Matthew 9:35-10:1,5a,6-8
And Jesus went about all the cities and towns, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease, and every infirmity. And seeing the multitudes, he had compassion on them: because they were distressed, and lying like sheep that have no shepherd. Then he saith to his disciples, The harvest indeed is great, but the labourers are few. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he send forth labourers into his harvest. And having called his twelve disciples together, he gave them power over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of diseases, and all manner of infirmities. These twelve Jesus sent: commanding them, saying: Go ye not into the way of the Gentiles, and into the city of the Samaritans enter ye not. But go ye rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And going, preach, saying: The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out devils: freely have you received, freely give.
Today’s Gospel (Matthew 9:35-10:1,5a,6-8) invites us to prepare our hearts more fully for Christ and to recognize God’s faithful presence in our lives. The passage encourages us to grow in trust, prayer, and readiness to respond to God’s call. During Advent and the Christmas season, we are reminded that the Lord continually fulfills His promises, often in quiet and unexpected ways. Whether the Gospel emphasizes watchfulness, repentance, discipleship, humility, or joyful expectation, it challenges us to open our hearts to grace. May we welcome Christ with renewed faith and allow His love to guide our daily decisions, relationships, and witness to others.