December 9/First Saturday of Advent
When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few, so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.” ~ Matt 9.36-38
However you slice the Greek participles in today’s Gospel — “troubled and abandoned,” “harassed and helpless,” or “weakened and cast down” — it is clear that the crowds milling about Jesus like lost sheep needed direction and healing. And so do we. Of course, Jesus is the ultimate good shepherd who leads his flock to a place of safety. But today he makes it clear to his disciples, and to us, that his is not a one-person rescue operation. Indeed, as he notes, there seems to be a chronic labor shortage when it comes to doing good in the world. These days in particular, as we grapple with a fractious society, frightening levels of violence, an unpredictable climate, increasing political uncertainty, and a murky economic outlook, all of us qualify as eklelumenoi and errimenoi — harassed and helpless. And yet each of us can do something to help with the harvest. We can volunteer for the food pantry or the clothing bank. We can offer to pick up groceries for a homebound older person, or take the time to stop by and visit with someone who may be lonely. We can simply refrain from engaging in divisive political discussions with family members or friends. And we can – we must – continue to pray steadily and earnestly that God’s transforming power will heal the world’s many grievous ills. As we stretch out our souls in prayer during these days of preparation, let us strive to be, as British mystic Evelyn Underhill put it, “the assistants of that Good Shepherd who gives His life for the sheep.” If we can bring all of the gestures and small daily works we pursue into harmony with the will of God, we will be doing our part in the harvest.
Almighty God, Grant that I may strive to give willingly and unreservedly of myself, bearing witness to the Love that created and sustains me. Amen.
To hear the St. Thomas Choir of of Men & Boys sing “Come, Labor On!” click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H9nDoe-y02E
For today’s readings, click here: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/120923.cfm
I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy reading your Keeping Advent emails and how they always make me think of my own situation and how I can improve.
We all need to put away those “darn” phones and be present to each other. And yes the world can be a scary place but we all need to help each other out with the harvest.
You are a gifted writer and your time and effort is appreciated.
Thank you and God Bless.
Thank you, Robert — I very much appreciate this!