Matthew 9:35-38 are among my life-verses. After Jesus and His disciples walked among the harassed and helpless crowds and compassionately ministered to many people, He said to his twelve men “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send forth laborers into his harvest.” (verses 37-38 ESV) He saw people as lost sheep needing a shepherd and as a harvest ready to be brought in (John 4:35), however, there were not enough workers. In chapter ten the disciples were sent out with instructions, a warning of persecution and a promise of reward to those who would receive them. Does what happened in Matthew chapter nine and ten only apply to them?

Here is my heads-up. I will say it straight. The key to the shortage of laborers is prayer which is in God’s hand. If you are praying for laborers to be sent to the ripe fields of the world, as Jesus instructed the Twelve, then be prepared to be sent yourself as He did them. Often we are God’s answer to our own prayers. If we are sure in good conscience before the Lord of the harvest that we are not to go with the Gospel then be a sender of those who are. The great commission, as Christ gave His disciples in Matthew 28:18-20, is not a great *suggestion* or only for select churches or special followers of Jesus. His commission applies to all His disciples, therefore, we have only three options, They are: go, send or disobey.

My wife and I have served in the Philippines for almost thirty-three years with ACTION among the poorest of the poor such as street children. We remember clearly when we were called to leave our home, family, friends and church as we prayed earnestly Matthew 9:38. It was not easy with two little children but were determined to follow Jesus. There was no turning back. Then and now we are not super-stars. We are joyfully obedient. Today we have no regrets about following the Lord of the harvest. He has been totally faithful to us and His promises. He will be to you too if you resolve, by the grace of God, to obey. I know.