Jesus made a circuit of all the towns and villages. He taught in their meeting places, reported kingdom news, and healed their diseased bodies, healed their bruised and hurt lives. When he looked out over the crowds, his heart broke. So confused and aimless they were, like sheep with no shepherd. “What a huge harvest!” he said to his disciples. “How few workers!” On your knees and pray for harvest hands!”
(Matthew 9: 35 – 38)

Perhaps you entertain grand dreams of how to live out your Christian vocation. Perhaps foreign missions where you can “gather the lost sheep of the house of Israel,” or cloisters in the desert, appeal to the romantic side of your nature. Why not give your life over to God’s service in a blaze of excellent fervour? On your way to holy perfection, however, it’s always a good idea to make a stop that’s more accessible and just as worthy: right where you are. Can you love and serve the people already given to you in your family, neighbourhood, and parish? Before you dash off to save the world, share a little of that love at home.