Be a Laborer – Reflection on Matthew 9:32-38
Once you become immersed in the desire to be guided by faith, you cannot help but notice that many seem spiritually lost. What used to be subtle indications become apparent wherever you may go. You may feel the need to do something about it beyond prayer, such as participating in a ministry. One of the facets of what it means to be a laborer that Jesus desires is to act and believe in the truth that God, as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, wants our cooperation and assistance. With Trinity guiding and providing grace, we can help ease physical and spiritual hunger and the suffering of others with prayer, compassion, mercy, peace, and love.
Jesus Heals a Mute Possessed Man by James Tissot (full resolution painting).
More details are available on the Brooklyn Museum website.
Additional Ordinary Time Reflections
Matthew 9:32-38 – Scripture*
Jesus Heals One Who Was Mute
32 After they had gone away, a demoniac who was mute was brought to him. 33 And when the demon had been cast out, the one who had been mute spoke; and the crowds were amazed and said, “Never has anything like this been seen in Israel.” 34 But the Pharisees said, “By the ruler of the demons he casts out the demons.”
The Harvest Is Great, the Laborers Few
35 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. 36 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; 38 therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.”
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel reading and considering this Matthew 9:32-38 Reflection – Be a Laborer.
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Prayer for young families:
Lord, let the young families of our communities get to know your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite the world’s distractions.
Attributions
This site has written permission to use New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) Bible for use of the Matthew 9 Bible passage.
This site follows the guidelines for image web use at the Brooklyn Museum and the Jewish Museum websites.