Friday October 23, 2020

Begin this new day by praying this prayer out loud. As you are able, consider kneeling as a physical expression of your commitment to Jesus as Lord of your life and the one you desire to lead you this day. Alternatively, you might consider placing a hand over your heart as you pray this prayer.

Lord, grant that I may always allow myself to be guided by You,
always follow Your plans,
and perfectly accomplish Your Holy Will.
Grant that in all things, great and small,
today and all the days of my life,
I may do whatever You require of me.
Help me respond to the slightest prompting of Your Grace,
so that I may be Your trustworthy instrument for Your honor.
May Your Will be done in time and in eternity by me,
in me, and through me. Amen.
— (St. Teresa of Avila, 16th century Carmelite nun)

Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. “In your anger do not sin” Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.
Ephesians 4:25-28

Paul doesn’t condemn anger? Isn’t anger a sin? No, certain things, situations ought to make us angry. Homelessness, injustice, oppression, abuse, inequity, etc. should make us angry. Ask, “Why am I angry?”. Is it because I’ve been offended or because something is wrong or someone else has been harmed? In the latter case, anger is appropriate. But Paul continues, “Do not let the sun go down on your anger!” Do something with it!

Advocate, work to correct the injustice, and, in love, speak the truth. This will empower, illuminate the wrong, and call for change. Stand up for the helpless and powerless. Put your anger to doing good, righting wrongs, and being the change that will bring justice.

Before the sun goes down, decide what God is calling you to do. What is your first step in righting the wrong? Pray that God will lead you there.

When you are finished with your time of reflection, close out this time with this prayer.

Oh God, hear the prayers and petitions of your servants. For Your sake, O Lord, look with favor on this dry and thirsty land. Give ear, O God, and hear; open your eyes and see the desolation of the city that bears your Name. We do not make requests of you because we are righteous, but because of Your great mercy. O Lord, listen! Oh Lord, forgive! O Lord, hear and act! For Your sake, O my God, do not delay, because your city and your people bear your name. (Daniel 9:17-19)