“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32).
"Stephanie, tell Caleb you're sorry for hitting him and messing up his stuff." She pouts, then quietly says, "I'm sorry."
"Caleb, tell Stephanie you forgive her." He glares at her, not wanting to accept her apology. He frowns for several moments but finally says, "I forgive you, Stephanie."
This is a scenario that is often repeated in our home, with us prompting either Stephanie or Caleb to forgive the other for some wrongdoing. We learn at an early age that forgiveness does not come naturally or easily. It is human nature to strike back when someone hurts us. Yet Jesus says to "turn the other cheek" (Matthew 5:39) and to "pray for those who despitefully use you" (Luke 6:28).
At Christmas we have the tradition of exchanging gifts, and forgiveness can be one of the most precious and powerful gifts we can give or receive. The giver of forgiveness may even benefit as much as the receiver as bitterness fades and there is joy in life again.
The world received the greatest gift of all when Jesus was born. He later demonstrated the ultimate act of forgiveness when He died on the cross for us. In the shadow of the cross, we will find the strength to forgive even our worst enemies.
"Lord, please fill my heart with your Holy Spirit and your love, so I can give the gift of forgiveness freely at Christmas and throughout the year."
John and Grace Wilkinson have been members of First Baptist Nashville for eight years. Married for ten years, they are the proud parents of Caleb (7½) and Stephanie (4). At First Baptist, Grace teaches Vacation Bible School and 5th-6th grade GAs. She and John work in extended session and co-teach an adult Sunday School class. John also teaches 2nd-3rd grade RAs. He is an account manager for The HR Group, and Grace is employed as a 2nd grade teacher at Harding Academy.
The audio version of today's devotional was recorded by Harry Chapman.
