The Rev. Minna Bothwell

As the calendar turns to a new year, many of us reflect on the past and make resolutions for the future. Among the many goals we might set, one stands out as both deeply personal and spiritually transformative: forgiveness. The practice of forgiveness—of others and of ourselves—is foundational to a life of faith and has profound implications for our spiritual, emotional, and even physical well-being.

Biblical Forgiveness
The Bible offers numerous examples of forgiveness as a central tenet of faith. Jesus’ teachings are saturated with the call to forgive. In Matthew 18:21-22, Peter asks Jesus how many times he should forgive someone who sins against him. “As many as seven times?” Peter ventures. Jesus’ response immeasurably expands the scope of forgiveness: “Not seven times, but, I tell you, seventy-seven times.” This hyperbolic figure underscores the limitless nature of forgiveness, reflecting God’s boundless grace.

Perhaps one of the most profound moments of forgiveness in Scripture is Jesus’ plea from the cross: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). Even in the face of unimaginable suffering, Jesus models forgiveness as the ultimate expression of love and grace.

Yet, forgiveness is not always something we can easily offer. Sometimes, the pain is too deep, the wounds too fresh. In those moments, it’s important to remember that we do not accomplish forgiveness through sheer willpower. Even when we cannot forgive, we can hand our hurt over to God, trusting that God’s grace is big enough to carry it. Simply recognizing that we are not ready to forgive can be an act of faith, a way of leaning on God’s strength when ours feels insufficient.

Forgiveness in a complex world
As we enter a new year, we cannot ignore the overwhelming challenges of our current world. In a time of heightened political division, many people are grappling with profound injustices—needs unmet, freedoms threatened, and communities marginalized. The call to forgiveness in such a climate feels particularly heavy. How do we forgive in a world where systemic harm persists?

Forgiveness in this context does not mean accepting or excusing injustice. Instead, it is an act of resistance against bitterness and despair. Forgiveness allows us to free ourselves from the corrosive power of anger while remaining steadfast in our commitment to justice. It gives us the clarity to act, not out of hatred, but out of love and the desire for a better world.

At the same time, extending this forgiveness to ourselves is essential. For many, the political climate feels overwhelming, leaving us to question if we are doing enough. Are we speaking out enough? Advocating enough? Giving enough? This constant self-criticism can lead to burnout and hopelessness. Forgiving ourselves for our perceived shortcomings can restore our energy and renew our resolve to work for change in sustainable and impactful ways.

The science of forgiveness
While forgiveness is often discussed in spiritual terms, science underscores its profound impact on mental and physical well-being. Researchers have found that forgiveness is closely tied to reduced stress, improved mental health, and even better physical health. Dr. Everett Worthington, a leading researcher on forgiveness, describes it as “a strength of character that helps people deal with interpersonal transgressions, emotional pain, and injustices.” When we forgive, we release ourselves from the toxic effects of resentment, which can harm both our minds and bodies.

Holding on to anger and grudges has been shown to increase levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, leading to physical effects like high blood pressure and weakened immune function. On the other hand, studies indicate that forgiveness can lead to lower levels of stress and anxiety. According to a 2016 study published in the Journal of Health Psychology, those who practiced forgiveness reported lower chronic stress levels, contributing to better overall physical health.

By choosing forgiveness, we foster resilience and create space for deeper connections with ourselves, others and God.

Forgiveness and the New Year
As we embrace the beginning of a new year, forgiveness offers us a profound way to make space for renewal and growth. Forgiveness invites us to step into a freer way of living that reflects God’s abundant grace and love.

Forgiveness is not only about others—it’s about you, too. Many of us carry an inner dialogue of regret or self-criticism that weighs us down. Can you extend to yourself the same grace and compassion that God so freely gives?

Each day is an opportunity to weave forgiveness into the fabric of your life. It might look like pausing to offer grace instead of holding on to anger. It could mean choosing to see yourself with the gentleness God holds you with or letting go of perfectionism or self-doubt.

God’s grace and our daily lives
At the heart of forgiveness is the truth of God’s grace. God’s forgiveness is vast, unearned, and freely given. As we receive this gift, we are called to extend it to others and ourselves. And when forgiveness feels impossible, we can rest in the assurance that God meets us where we are, carrying the weight we cannot bear and holding space for healing in God’s time.

This year, may forgiveness become a way of life—not as a task to complete but as an invitation to encounter God’s grace anew. Even in the face of injustice and overwhelming challenges, may we find the courage to forgive, the strength to persist, and the faith to trust God’s redeeming work in the world.

Discussion questions:
1. Think about a time when forgiveness—whether of someone else or yourself—was especially difficult. How did you navigate that experience, and where did you see God at work in the process?

2. What does it mean to balance forgiveness with accountability in a world filled with injustices? How can we practice forgiveness while staying committed to advocating for justice and equity?

3. The article highlights the importance of self-forgiveness as a reflection of God’s grace. Why do you think forgiving ourselves is often harder than forgiving others? How might embracing God’s unconditional forgiveness reshape how you view yourself?

Closing Prayer
Gracious and forgiving God, you invite us into the freedom of forgiveness—a gift so vast and undeserved. We confess that sometimes forgiveness feels beyond our reach, especially when the wounds are deep, the injustices are great, or the burdens of self-condemnation are heavy. Thank You for meeting us in those moments, carrying the weight we cannot bear, and reminding us of Your infinite grace.

As we step into this new year, open our hearts to release the pain we harbor, whether it’s toward others, the world, or ourselves. Teach us to forgive as You forgive—to let go not out of weakness but out of courage and love. Strengthen us to act for justice without losing sight of Your mercy, and guide us to see ourselves and others with the compassion You extend to all.

May Your grace sustain us, Your Spirit guides us, and Your love transforms us as we walk forward in faith. Amen.

The Rev. Minna Bothwell serves Capitol Hill Lutheran Church in the East Village of Des Moines, Ia. Much of her ministry centers around creating authentic relationships and advocacy for Iowans. When not working she loves spending time with her husband Nat and daughter Ada. In the summer she loves to garden and paint.

You can read other articles by Minna Bothwell here.