Theme of the Day: The Holy Ministry Is Given by God out of Compassion for His People
“When Jesus saw the crowds, he had compassion on them” (Matthew 9:36). The Greek word translated “compassion” refers to a type of love that almost overwhelms one’s emotions. Imagine a father looking at his little girl lying in a hospital bed near death. The father’s heart aches. That father would allow the surgeon to cut any organ out of him, without anesthesia, and transplant it into his daughter, if that’s what it took to save his little girl’s life. That’s the idea behind the Greek word for “compassion.” Jesus looks at the people and is willing to do anything for them—to make any sacrifice, even the ultimate one at the cross.
In that same compassion, the Lord of the Church raises up ministers. As those ministers share his grace and mercy, Christ saves eternal lives. More, he fills those ministers with his Spirit, so that they also feel compassion for God’s people.
Matthew 9:35-10:8
Numbers 27:15-23
1 Corinthians 4:1-7
Psalm 100
899 – Lord Jesus Christ, Our Savior King
897 – Lord Jesus, You Have Come
671 – Your Body Given for Me, O Savior
660 – Here, O My Lord, I See You Face to Face
716 – O Christ, Who Called the Twelve
Prayer of the Day: Almighty, eternal God, in the Word of your apostles and prophets, you have proclaimed to us your saving will. Grant us faith to believe your promises that we may receive eternal salvation; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Gospel Acclamation: Alleluia. Ask the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into his harvest field. Alleluia.