THOUGHTFUL THINGS
Forgiveness the Hope at Christmas
Forgiveness is one of the most powerful yet difficult commands found in Scripture. It reaches into the deepest wounds of the human heart and calls us to release pain, bitterness, and offense into the hands of God. While forgiveness does not erase what has happened, it brings freedom, healing, and hope to the one who chooses to forgive. Through forgiveness, God restores what hurt tried to steal and replaces despair with peace.
The Bible reminds us that forgiveness is not optional for the believer, but it is a pathway to spiritual life and renewal. Jesus taught, “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you” (Matthew 6:14, KJV). This verse reveals that forgiveness connects us directly to God’s grace. When we forgive others, we open our hearts to receive the forgiveness and mercy that God continually offers us.
Unforgiveness often chains us to the past, keeping wounds fresh and hope distant. Bitterness can quietly grow, affecting our peace, relationships, and even our health. Scripture warns us of this when it says, “Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you” (Hebrews 12:15, KJV). Forgiveness uproots that bitterness and allows hope to take its place. It frees us from carrying burdens we were never meant to hold.
Forgiveness also brings hope because it reminds us that God is still at work, even in painful circumstances. When we forgive, we trust God with justice, healing, and restoration. Romans 12:19 says, “Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord” (KJV). This assurance allows us to let go, knowing God sees every hurt and will bring His perfect justice and peace in His time.
Most importantly, forgiveness reflects the heart of Christ. We are reminded of the greatest act of forgiveness ever given: “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8, KJV). Because we have been forgiven so freely, we can extend that same grace to others. Forgiveness does not mean forgetting or excusing wrongs; it means choosing healing over hurt and hope over bitterness.
When forgiveness is embraced, hope begins to rise. Hearts soften, peace returns, and faith grows stronger. Through forgiveness, God brings beauty from brokenness and leads us forward into freedom, renewal, and lasting hope.
As we reflect on forgiveness, the Christmas season reminds us of the greatest gift ever given to mankind. At Christmas, we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ—the Savior who came wrapped in humility, grace, and mercy. He entered the world not with judgment, but with forgiveness and hope for all. “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11, KJV). His coming was God’s declaration that forgiveness was available to every heart, no matter how broken.
Christmas is a gentle invitation to lay down old hurts at the feet of the manger. Just as Christ was born to bring peace on earth, forgiveness allows peace to be born within us. When we choose to forgive, we mirror the love of Christ and make room for His presence to dwell more fully in our hearts. “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men” (Luke 2:14, KJV).
In this sacred season, may forgiveness be the gift we both receive and give. Let it heal wounded hearts, restore relationships, and rekindle hope where it has grown dim. As we remember the child born in Bethlehem, may we be reminded that His life, death, and resurrection were all rooted in love and forgiveness. This Christmas, may the light of Christ shine brightly through hearts that choose grace over resentment and hope over hurt.
Merry Christmas from The Family Church 9456 Hwy 146 N Hardin, TX. You can watch our services live via Facebook at @tfchardin.