Since I’m getting to preach this Sunday I thought I’d introduce myself to some of you who may not know me. I’m currently “Under Care” of the Presbytery, which means I’m in the process of discerning whether God is calling me into full-time ministry. So I’m always excited when I get an opportunity to preach. It always helps me to grow. I must admit though, I was a little less excited when the topic I was given from Proverbs was “Wisdom manages Anger.” You see, something else you may not know about me is that I am an expert at being angry! I have a lifetime of experience. I have learned how to allow the smallest annoyance to grow into frustration and then find it’s fullest expression by making sure everyone knows I’m mad! I even said to Dr. Silvernail: “Oh great, give the sermon on anger to the angry guy – thanks.” Everyone knows you’re not supposed to be angry, right!

So, imagine my surprise as I studied Proverbs and found out that wisdom never says don’t be angry! Of course, it does have lots to say about how we handle our anger. Turns out, even though I thought I was an expert I was completely wrong. In fact, I’m only now learning that I’m just a novice when it comes to dealing with my anger. Are you also wondering how you should handle your anger? If you are, then I hope to see you this Sunday because that’s what we’ll be talking about as I share what I’ve learned about wisdom, anger, and the power of the gospel.

See you then,
Mike VanDerLinden