“The harvest indeed is great, but the laborers are few. Pray, therefore, the Lord of the harvest to send forth laborers into His harvest” (Luke 10:2).
This observation and plea of Christ applies to the Philippines in a very special way. There is such a shortage of priests in our country, that many of the Christian faithful are left without much spiritual nourishment.
The good shepherds, who should be going out to look for the lost sheep, are sometimes overwhelmed, just trying to keep track of those that are not lost. They have to provide them with good grazing grounds and clear potable water.
The Church needs many vocations. And this includes not only priests, but religious and dedicated laity, as well. What can each one of you do about it? Because you should not think that it is a problem only of the leaders of the Church. It should be everyone’s concern.
In the first place, we should pray for vocations as Our Lord advises. Ask God for it. God counts on the prayers of the good Christian faithful in order to send them pastors worthy of their prayers.
Second, we should all foster vocations. Everyone can do this by creating an environment that is conclive for heeding a divine calling, especially in the home and in the school.
The pope referred to this by saying that we should try to create “an environment of faith, generosity and service.” At home, the traditional practices of piety, such as the family rosary, the grace before and after meals, the prayer of the Angelus, can contribute to the faith of the children.
Generosity and service can be fostered by good example and by giving household responsibilities to each one. Needless to say, inputs which are negative, such as frivolous shows and readings, should be avoided in the family environment.
In school, the example of Christian faith of the teachers has a very strong impact. A teacher who prays can be a great stimulus for the young children to increase their faith in God.
We should firmly convince that following a divine call is the best thing that can ever happen to anyone. It is never a losing proposition, although it entails much self-denial.
Dedicated persons are not old bachelors or spinsters who have missed their chance. They are people in love, and they have chosen the best possible love—God Himself and His service. Their hearts are wide open to take in all persons, because they are completely free and available.
That is why parents should be generous to God with their children. If God calls a son or daughter of yours, do not be afraid of giving them up. They will bring the greatest joys in the future if their vocation is genuine and they are faithful.
And if you are a young man or woman and sense the call of God, be generous. A vocation is a divine adventure, and he who embarks upon it will have a life full of meaning, purpose and unspeakable joys.