Daily Reflections - June 14, 2012

ANGER management

 

Jesus devoted a part of His teaching on anger. He saw it as an essential part of the sin of killing. He wanted to attack the problem at its root. Therefore, addressing anger would prevent a lot of killings.

Anger per se is a feeling and therefore not a sin. We feel angry because we disagree with an act that is done. We are angry because we had been offended or violated. A lot of reasons can trigger our anger. If we express our anger without resulting in any harm to ourselves or to others, it is but a natural human reaction. But if it brings harm to anyone, including oneself, it is a totally different matter and in many cases could even lead to killing oneself or another.

Before anger ends in killing or harming anyone, the Lord admonishes us to address our anger by trying to immediately reconcile our differences. He went as far as making one unworthy of making any offering or worship if he is not reconciled with his enemies. This gives us the message that forgiveness of others is a prerequisite to a good relationship with God. In the Lord’s Prayer, it is more explicit: “Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us.” Meaning, we should not ask forgiveness from God if we are not willing to forgive others.

Jesus also added the process one will go through if we do not let the courts decide on our case. He has nothing against courts of law, but even legal officers at present encourage out-of-court settlements. It not only prevents clogging of cases in the courts but also saves time, effort and  money of the persons involved. Settlement also brings more healing and satisfaction because the persons involved are the ones who agree on the terms.

We must forgive not only seven times but seventy times seven times. Yes, we should be able to express our anger, but it should not control us. And we should not let our anger linger. We must end the day at peace with everyone in anticipation of a good day ahead! Fr. Benny Tuazon

 

REFLECTION QUESTIONS: Is there anyone you’re not at peace with? How do you express and handle your anger?

 

Lord Jesus, thank You for forgiving me every time I offend You. May I find the grace, too, to forgive those who have wronged me.