The answer is: Jesus

Matt 9:37

When Jesus proclaimed, "The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few," He was tapping into a very rich and relatable metaphor. Imagine a vast field of ripe grain ready to be gathered, bursting with potential but lacking the hands to reap it. This simple yet profound image resonates deeply, as it underscores the need for active participation in the world around us.

This call to labor comes at a crucial moment in the Gospel of Matthew. Right before this verse, Jesus is moved with compassion upon seeing the crowds—much like a shepherd who cares deeply for unguarded sheep. Here we see a pattern; compassion motivates action.

One interesting twist on this idea of harvest is how it echoes throughout the Hebrew Scriptures, specifically in the laws of gleaning, where the edges of one's fields were left untouched so the poor could gather food. There’s an incredible sense of communal responsibility—a reminder that we each play a part in widening the circle of support and care for others.

Moreover, the imagery of harvest has a strong New Testament resonance too, depicting spiritual growth and evangelism. When Matthew talks about harvest in the context of Jesus’s ministry, he emphasizes the urgency associated with sharing wisdom and love—a universal resource that, much like the seed that falls to the ground, can yield incredible fruit when nurtured and tended with care. The legacy of this metaphor beckons us to act, encouraging everyone toward compassion, love, and the diligent labor of lifting others up.