The Gospel according to Matthew:

A demoniac who could not speak was brought to Jesus, and when the demon was driven out the mute man spoke.

The crowds were amazed and said, “Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel.”

But the Pharisees said, “He drives out demons by the prince of demons.”

Jesus went around to all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues,

proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom, and curing every disease and illness.

At the sight of the crowds, his heart was moved with pity 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.

Reflection At the sight of the crowds, his heart was moved with pity for them because they were troubled and abandoned.

The goodness of the heart of Jesus is made clear in these lines. His response to people afflicted, troubled and abandoned is mercy. And here He connects his mercy with the priesthood. We are implored to ask the master of the harvest for labourers in the field. We are commanded by Jesus the High Priest to pray for His priests.

May we be reminded that the vast needs of those in trouble are sometimes beyond us, but we can always choose to respond with mercy, in particular to pray for the instruments of His mercy - the priesthood. May we ever mindful that we have been commissioned by Jesus Christ to this task. Jesus, keep us faithful and give us the grace of final perseverance.