GETTING IN TROUBLE

Another kid is getting in trouble at school. As you watch the teacher scold him or her, you're probably feeling different things:

* scared, because you might have done the same thing they're in trouble for;

* sad, if the kid is a friend;

* happy (and guilty about it) because you're not the one getting told off.

Jesus would understand. In this week's Gospel (Matthew 18:21-35), He talks about watching someone get in trouble -- and remembering to feel sorry for them, rather than happy it isn't you!

When you see another kid getting told off, you know there's probably a reason. In the Gospel story, the man who owed money had good reason to be in trouble; he hadn't paid what he owed.

Just because someone gets in trouble, though, doesn't make everyone else perfect. The guy in the Gospel had no right to turn around and put another person in prison for not paying debts when he hadn't paid his -- and it's not good for you to be happy when another kid's in trouble and you're not.

The man Jesus talked about ended up in jail while he thought about that mistake. Next time you see another kid in trouble, instead of being relieved it isn't you, think about how the kid feels. It might make you remember everyone deserves a little understanding!  (09-12-02) [[In-content Ad]]