Jesus said to his disciples, "The harvest is so great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send out more workers for his fields." (Matthew 9:37-38 NLT)
If Jesus were to place an advert in the Jerusalem Post it would look something like this: "Men and women wanted for difficult task. You will be misunderstood, even by those working with you. You will face constant attacks from an invisible enemy. You will be maligned by the media, accused of being an extremist, labeled as a fundamentalist, and shunned by your fellowman. You may not see the results of your labor, and little recognition can be expected. It may cost you your home, family, ambitions, even your life. Faint in heart need not apply."
How many from today's Christian community would apply? Would there be a long line waiting to crash the doors once they were opened? I'm afraid the applicants would be few and far between. What has happened to the missionary fervor that existed a century ago? Where are those who are willing to sacrifice and suffer hardships for the sake of the gospel. Has the church turned inward and become soft? Are our youth no longer being challenged and trained to serve? Have we abandoned the "great commission?"
The harvest fields are still white and opportunities abound for meaningful service. Many missionaries are nearing retirement age, and replacements are needed to carry on the work. Let's all pray that the Lord of the harvest will raise up the necessary applicants to reap the harvest before it all spoils.
Thought for the Day: Helpers are needed and only God can raise them up.
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