Apostles weren't bored

Jesus' Apostles would understand being bored in the summer. In this week's Gospel (Mark 6:7-13), He sends them to strange places to teach people they don't know all about Him. That would make anyone feel bored and lonely!

Jesus sent out the 12 Apostles, two by two, to teach people everywhere about God. He told them not to take food, extra clothes or even money, but to depend on people along the way to help them out. The Apostles went off and taught, and cured many sick people.

That must be why Jesus sent the Apostles out two at a time -- to keep each other company. But it must have been hard for them to walk from town to town, not knowing anybody. Without money, they had to hope someone would be nice and let them sleep in a house!

If you're bored in the summer, there are lots of things you can do. The Apostles had to teach strangers about God, so they had to get to know new people. Just like them, you can look at people you might not have thought of before and try to make them your friends.

Maybe an old lady who lives next door would like someone to visit her. You might find a friend at the library. Maybe your parents will help you find a "pen pal" in another country you can write to.

While the Apostles taught about Jesus, they were learning, too. They learned to depend on other people to help them and be their friends. After a while, the Apostles were probably never bored!

PRAYER FOR THE WEEK: Jesus, help me find ways to be less bored! Amen.