Jesus changes His plans

Kids get stuck doing a lot of things they don't want to do. Your mom says, "We're going shopping!" You can't stay home alone, so you have to go along. Even if you have fun with your family, you still wish you didn't have to go wherever you're told!

Jesus and the Apostles had the same kind of problem. When they tried to do something on their own, people followed them and they had to change their plans. In this week's Gospel (Mark 6:30-34), Jesus talks about it.

The Apostles came back from teaching people about Jesus. It had been a long trip, and they were tired. "Let's go rest by ourselves," Jesus said. But lots of people followed them. Jesus felt sorry for those who wanted to learn from Him: They were like sheep without a shepherd to lead them. So He sat down and started teaching them about God.

If you're not in school or busy with something else, it's fun to plan your day: playing with your friends, drawing, watching TV. It's not as much fun when your family changes your plans and makes you go with them!

When the Apostles came home, they were tired out. It sounded great to them to just spend some time with Jesus, their best friend. Instead, people bothered them and Jesus to teach more about God, and wouldn't leave them alone! They must have been angry at first that their plans were changed.

Even if you'd rather stay home, going out with your family can be fun. You get to pick the cereal you want at the grocery store, explore the mall or see relatives. When Jesus felt sorry for the people following Him and the Apostles, He decided to teach them instead of being alone with His friends.

Even though it wasn't what Jesus planned to do, it must have felt good to know He was helping people. Like you, Jesus gave up playing with His friends that time -- but He spent time with the "family" of God's people!

PRAYER FOR THE WEEK: Jesus, help me to have fun even when my plans change. Amen!

(07-17-97)

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