Shining your light

This week's Gospel (Matthew 5:13-16) is about people who act like they're sick all the time! Instead of following Jesus and trying to be happy and good, they grumble and feel sorry for themselves. They only think about what's wrong with the world -- but Jesus reminds them they don't have to be that way.

"You are the salt of the earth. But if salt loses its flavor, it's no good. You are the light of the world, and people don't hide lamps under baskets -- they put them on tables to fill the whole house with light. Let your light shine like a lamp, so everyone can see God in you!"

That was Jesus' message in the Gospel story, too. He told people not to be like salt without flavor (yuck!) or a lamp hidden under a basket that no one can see. Jesus said that if people think about the good things in life -- like feeling better after you're sick -- they would be much happier!

Jesus knew that even when you're sick, you can shine like a lamp with hope that things will be better. Then other people will see you and feel hopeful, too!

PRAYER FOR THE WEEK: Jesus, help me remember that when I'm done being sick, I'll feel better! Amen.