The disciples had seen many people putting their faith in Jesus. Like lost sheep, the crowds who responded to His good news, were amazed that Jesus was the compassionate shepherd who came to find them (Matthew 9:35-36) and make them secure in his love. Wherever the disciples went it was the same. One day, while he was watching masses of people coming to Him, Jesus told the disciples that many more could come to Him but they needed help.

The waves of people coming to Jesus looked like a field of ripe grain moving in the wind. It was a harvest-in-waiting. But who would bring in the harvest? Jesus said that the disciples should pray to Father God. What should they pray? Simply that He would send out workers to bring in the harvest. Jesus did not invite the disciples and others to volunteer to gather the people to God - but to ask Father God to commission workers.

The words 'send out' in Greek, is a strong verb. It was the same word used to expel or cast out demons. It means 'to throw out with force', in the same way in which a missile is launched. Like a missile, the harvest workers do not negotiate a contract or volunteer to help; they are sent off under the authority of God and through His power. It is not their choice but His commission. Failure to go is not a reasoned choice but disobedience.

God's Kingdom will continue to grow until the Lord is known all over the world (Habakkuk 2:14); and for that to happen, God will commission His workers. The disciples were in training to be sent out (Matthew 28:18-20); commissioned to be gospel workers, telling the world that the Jesus is God's promised Saviour and urging everybody to put their trust in Him. After the apostles, many others have been commissioned and very many more have come to Christ. If you know Him, you are also a part of His workforce, responsible to tell those around you that only Jesus has the power to save. Sharing the gospel with family, friends and colleagues is an essential part of your calling too. Fulfil your commission today!