Jesus is beginning to get a bit harsh. He is
threatening hellfire for those who call others a fool and judgment for those who get angry with others. Considering my road rage some days, I may be in trouble!
Today and for the rest of the week, Jesus challenges us to go much deeper than merely obeying the letter of the law. He invites us each day to look into our hearts. He reflects on anger, lust, divorce, and promises. He asksus to go beyond typical, legalistic or superficial expectations each time.
I do not think Jesus is expecting us never to get angry. Anger is a normal, healthy human response to undesirable situations. Jesus himself flips the tables at the cleansing of the temple. We do not necessarily
choose our emotional response to circumstances. But we have a choice in how we respond to them and how we deal with them in the long run. The sort of anger Jesus is talking about is the anger we harbour in ourselves. It is the refusal to think differently. It is the refusal to forgive. It is blindness to the fact that we are also imperfect.
This sort of “chosen” anger can destroy our relationships with others. It is like killing the other person because it makes it impossible to relate with them and disregards their humanity and dignity. It even kills us. Anyone holding a grudge knows how heavily this
is weighing on their soul.
Take time today to reflect on your anger. What makes you angry? How do you respond to it? Is there anyone
you are refusing to forgive? Think of that person now and pray for them. Then, allow God to bring you healing.
