A Contemplation for Holy Monday
Today is Holy Monday. As we journey into the final week of Jesus’ earthly ministry, there is much to learn. For instance, today, we see the emotion of anger Jesus displayed.
When I think of Jesus, I tend to think of him as absolutely loving, and indeed he is that, but Jesus also possessed passionate anger at times. According to Gospel accounts, such was exhibited on Holy Monday when he went into the Temple and found it full of corrupt money changers who were swindling worshipers. Jesus, full of passion for God’s house and against injustice, began overturning their tables and clearing the Temple, saying, "The Scriptures declare, 'My Temple will be a house of prayer,' but you have turned it into a den of thieves." (Luke 19:46 NIV).
Anger is a tricky secondary emotion. When expressed wrongly, it leaves a trail of destruction. This can even happen when the so-called “righteous anger” of Christ-followers is not an accurate reflection of Jesus.
For many years, I struggled with a temper, which too many times was detrimental. Anger is an area I’ve prayed about much. Today, as I think about Jesus’ angry actions in the Temple on Holy Monday, I am giving thought to when my own anger may be justified. This advice from James 1:19-20 in The Message is helpful.
Post this at all the intersections, dear friends: Lead with your ears, follow up with your tongue, and let anger straggle along in the rear. God’s righteousness doesn’t grow from human anger.
In closing, I found this Holy Monday pray on a wonderful website called Prayers + Possibilities with Kathryn Shirey*. She writes:
Almighty Father, who sent your only Son Jesus Christ to save us from our sin, show me how I can honor you and bring glory to your name, by walking in the way of Jesus. Give me grace and mercy as I try and fail, guidance when I’m not sure which way to go, and wisdom to trust you in all things. For your love brings light and life to all who seek it.
May I seek you evermore as I walk with you through this Holy Week and beyond.
Amen.
Blessings to you during Holy Week,
