Hot Flames

Bible Reading: Matthew 21:12-17

Ava stomped off the bus and to the front door where her mom was waiting.

“I hate Mrs. Larson!”

“You hate her?” Mom asked as she opened the front door. “Those are some strong words. What happened?”

“Well, I forgot to do my homework, so Mrs. Larson took points away from the whole class and we couldn’t watch a movie today because we didn’t have enough behavior points. Then everyone was mad at me! I wish she would get hit by a bus!”

Her mom gave her a stern look, but then changed the subject. “Ava, come into the kitchen with me.” Mom walked over to the gas stove and turned on the flame. “Do you remember when we cooked together last week?”

“Of course! We made pasta on the stove, and it was so good!”

“Do you remember what I said about being careful around the gas stove?”

Ava thought for a moment. “You said I had to be careful—that fire was good for cooking, but it was also dangerous.”

“Yes. I think your feelings right now are a bit like the stove.”

“What do you mean?”

“Well, anger can be used for good—that’s called righteous anger. Like when you got angry that your friend Marissa was being bullied. Righteous anger is like how we used the fire to boil the water—it helps us identify things that are wrong and make them right. The anger Jesus felt when he saw money changers taking advantage of people in God’s temple was righteous anger. But anger can also be bad. This is anger that turns into feelings of hatred and bitterness. That would be like if I touched the fire with my bare hands. Jesus tells us to love, not hate. He reminds us that He forgave us for our sins and helps us love others, even when we feel angry at them.”

Ava was quiet for a moment. “I think I got angry because I was embarrassed,” she said. “I blamed Mrs. Larson, but really it was me who didn’t do my homework. I don’t actually want her to get hit by a bus—that would be terrible! Who would teach us science?”

“I’m glad you don’t hate your teacher,” said Mom. “Now, how about we make some pasta?” Naomi Vroegop

How About You?

Is there someone you’re angry with? Is it because of how they treated you or others? Even if you have a good reason to be angry at them, anger can be dangerous. Don’t let your anger turn to feelings of bitterness or hatred. Talk to Jesus about how you feel. Then trust Him to help you forgive that person and show them His love.

Today’s Key Verse:
Ephesians 5:2 Walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. (NIV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Love, don’t hate