July 12, 2026

But I don’t have a combine

Most will be familiar with Jesus statement to his disciples in John 4:35. Jesus had spoken with the woman at the well in Samaria and she was going to bring others to him. The disciples were urging him to eat but Jesus sensing the immediate opportunity didn’t want to stop for food. 

Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work. Do you not say, ‘There are yet four months, then comes the harvest’? Look, I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see that the fields are white for harvest. Already the one who reaps is receiving wages and gathering fruit for eternal life, so that sower and reaper may rejoice together.

In a similar vein we are living in a time when people are dissatisfied. Many have a nagging feeling that the generally accepted narrative offered by secular institutions and the “experts” is seriously deficient. I would submit the popularity of Jordan Peterson calling people to be responsible and self-sacrificial is evidence of this. I have mentioned before and will say here again that young people are becoming increasingly interested in religion. There is a major resurgence of debate in the public square something that for most of my adult life was viewed as somewhat distasteful and kind of off putting. 

I strongly suspect that given the current trends many could be reached with truths that until recently they would not have given time or attention to. 

I pray that with some careful thought and targeted effort Christians can find great opportunity to share the good news with those who are especially hungry for it. The conditions however are slightly difficult. The large numbers on social media are much like a thousand-acre field filled with wheat. However much a person with a scythe wanted to harvest it the task would be overwhelming. He needs a combine along with the knowledge of how to run it. Similarly churches may need to gain some new skills to take advantage of opportunities. My strong suspicion is that a well presented social media presence backed up by a loving community dedicated to God’s grace and truth could yield good results. 

~ Kevin Cleary