My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, in our readings at Holy Mass, we are presented with a stark contrast between the acceptable offering to God and the destructive power of anger and resentment. In the first reading, we see Cain's jealousy and anger towards his brother Abel, which ultimately leads to the first recorded murder in human history. The story of Cain and Abel serves as a reminder that our actions have consequences, and that harboring anger and resentment can lead us down a path of destruction.
The Lord's response to Cain's anger is particularly noteworthy. He says, "Why are you so resentful and crestfallen? If you do well, you can hold up your head; but if not, sin is a demon lurking at the door: his urge is toward you, yet you can be his master." (Genesis 4:6-7) This passage suggests that our emotions and actions are within our control, and that we have the power to choose how we respond to situations and the temptations which will continue to assail us each day throughout our lives. They are all an opportunity to “do well, and hold up our head.” Whenever we resist sin out of love for God, we can “hold up our head.”
In the Gospel, we see Jesus being tested by the Pharisees, who are seeking a sign from heaven to validate his authority. Jesus' response is one of frustration and sadness, as he says, "Why does this generation seek a sign? Amen, I say to you, no sign will be given to this generation." (Mark 8:12)
The Pharisees' actions are motivated by a desire to trap Jesus and ultimately put him to death. This passage highlights the dangers of harboring anger and resentment, as it can lead us to seek to destroy others.
So, how do we allow the spirit of murder to get a hold of us? It often begins with small, seemingly insignificant actions and attitudes. We may harbor resentment towards someone who has wronged us, or we may feel jealous of someone who has been blessed in a way that we have not. If we are not careful, these feelings can grow and consume us, leading us down a path of destruction.
But there is hope. Jesus teaches us that we can overcome these feelings by choosing to love and forgive. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus says, "You have heard that it was said to the men of old, 'You shall not kill; and whoever kills shall be liable to judgment.' But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother shall be liable to the council, and whoever says, 'You fool!' shall be liable to the hell of fire." (Matthew 5:21-22)
Jesus is not saying that feeling angry is a sin, but rather that harboring anger and resentment can lead us to commit sins. He is calling us to a higher standard, one of love and forgiveness. When we choose to forgive and love, we are offering a sacrifice of praise to God, as the psalmist says. (Psalm 50:14)
So, my dear brothers and sisters, let us reflect on our own lives and actions. Are there people or situations that trigger anger and resentment within us? Let us choose to forgive and love, rather than harboring anger and resentment. Let us offer a sacrifice of praise to God, by choosing to live a life of love and forgiveness.
As we move forward, let us remember the words of Jesus, "I am the way and the truth and the life, says the Lord; no one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6) May we follow Jesus' example always, for in doing so, we will follow him straight into heaven. May God continue to bless you always.
Add comment
Comments