Saturday, December 6 – “The Harvest Is Plentiful”

Scripture

“Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and

proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and curing every disease and every sickness.

When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and

helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 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 9:35—10:1, 5a, 6–8

Reflection

The Gospel today gives us a glimpse into the compassionate heart of Christ. As He

moves among the people, He is not distant or detached; He is deeply moved by their

suffering. He sees not a crowd, but individuals, weary, confused, longing for guidance. Out

of this divine compassion arises His call to mission.

This moment captures the very spirit of Advent. The Lord comes into a world in

need of shepherds, of witnesses who bring His mercy, truth, and peace. Each of us, in our

own way, is sent into that harvest. We are not spectators of salvation; we are its participants.

The Lord who came once in humility now comes through the lives of those who serve.

As members of the EOHSJ, this call takes on particular depth. You share in the

Church’s mission in a tangible way, supporting the Christian presence in the Holy Land,

caring for the living stones of the faith where Christ Himself walked. Yet this work begins

not only with charity abroad but with conversion at home: hearts attuned to the voice of

the Shepherd, hands ready to serve, and lives rooted in prayer.

Advent reminds us that the Lord still looks upon His people with compassion. He

still calls, still sends, still heals. The question is whether we, His disciples, will answer with

the same generosity He showed to us.

Prayer

Lord of the harvest, open my eyes to the needs of Your people. Fill me with Your

compassion and send me forth as a laborer in Your vineyard. May my words and actions

bring hope to the weary and guide others to Your peace. Amen.

Meditation Question

Where is Christ calling me to labor in His harvest — in my family, my community,

or my mission to the Holy Land? How can I respond more generously to His call?