Devotion: Concerning Anger
Concerning Anger
Please take a moment to read Matthew 5:21-26
‘You shall not murder.’ Those words have been ingrained in us in the Fifth Commandment. Nationally, the murder rate has risen by 30% in the past year. More people seem angry, and we even have a game called “Angry Birds”! Luckily, since I don’t know anyone that has been murdered nor have I murdered anyone, I thought this commandment really didn’t apply to me! But then I read more, what Jesus was saying to everyone at the Sermon on the Mount. It really does apply to me. I have broken this commandment with my words and my thoughts. I have seen others do it, too. Bullies, gossipers, angry people, and insulters have all sinned and shattered the Fifth Commandment. We used to think that “sticks and stones can break my bones, but names will never hurt me!” So not true. There is so much anger in our world.
How do we change our outrage to an outpouring of love? In her sermon from Sunday, Pastor Michelle laid out some basic steps. Bring peace to our lives by looking outside ourselves. Focus on others, serve others, let our actions be the ‘Jesus’ in us. Show grace to those who need a second chance. There are so many ways to do this. The bulletin and the church’s website are chock-full of ways we can reach out and serve. The time, talent, and treasure survey is begging for responses. In this Pandemic time, we have turned inward, but there are still many things we can do to change our outlook, our outrage.
Dear Lord, Thank you for Your love and guidance. When we feel that still, small voice call us to give to others, let us respond with love and hope. We know You want us to have a life filled with peace! Amen
Written by Cindy Swanson
Cindy and her husband, Ray, have been members of Sheridan Lutheran Church since 1978. They have three sons, Ben, Andrew and Patrick who were confirmed at Sheridan. They enjoy spending time with their grandchildren who range in age from 4-10. Cindy retired from teaching writing to middle schoolers for Lincoln Public Schools in 2014. She savors a good cup of coffee, a well-written book, a lively discussion and chocolate. She lives near a cemetery and knows each day is a gift!