Lent
You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder,’ and whosoever murders will be in danger of the judgment. But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment. Matthew 5:21-22
Even though we should repent of our sins daily, Lent is a season when repentance is emphasized. The Ten Commandments are our guide to show us what we need to repent of. Jesus here points out that the fifth commandment, “You shall not murder, “ is broader than just physical manslaughter. It includes being angry at someone “without a cause.” Anger is the first step to bodily murder. We “murder” our neighbor at times in our heart and with our tongue. Anger seeks revenge and holds grudges, seeking to get even.
Jesus specifies that all anger is not wrong. Jesus Himself got angry at times. Anger is permitted for God because it is righteous and for a just cause. But all of us must confess we do get angry without just cause often. The Good News is that Jesus, God the Son Himself, has taken the full wrath of God due us for our violation of His commandments upon Himself on the cross. Because of that fact alone we are spared eternal punishment for our times of hatred and unjust anger.
Jesus added that before we seek forgiveness from God we must first make peace with the person we are angry with. Try to remember if you are holding any hostility toward, or have failed to help, someone in need because of your anger at him. Then repent. Make peace with that person you hold ill-will against, and help him if you can. Then go to God through Christ Jesus and seek God’s forgiveness for your bitterness.
God the Holy Ghost, help me, in gratitude to Thee for Thy forgiveness in Christ Jesus, to be slow to anger. Amen