Read: Mark 11:15-19
He overturned the tables . . . (v. 15)
In Brené Brown’s book Atlas of the Heart, the author defines anger as “an emotion that we feel when something gets in the way of the desired outcome or when we believe there’s a violation of the way things should be.” Anger is a strong emotion and can cause harm, but Brown also says that anger can be a catalyst for change. For example, when injustices are confronted by a righteous response of anger, issues of unfairness and inequity can be addressed.
We see this kind of anger in today’s Bible reading. Jesus entered the temple and overturned the moneychanger’s tables and the seats of those who sold pigeons. What he witnessed was not right. The temple had become a marketplace. Jesus quoted Isaiah, “Is it not written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations’?” (v. 17). He accused them of turning the temple into a den of thieves. His righteous anger also pointed to the renewal he brings. No longer would animals be needed for sacrifices because Jesus would become their sacrifice. Jesus would pave the way for people to go directly into the very presence of God. Change was coming.
Have you ever been angry enough to speak out about something that you felt was unjust or wasn’t right? Don’t be afraid! Be a catalyst for good change. Jesus is with you. He will give you the courage to speak out against injustice when needed.
As you pray, ask Jesus for courage and wisdom to know when to exhibit righteous anger.
Nancy Boote, an ordained minister in the Reformed Church in America, lives in Holland, Michigan, with her husband. She serves in a variety of leadership positions within the denomination. Besides being a wife, mother, and grandmother, Nancy enjoys taking prayer walks, hiking in nature, mentoring, and has a heart for justice matters.
