Eucharistic Gospel Reading for Sunday of Proper 6: Year A
“Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” (Matthew 9: 37 and 38)
The potential and possibility for a better community is so doable! This potential and possibility is the harvest of which Jesus speaks. We are sent into our communities to bring about the harvest of love and compassion. We are equipped to do this because our Lord Jesus has touched our souls, and not just for our sakes, but for all whom we encounter.
Jesus says “As you go, proclaim the good news, ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near” (Matthew 10:7). This is the humble approach. We teach by saying and doing what is respectful and loving. We do not return evil for evil or retaliate in any way. We walk this path humbly and remembering we are always being watched by others who are learning, and by God who is calling.
We are called to carry out this work humbly. As Jesus says, “See, I am sending you out like sheep into the midst of wolves; so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16). We should do it God’s Way rather than go out and confront people about what they believe. Let us ease our way into the midst of people and just show them a better Way, a life of harmony and respect by being the example.
It may be that this way of life seems useless at first. But we must strive to do this to the end. Of this Jesus says, “But the one who endures to the end will be saved. (Matthew 10: 22). This is spiritual labor. Remember, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” This is where I like to use the term, “No Matter What!” We must do the Lord’s work, the Lord’s Way, all the time, “No Matter What!”
As we listen to what the Spirit of God is saying to us, let us live to love and to serve, and to teach others to love and to serve, while pondering anew what the Almighty can do. John
Let us pray: (Proper 6: The Sunday closest to June 15, BCP p.230)
Keep, O Lord, your household the Church in your steadfast faith and love, that through your grace we may proclaim your truth with boldness, and minister your justice with compassion; for the sake of our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
onewhoponders 