Dec 24th, 2020: Christmas Blessing - The Gift of Forgiveness

 Christmas Eve Contemplative Service | Sanctuary

 

Christmas Eve is a time to ponder for many reasons. It is the time for those who believe in the historical Jesus to reflect on the unique gift that God has given to humanity. It is the gift of being forgiven.


We talk about forgiveness, but we also know that it is not easy to do. Forgiveness is something we receive from God and then pass it on to others. So what does it do for us and to us?


A) Forgiveness grants us hope. The opposite of it is hatred. Hatred will tax us physically, emotionally, and spiritually. When we don't forgive, we hand over the control of our life to others. We can enter a very dark place in life where we don't feel right, we don't think clearly, and we don't anticipate life. Our spiritual well being is also compromised. Hatred is the destroyer of life.


B) Forgiveness restores beauty. It is the kind of beauty that enhances trust and commitment in our relationship with one another. When we forgive one another, we no longer see others with all of the blemishes of their lives. We can receive them as God's gifts to us.


C) Forgiveness endows growth. I have seen many people who have stopped growing as men and women because someone told them that they do not receive forgiveness for their actions. When we decide to stop growing in knowledge and wisdom, we manifest a slow death. We need to remember that God is only interested in life.  


Jeremiah 29: 11-13

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."

 

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