The Gift of Forgiveness Through Spiritual Direction

As we enter another Advent, Christmas, and the start of a New Year, the wounds of family and friends can make us think about forgiveness.

Are we avoiding social situations?

Are we trying to make amends?

Do we say we forgive, but continue to carry a hardened heart?

Finding forgiveness is often a long process, but spiritual direction can play a role in that.

What are the signs of Unforgiveness?

I previously wrote a scenario about Derek, a divorced father estranged from his family. Divorced and apart from his son for years. Barely spoke to his parents for a decade after an argument with his father. He told himself he was fine to be alone on Christmas, but it wasn't that easy.

Losses accumulate over time. One strained relationship leads to other strained relationships, and the stress can also lead to physical symptoms. Unforgiveness can keep us locked into our past negative situations.

Is it time for therapy or spiritual direction?

Forgiveness can help us heal or at least move beyond some of our trauma. Not every relationship can or should be repaired, but wanting to forgive is a step to healing ourselves. It is an act of self-care.

If we are currently processing a particular relationship, therapy might be the right course of action. It can be important to build a relationship with a trusted, third party to provide insight into the situation and build healthy responses.

On the other hand, we may be at a point where we are actively working on forgiveness, but as we enter the holiday season, some old wounds ache. It will pass, but it will also take time.

Working on your relationship with God through spiritual direction isn't a short term strategy. It's meant to give you space to hear God better and see where you can grow closer to Him, through prayer, forgiveness, faith, hope, and love.

Making space for God and Forgiveness

Spiritual direction isn't therapy. But a closer relationship to God can help you understand where He is calling you to walk--in your work, your relationships, and your faith. A strong relationship with the Father, accepting His love, allows you to love others better, in the way that He loves them.

As we enter this busy holiday season and start a new year, if you find that you're struggling to be intentional this Advent, there is a space for you to grow in spiritual direction.

God bless you this season.

"If you want to bring happiness to the whole world, go home and love your family."

-St. Teresa of Calcutta