is growing all over the world. I think it would be wonderful to some day visit and experience first-hand the ministry in which my friend and his wife are involved.
What a blessing it is to hear reports about the spreading of the gospel all around the world. I am always encouraged when I hear about people in other countries and of other cultures coming to faith in the Lord Jesus. In many cases these courageous believers are risking their very lives to leave false religions in favor of the true gospel of Christ. This should encourage us to pray for them that they would stand firm and continue to hold fast to the true faith. We are called by our Lord to go and teach all nations the Good News that they too might come to faith in Christ.
Bear in mind that not all of us can go overseas and be missionaries. However, we can support those who go by praying for them and offering financial support. Consider also that we here in the states have a ministry in our own communities. All around us are people who have never trusted Jesus as Savior, for they have not heard the gospel. We are also surrounded by people who are discouraged and who need the hope that Jesus brings. Let us be challenged to see the world around us, including our own towns and neighborhoods, as our mission fields.
Let’s be those workers who are willing to go out into the fields and harvest souls for the kingdom of God. Pray also, as Jesus said, the Lord will send others to work in the fields alongside us. Someone you may meet today needs to hear about the salvation Christ offers.
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