BE ANGRY BUT SLOW TO REACT

Have you ever come across people who hardly get angry? These people have a serene atmosphere around them, and they are always happy. Their happiness does not depend on others, but on what  they think of themselves. Oftentimes, we get angry because of what others have said or done to us. When this feeling of anger begins, it is good for us to be conscious of it, lest we may not be able to control our words and actions any longer. In the first reading of today, we hear St James telling us to listen to what others have said and done to us, but we should be very slow to get angry about it and act on it. Anger has destroyed a lot of people. Anger is a normal human feeling, we normally get angry when we feel that people have hurt us, what we do with that feeling is what is of concern here. St James tells us today that we cannot call ourselves Christians if we have not learnt to control our tongue and emotions. The psalmist also tells us today that only those who walk without fault; who act with justice
and speak the truth from their hearts; and those who do not slander with their tongue, will be found worthy to dwell in the kingdom of God, and they will live in his presence for ever. Uncontrolled anger and bad words to others kill more and faster than other things we count as deadly. May almighty God help us to let go off ill feelings. Amen. 

Fr Michael Osatofoh Eninlejie, MSP