Advent Journey

Christmas: Healing in Christ the Saviour

“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.’” ~ Luke 2:10-11

Christmas is a time when we celebrate the good news of Jesus’ birth, God’s gift of peace, joy, and redemption to the world. These words from the angel to the shepherds remind us of the transformative power of God’s love that brings healing to every brokenness. Our Saviour’s birth wasn’t just a historical event; it was the beginning of a new reality where broken hearts, broken relationships, and wounded spirits could find healing through forgiveness and the abundant grace of God.

Forgiveness is central to the message of the gospel. Jesus came into the world to reconcile us to God and to one another. For many of us, however, forgiveness can be incredibly difficult. When others hurt us, whether through words, actions, or neglect, it can be easy to hold on to that pain. The longer we hold on to unforgiveness, the more it affects our hearts and minds, robbing us of the joy and peace that Christ offers.

There have been times when I’ve carried the weight of unforgiveness for months, even years. But when I was finally able to release that hurt to God and offer forgiveness, I experienced an inner healing that was so deep, I could almost feel it washing over me. A sense of peace filled the spaces that once held anger and resentment.

Forgiveness is not always easy, and it doesn’t always mean that the other person deserves it. But it is an act of grace. Jesus’ life and ministry exemplified forgiveness; from the cross, Jesus prayed, “Father, forgive them” (Luke 23:34). His example shows us that forgiveness is not about excusing the offense, but about choosing healing, for ourselves and for others.

Every time I find myself forgiving the other, it is as though the healing presence of Christ filled the void left by hurt. In offering forgiveness, we release both the other person and ourselves from the weight of sin and brokenness, allowing God’s redemptive love to work in ways we cannot always see.

Today, let us remember that the Saviour born in Bethlehem brings healing, not only through Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, but also through the act of forgiveness.

Rev. Dr. Ali Tote
Bishop
Saskatchewan Synod Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada | Saskatoon, SK

Prayer:

Eternally gracious God, thank You for the coming of Your Son into our world, and the healing that comes through forgiveness. Help me to release the hurts that I have been carrying and extend grace to those who have wronged me. Heal my heart, renew my joy, and let your peace flow through me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Reflection:

In Advent, Christ draws near to our wounded places. What hurt is He inviting you to release? Sit with His gentle presence. Let forgiveness soften what has hardened, and welcome the healing peace that grows when we make room for Him.