One reason I wanted to reprint your letter is because I hope it will encourage churches and families not to forget those they know who are in prison—whatever the reason. A Christmas card or letter, or even a visit, would greatly encourage them during difficult days. The Bible says, “Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison” (Hebrews 13:3).

You may feel you are forgotten, and you may try to forget Christmas this year, but I want to assure you that God has not forgotten you. He knows what you’ve done, and He also knows the loneliness and despair you feel. And yet He still loves you and wants you to become part of His family forever. Once you understand this, your life will never be the same.

How do I know God loves you? I know it because of what took place in Bethlehem some 2,000 years ago. On that first Christmas night, God sent His Son into the world—because He loves us. Christ came for one reason: to bring us back to God, and by His death and resurrection He made this possible.

My prayer is that you will invite Christ to come into your life today. Don’t let bitterness, or guilt, or fear, or anything else keep you from Christ. God’s promise is true: “to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God” (John 1:12).

Find peace with God this Christmas