TODAY’S GOSPEL READING
8 JULY, 2025
Matthew 9:32–38
A man was brought to Jesus, a dumb demoniac.
And when the devil was cast out, the dumb man spoke,
and the people were amazed.
‘Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel,’ they said.
But the Pharisees said,
‘It is through the prince of devils that he casts out devils.’
Jesus made a tour through all the towns and villages,
teaching in their synagogues,
proclaiming the Good News of the kingdom,
and curing all kinds of diseases and sickness.
And when he saw the crowds he felt sorry for them
because they were harassed and dejected,
like sheep without a shepherd.
Then he said to his disciples,
‘The harvest is rich but the labourers are few,
so ask the Lord of the harvest
to send labourers to his harvest.’
THE GOSPEL OF THE LORD!
REFLECTION
In this passage, Jesus continues His ministry of healing and compassion. When faced with the mute demoniac, He restores speech and sets the man free—revealing His divine authority and mercy. Despite the miraculous works, the Pharisees accuse Him of working through the prince of demons. Yet Jesus is undeterred. He sees the crowds, not with frustration but with compassion, as sheep without a shepherd. His heart breaks for their lostness, and He calls for laborers to be sent into the harvest. This reminds us that Jesus not only heals, but He also calls us to care and serve. His compassion becomes our commission.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, thank You for being the Shepherd who sees and saves the broken, the lost, and the voiceless. Fill our hearts with Your compassion for the crowds around us. Let us not be indifferent, but stirred to pray and to act. Raise up laborers for Your harvest—including us—willing to serve, love, and lead others to You. Empower us with Your Spirit, that we may speak healing, bring freedom, and reflect Your mercy in this world. Amen
