I Know You’re Busy, But It’s Time To Get Busy For Jesus

Matthew 9:36-38 KJV

[36] 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. [37] Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; [38] Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.

Jesus had just arrived in His homeland after performing miracles in foreign lands – casting out demons, raising the dead, and giving sight to the blind. While it was great that Jesus had the power to perform such miracles, His heart was moved with compassion when He saw the multitudes in His land. They were weary and lost like sheep gone astray without a shepherd. Their need was great, yet many of them didn’t even know they were in need. They were living in spiritual darkness, unaware and unable to recognize that Jesus, their very own, had the power to change their lives.

Jesus knew that there was a spiritual hunger and need for guidance, but He also recognized that very few people were willing to work in the fields to help bring healing, restoration, and salvation to the lost and broken souls. Jesus instructed His disciples to pray for the laborers, for the harvest was plenteous, but the workers were few.  His time on earth was ending, and He wanted His disciples to take up the mantle of ministry and continue the work He had begun.

That mandate still stands today. As men and women of God, it’s time to reclaim the souls that have gone astray and share the message of salvation with those who do not know Jesus. While it is wonderful to minister to and fellowship with other believers, God has also called us to take the message of Jesus outside the church walls to reach those who are lost and in need of His love.

We don’t have to venture far beyond our comfort zone. We can start by reaching out to those in our sphere of influence: family members, friends, neighbors, and colleagues. Consider the family member struggling with addiction whom others may avoid.  You can be the one to lead them to Christ. Think about the colleague who wonders why you consistently have a smile on your face, even when the company is threatening layoffs. They need to know where your joy comes from, a man who supplies all your needs. Don’t forget your elderly neighbor next door, who complains about feeling lonely and neglected despite living alone and facing health challenges. She needs to learn about a comforter and healer who can spiritually and physically support her. Even multi-millionaires and billionaires should be reminded that money cannot save their souls.

As modern-day disciples, we are called to be witnesses for Christ. Whether it’s the single parent, the politician, the millionaire, or the child in need, everyone needs to know that there is hope. God does not show favoritism; his salvation is for everyone who believes. As the songwriter said, “Nothing is too dirty for God.” He calls us to share this message and be His hands and feet in this world.

Sometimes, all it takes is one conversation to open the door for someone to hear about the goodness of God. Share your testimony. Share how God has healed you, provided for you, and given you peace. One word, one prayer, one invitation to church could make all the difference in someone’s life.

Reflection,

As you navigate your week, be conscious of your surroundings, conversations, and interactions with others. Look for opportunities to share with someone who may be lost spiritually or in need of guidance about who God is. You might offer prayer, invite someone to church, or suggest attending Bible study. Let God lead you and be prepared to disciple and witness on his behalf.

Prayer,

Father, I thank You for saving my soul and many others. Thank You for not forgetting about us and for seeing that we were lost. In Your mercy, You led us to salvation. It is a blessing to know that You see us all the same and that salvation, deliverance, and healing are available to everyone who will receive You. We ask that You use us as disciples and guide us to those who are lost and in need of Your salvation and fresh anointing. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Be Blessed!

Harriet Lane