It’s October, a time when many families take a trip to a farm or pumpkin patch. We live on an island with lots of farm land. It is fun driving by farms and seeing fields of corn and pumpkins. Next time you go to a farm and see the crops ripening, spend a few minutes thinking about the harvest in Matthew 9:35-38 that is ripe for the Kingdom of God.
Verses
The Need for Workers
Matthew 9:35-38 NIrV
35 Jesus went through all the towns and villages. He taught in their synagogues. He preached the good news of the kingdom. And he healed every illness and sickness. 36 When he saw the crowds, he felt deep concern for them. They were treated badly and were helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “The harvest is huge. But there are only a few workers. 38 So ask the Lord of the harvest to send workers out into his harvest field.”
Family Reflection
Have you ever thought about what God sees when He looks at the world? Maybe He sees a big ball with little ants walking around? Maybe He sees a wall with a TV for each of us? Or maybe He sees a huge field full of ripe, orange, pumpkins ready to be picked? Looking at Matthew 9:35-38, I can imagine the world as a big field waiting to be harvested. Those of us who know and follow Jesus are the farmers who get to go and pick the pumpkins that God has ripened through the Light of the World and the Living Water.
Family Questions for Matthew 9:35-38
- What is a harvest?
- Who are God’s workers?
- Why do you think there aren’t enough workers?
- Can you be one of God’s workers?
- What could you do to help God harvest?
Family Prayer
Dear Lord, thank You for sending Jesus to walk on the earth. Thank You that He saw people and had compassion. Thank You for wanting to be our Shepherd. Help us to see those around us as opportunities to serve You by being kind, helpful, and sharing the Good News. We love you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Family Play for Matthew 9:35-38
After reading Matthew 9:35-38, here’s a quick and easy game to play to help your kids see the importance of more workers.
You can play this inside using toys or outside using leaves or outdoor toys.
- Lay out a bunch of toys or leaves. You can pile them in the middle of the room or put them out in rows like crops, but you will have to do it for each family member plus one more time.
- Each family member individually will go and collect all the toys or leaves. Mom and dad should join in the fun, not just watch or be the timer. 😃
- Offer a small prize for the winner: M&M, chocolate milk, high five, pick the song for a dance party, pick the snack, etc.
- Time each family member “harvesting” the toys or leaves by themselves.
- Time the family “harvesting” together.
- Hopefully, the family wins together and then everyone gets to celebrate together and share the prize.
Mama Reflection
I can often feel lonely in my work for the Lord in regards to my children. And, while pouring Jesus into my girls’ lives is a huge privilege, it is also a great responsibility. But, even though the workers are few, doesn’t mean there aren’t any. In Matthew 9:38 Jesus said, “So ask the Lord of the harvest to send workers out into his harvest field.”
For years my husband and I prayed for Christian friends that we could do life with. Friends that would love our kids like their own. Friends that would want us to love their kids, too. We prayed for fellowship, accountability, support, and encouragement. We prayed for years for these friends. It took a while, but God answered!
The Lord of the Harvest wants to draw your kids to Himself. He wants you to have people in your life to work alongside of you for the Kingdom. Pray that He will surround your kids and your family with others who will point them to Jesus. He will answer.
Mama Questions for Matthew 9:35-38
- Do you see your family as a harvest for the Kingdom of God?
- Do you have friends, co-workers, or acquaintances who are ready to harvest for the Lord?
- Who has God provided for you to work alongside?
- What ways can you model being one of God’s workers to your kids?
- What ways can you and your family work for God together to usher in the Kingdom of God?
Mama Prayer
Lord, I thank You for the amazing privilege of pointing my kids to You, but it can be lonely and overwhelming. Please place people in my life to work alongside me (and my husband) as I do my best to invite my children into the Kingdom. Guide me to others that need me in their lives, as well. Then help us, as a family, to see Your harvest in our community and do the work that You have called us to. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Family Bible Experience
Please continue to join us for more playful family devotions weekly. It’s one of many playful ways you can introduce your kids to Jesus. If you are just getting started check out this introductory post or this guest post I did on Baby Devotions.
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