I don`t want to sound like a broken record but forgiveness is one of the works that shows the faith that we claim to have.
Hate to mention that dirty word works which has nothing to do with religious rituals which has given works a bad name.
James 2
26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
Mathew 7
22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
All any one has to do is read the rest of the chapter and can understand what Jesus was saying just like James did.
“... forgiveness is one of the works... Hate to mention that dirty word works which has nothing to do with religious rituals which has given works a bad name”
Well said - forgiveness is an example of a work. This is exactly what a work is.
Works need not have a bad name for any Christian because the concept that you stated above is the interpretation that all Christians give to works - a ritual is not considered a “work”.