Matthew 9:36-38

Scripture: Matthew 9:36 -38 But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.

Observation: The scripture is probably one of the most well known when it comes to missions, and certainly one of the dearest to my heart. But there is something deeper here than just laborers being sent out... There is a call to ALL Christians. The definition of a Christian (according to Websters 1828 American Dictionary of the English Language) is:

A real disciple of Christ; one who believes in the truth of the Christian religion, and studies to follow the example, and obey the precepts, of Christ; a believer in Christ who is characterized by real piety.

Notice here that a Christian is one who believes the truth, studies to follow and obey the precept of Christ... We are led by Christ's example... and in this section of scripture, He did more than just tell us to pray. The bible says Jesus was moved with compassion. He didn't just stand idly by... He let it affect Him.

Application: Everyday in my life, the thought or topic comes up that I am a 'Christian'... in a worldly sense, people are saying that I believe in God... but as a saved-by-the-blood, born again, bible believing woman, I know that it mean's so much more. I don't merely believe in God (In James 2:19, the bible says even the devils believe.) I owe everything to Him... In love, He sent His perfect Son to die a cruel death on a cross so that my sins could be paid for. Jesus Christ left everything He knew... His throne and the glory of heaven, to suffer and die for someone as worthless as me. Being called a 'Christian' is a term worth so much to me... It mean's that I have the privilege and the duty to show Christ in and through my life. It mean's that I am recognized as being 'like Christ' and I can't think of a higher honor, or a greater responsibility.

Jesus Christ is my example for everything. In this scripture, He didn't just look upon the multitudes and comment quietly to the disciples, He didn't say 'Wow, I wish I could help' and He didn't avert His eyes to their struggles. He was moved... He let it affect Him. And the multitudes that He saw were those of His own country (Matthew 9:1) they were not the 'under-privileged, under developed countries and villages' that we see on the TV. They were His friends, family, neighbors and community members.

When I look around at those in my country that are weary with the worldly burdens, that are scattered from from my loving Saviour, and that are fainting from the trials in this life, I want to be like Jesus. I want to be moved with compassion and I want to tell them of the hope, rest and peace that my wonderful Saviour has given me... the same hope that He is offering to them. I want to be one of those labourers.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I can not thank you enough for all that you have done in my life. I look back and I remember fainting from the trials and scattered abroad in this world... and I remember that day that You saved my soul and gave me a peace that the world can never understand. Thank you Lord... I owe everything to You. Lord, help me to be compassionate to others who may be in the same place I was when You saved me. Help me to both show them, and tell them of Your love and saving grace. Help me to never forget that without the compassion of another Christian, I would not have been led to the cross of Calvary. Lord, please, use my life to lead others to You. In Jesus name, Amen.