Computers and Anger

Over the years I’ve had my share of frustration with computers. My laptop will crash at the worst possible moment. The home computer won’t load the software I need. There are times when I am trying to enter simple data and the program isn’t working. Yes, there have been many frustrating moments. Most people I know get short tempered with a computer every now and then. But in my frustration I’ve never shot my computer for misbehaving.

In April, a man by the name of Lucas Hinch was given a citation by police for discharging a weapon within city limits after he took his PC into an alley and shot it eight times. Apparently he had been having problems with the computer for months before deciding to exact revenge and execute it. Unfortunately, the computer did not survive the attack. Mr. Hinch, however, is feeling much better.

Anger is a powerful emotion. When Jesus saw how people were trying to make a profit in God’s house he was angry. Jesus threw out those who were taking advantage of the poor. He was angry at the wrong they were doing as well as at the blatant disrespect they were showing towards God. This is a ‘righteous anger’ – anger that comes from watching injustice and wrongdoing.

Our world today is filled with injustice that stirs anger in our hearts. And it should. When we read of people being sold into slavery or jailed for practicing their faith, we get angry. This type of emotion should motivate us to do something, to help others or to work towards solutions that are life giving. If things are going to change in our world then we need to be part of the solution. Perhaps it begins in prayer, talking to God about our concerns. But certainly it should lead to some kind of action. Maybe not overturning tables in church but helping in some way to see justice prevail.

“The Lord works righteousness and justice for all the oppressed.” (Psalm 103:6)

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *