Sunday Readings: Sirach 15.15-20; 1 Corinthians 2.6-10; Matthew 5.17-37
“So when you offer your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled with your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift.” – Matthew 5.23-24
Jesus challenges his hearers not only to keep the commandments but to deal with the daily actions that have killing effects, the false promises that betray trust, the desires that misdirect our lives. Jesus wants his followers to build communities that show forth the power Jesus reveals as God’s own–love and reconciliation.
Anger can be a harmful habit. To break a habit one needs tools for small daily reconciliations. Some newly married couples met with Pope Francis on Valentine’s Day to ask his blessing and advice. “What do I know?” he said laughingly but then offered three daily habits that can help make a marriage work: “I’m sorry.” “Thank you.” “May I, please?”
Anger can seem dangerous and unmanageable but it is also user friendly, alerting us that we have choices to make.
What helps you deal with anger?
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