January 20, Wednesday Weekday

Blessed be the Lord, my Rock!--Psalm 144:1

Mass readings:1 Samuel 17:32-33,37,40-51 / Mark 3:1-6

Righteous Anger

Scripture tells us Jesus got angry more than once and I'm glad to hear it because if it's good enough for Him, then it's good enough for me! I'm not using it as an excuse to let off steam, but I am giving myself permission to allow righteous anger to motivate me to act justly. The Pharisee's hardness of heart, mentioned in the readings, was a source of anger and anguish for Jesus.

In the same way, there are certain situations in our lives that call for anger, motivated by love. When people engage in all sorts of dehumanizing or even demonic activities, we are right to get angry at the sin, while not condemning the sinner. Sometimes anger is the best way to show that we care.

Prayer: Jesus, give me the courage and wisdom to know when righteous anger is called for.