Christmas is right around the corner! And although the most important ‘reason for the season’ is to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, many of us also enjoy the sights, sounds, and experiences that are associated with the holiday. It’s a time to spend with family and friends, attend special church gatherings and nativity plays, exchange gifts, participate in fun seasonal activities, decorate our homes—and watch the Christmas movies that we probably pull out once a year. And one of the most beloved of these is the 1946 movie, It’s a Wonderful Life, starring Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reed.

It’s a Wonderful Life is my personal favorite go-to holiday classic, and I look forward to ‘visiting’ with George and Mary Bailey in Bedford Falls each December while I wrap Christmas gifts. It’s also a movie that my whole family enjoys, and the plot has sparked some meaningful conversations through the years. Following George’s life story and watching him learn about the things in life that truly matter is heart-wrenching, yet also heart-warming.

Of course, this amazing screenplay by Frank Capra is fictional, but I think there are definitely some take-aways for all of us.

1. Life is a gift from God. When we wake up each day, we are blessed. God’s mercies are new every morning, and we should praise Him for the very breath we breathe. Never take life for granted. George contemplated ending his life, thinking he didn’t matter. God showed him otherwise by letting him ‘see’ what would’ve happened if he’d never been born.
2. Each life has a purpose and God has a plan. We never know how God will use us, but our lives are never wasted. George didn’t realize how his life (and actions) could affect the lives or futures of others, but our Heavenly Father had a plan. God used George in mighty (although seemingly insignificant) ways all through his life. [Spoiler alert: He saved his younger brother’s life, who in turn became a pilot and saved the lives of many soldiers during the war. He kept a grieving pharmacist from inadvertently filling a child’s prescription with a poisonous substance. He carried on his father’s legacy of providing suitable and affordable housing for poor families.] He was a friend to many and a loving husband, father, brother, and son. George’s one life made a difference!
3. Adversity comes, but God is always there. He can use bad for good! George certainly experienced some hard times, but he was never alone. And of course, there was always the angel, Clarence! 😊 And while mean old Mr. Potter might’ve been a thorn in George’s side, he was also a catalyst to bring out the best in George’s character when it truly mattered.
4. Appreciate the blessings and life you have. George had a loving wife who encouraged him and set a good example of how to always ‘look for the good.’ He had four beautiful children, a nice (although drafty) home, an extended family, countless friends, and a meaningful career. It took a tragedy to make George realize it, but he truly did have a wonderful life.
5. Friends matter! Because George had been a friend, he had friends. He was selfless and tried to put others first. Therefore, when George and his family faced scandal and bankruptcy because of Mr. Potter’s deceit, his friends came through to help him. And as George’s guardian angel, Clarence, stated in a book inscription at the end of the movie, “No man is a failure who has friends.”
6. We can be rich in many things besides money. George and Mary didn’t have a lot of money, but they were definitely rich in the things that mattered. When we keep our eyes on the important things in life rather than trying to keep up with the Joneses, we will be more content. And of course, we can be shining examples of Christian love for our children. We can pray for them, read the Bible to them, model Christian values, and teach them about Jesus. These are precious things that are way more valuable than anything money can buy.

As you plan your holiday activities this year, consider setting aside time to get cozy, pop some popcorn, make a cup of hot cocoa (with marshmallows), and watch It’s a Wonderful Life with your family. Afterwards, springboard into some interesting conversations about the plot and the take-aways from the movie. Who knows—it might become a yearly tradition! And always remember…every life is a WONDERFUL LIFE!

Visit Amy at amyoquinn.com.

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