Different Harvest

Autumn…my favorite season. We do get it in south Florida – just not in vibrant color. But often the final hurricane of October will suck out much of the humidity and lower the temperatures. The sun is at a different angle in the sky. And the breezes invite long walks. It’s harvest time in the colder regions. We see the bounty at the pumpkin patches and in the stores.

For some time, I’ve been praying about a harvest of a different kind. Thinking about our country – as well as the world. “Then He said to his disciples, The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest field.” (Matthew 9:37-38 NIV)

Struggling hearts, broken families, loneliness, disease – many are ripe for the harvest. Sharing the only solution for this mess falls to us. Sure, we have many of the same struggles, but our souls know there is more. Their souls wander aimlessly, increasingly dismayed.

The last couple of years have taught me compassion at a new level. Now when I see someone who has physical pain, who has a scarf to cover their bare head, who is frail and bent over – my heart tightens and my eyes mist. I want to fix it for them, but I can’t.

Then there’s this: someone doesn’t have to have a physical ailment to be hurting. Our hearts hurt and the wounds are often deeper. There’s no urgent care that can bandage it, no treatment to cure it.

I long to find my place in this. I’m not an evangelist, I’m not an extrovert. I am quiet and reserved. It’s not in my wiring to go up to a stranger and hug them or tell them I have an answer. How about you? If you’re the opposite, then yes, don’t hold back. But what if you’re more like me?

God always has a way for His faithful to share Jesus. So, I’ve found little ways. I have a couple of resources that share prayer needs, complete with address and email. I love to write notes and encourage others. I have a stash of cards and the Holy Spirit always gives me words to share.

When someone shares a need with me or tells me of a friend or loved one in need of prayer, I don’t say I’ll pray. I say, “Let’s pray right now.” I’m hoping the Lord shows me many more ways I can be used by Him to soothe hearts and give assurance from His Word. In the meantime, I call on the Lord of the harvest in prayer, knowing that He hears and answers perfectly.