God's kingdom is often compared to a "harvest" in the Scriptures. It is an image that perhaps meant more to other cultures, in other ages than our own. Traditionally, today's Gospel is used to preach for an increase in the response to the vocation to the priesthood and religious life. And while that idea is very much valid, there is a much more important message for all of us in the narrative. If we substitute the word "church" for "harvest" we can hear the Lord reminding us that it is by God's favor that we belong to this chosen community.
A harvest just doesn't happen . It requires work. "Church" doesn't just happen. It doesn't just pop up out of the ground. All of the different components which make up our community of faith require work, support, planning, tender care, patience and yes, honest dialog.
The church of Jesus Christ must be a community of responsible leadership and commitments. It must be a community of shared leadership between clergy and laity and shared commitment to the work of the harvest. If we are to witness to the Good News of Christ, we must do so because together we are the Church. We need to cooperate and to respond. And we must not be afraid to speak out whenever anyone gives evidence of attitudes that do not reflect the spirit of Jesus. That doesn't mean grumbling and complaining in private, but rather to speak sincerely and constructively. It means taking ownership of the Gospel. It means remembering that as baptized and sacramental people we are empowered to be alive in the Holy Spirit and to transform the world.
But just speaking words of peace in not enough. Talking about "love" or "praying for peace" is not enough. We must transform those words into action. And when we do that we become healthy and effective laborers in the harvest.
Henri Nouwen reminds us of something very significant about the use of words:
“Words are important. Without them our actions lose meaning. And without meaning we cannot live. Words can offer perspective, insight, understanding, and vision. Words can bring consolation, comfort, encouragement and hope. Words can take away fear, isolation, shame, and guilt. Words can reconcile, unite, forgive, and heal. Words can bring peace and joy, inner freedom and deep gratitude. Words, in short, can carry love on their wings. A word of love can be the greatest act of love. That is because when our words become flesh in our own lives and the lives of others, we can change the world. Jesus is the word made flesh. In him speaking and acting were one.”
