Cinematic Faith: Life Lessons From the Big ScreenSample

In Les Misérables, one quiet moment changes everything. Jean Valjean, hardened by years in prison and bitterness, meets the bishop who welcomes him, feeds him, and gives him a place to sleep. When Valjean steals silver, he expects judgment—but instead receives radical, undeserved grace. This small act of grace sets him on a path to mercy, compassion, and redemption despite the injustice he’s endured.

That echoes Psalm 103: God does not treat us as we deserve. He gives mercy when judgment is justified. He gives us Jesus.

When we experience this kind of compassion, it transforms how we relate to others. We stop keeping score. We start giving away what we’ve been given. It might mean forgiving a co-worker who messed up, showing patience to a family member who keeps hurting us, or even offering grace to ourselves.

Who in your life needs compassion today? How could you extend grace in a way that reflects God’s heart?

Pray: God, thank you for showing me mercy I didn’t earn. Help me extend that same grace to others, reflecting your love in every interaction. Amen.