The feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome serves as a poignant backdrop for reflection on Jesus’ righteous anger, as recounted in the Gospel. Jenny Kraska highlights this critical moment when Jesus cleansed the Temple, confronting the money-changers who had distorted it into a marketplace.
Channel Your Anger into Holy Zeal
In John 2:16, Jesus proclaims, “Take these out of here, and stop making my Father’s house a marketplace.” This event reveals deep emotional and spiritual truths about His dedication to what is sacred. It prompts us to consider the areas in our own lives that need renewal.
Reflecting on Our Spiritual Spaces
- What distractions clutter our prayer life?
- Which elements of greed or complacency inhibit our spiritual growth?
The Lateran Basilica symbolizes God’s presence among His followers, reminding us that the Church embodies both a physical structure and a community of believers. Each individual, as Paul states in 1 Corinthians 3:16, is a living temple of God’s Spirit. Thus, just as Jesus cleansed the Temple in Jerusalem, He invites us to purify our hearts.
The Nature of Righteous Anger
Jesus’ display of anger was rooted in divine love rather than wounded pride. His zeal aimed to restore holiness, serving as a powerful reminder in our modern context. Presently, we face desecrations of truth and human dignity amidst challenges like violence and societal polarization.
Embracing Holy Zeal
Today, we are called to transform holy anger into positive action. Righteous anger, when grounded in love, acts against injustices. It inspires advocacy for the marginalized and compels us to strive for peace. Here’s how we can channel that zeal:
- Defend what is sacred.
- Rebuild from what has been broken.
- Purify our hearts to welcome God’s presence.
In conclusion, let our zeal for God’s house and righteous anger against injustices lead to renewal in our hearts, Church, and wider communities. This Lord’s Day, may we embrace a holiness that reflects Christ’s purifying love in all we do.
