Joel Littlefield

It is one thing to say, “God, use me.” It is another thing altogether to say, “Lord, I will labor for You in this great harvest of souls.” As we consider the work ahead, let’s explore three essential aspects: the purpose, passion, and participation required for this mission.

Purpose: Understanding the Mission

Matthew 9:35 – “And Jesus went throughout all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction.”

Jesus’ ministry extended across cities and villages, engaging with people in their daily lives. His mission involved teaching, proclaiming, and healing, demonstrating that the Kingdom message was meant for both public spaces and gathered communities.

His example challenges us: Do we take the Gospel beyond church walls? Do we share it both in structured gatherings and everyday interactions? The mission is broad, yet it calls for intentional engagement in both corporate worship and personal evangelism.

Proclamation: Sharing the Message Boldly

Jesus did not hesitate to proclaim the Gospel of the Kingdom—the Good News that the King had come, bringing salvation and victory over sin, death, and Satan. His approach teaches us that the Gospel is a message of hope to be shared with boldness, not hesitation.

There is a time for proclaiming the message openly—whether from the pulpit, in conversations, or through daily interactions. Proclaiming Christ means declaring His truth without fear or compromise.

Furthermore, Jesus taught in synagogues, reinforcing the importance of gathering for worship and instruction. Fellowship fuels mission—it equips us with the truth and strengthens us to take that truth into the world.

Passion: The Heart Behind the Mission

Matthew 9:36 – “When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.”

Compassion is at the heart of mission work. Jesus did not merely see people; He saw their need. The Greek word used for compassion here is the strongest possible term for pity—one that expresses a deep, gut-wrenching concern that moves someone to action.

Too often, we become selectively compassionate, choosing when and whom to care for. Yet, true compassion mirrors Jesus’—it sees beyond circumstances and reaches the lost with love.

Jesus described the people as sheep without a shepherd—directionless, vulnerable, and in need of truth. We see similar struggles today: people following empty philosophies, burdened by false hopes, and longing for guidance.

Participation: The Call to Action

Matthew 9:37-38 – “Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.’”

Recognizing the great need, Jesus called His disciples to pray for laborers. This call was not just about acknowledging the need but about actively seeking participation in the mission.

Every generation faces the same challenge—many souls are ready to receive the Gospel, but few are willing to labor for it. Jesus’ instruction to pray earnestly suggests that the solution is not human effort alone but divine empowerment.

The promise in John 6:39 assures us that none of God’s chosen will be lost. The harvest is certain; our role is to labor faithfully.

Promise: The Good Shepherd Leads the Way

Ezekiel 34:11-16 – “For thus says the Lord GOD: Behold, I, I myself will search for my sheep and will seek them out… I will rescue them… I will feed them… I will seek the lost, bring back the strayed, bind up the injured, and strengthen the weak.”

Jesus, the Good Shepherd, seeks the lost, rescues them, and nurtures them in His fold. The mission may be vast, but He is the one leading it.

Final Reflection

The mission is clear—its purpose is broad, its passion is rooted in Christ’s compassion, and its participation requires willing laborers.

Will you be part of this work? Will you pray for more laborers and step into the mission yourself?

The harvest is ready. The Lord of the Harvest is calling. Let us labor with confidence, knowing He leads us every step of the way.