As we come to the end of 2024, we want to finish our theme for the year: Be Intentional. December’s topic is Spirituality. We don’t know where you are in your spiritual journey, but we feel Christmas is a good time to explore that. As some of you may know Wade was a pastor for 18 years. We would be happy to discuss the journey to our beliefs, however, it is a long and slightly twisted path and much too long for a newsletter.
We thought we could share some of our beliefs with lessons gleaned from Annette’s favorite Christmas Movie, “It’s A Wonderful Life”.
- The Power of Small Acts of Kindness
In “It’s A Wonderful Life,” George Bailey’s life is filled with seemingly small, everyday acts that make a profound difference in his community. From helping his brother as a child to giving up his dreams to save the Building and Loan, George’s choices seem insignificant at the time, but they create a ripple effect that changes the lives of many people.
Sometimes, it’s the little things that count most in life. Whether it’s offering a kind word, listening to someone in need, or simply showing up when it’s inconvenient, these actions often have a much greater impact than we realize. - The Importance of Community
One of the key messages of the film is that we are not alone, and we are meant to be in community with one another. The people in George’s life—his friends, family, and even acquaintances—are a reflection of how we are all interconnected. When George feels his life is worthless, it’s the people he’s touched who come to his aid. We are, in essence, part of a larger story that is always unfolding, often in ways we can’t see at first. - The Value of Self-Sacrifice
George Bailey sacrifices his own dreams and personal ambitions for the good of others. At times, it seems like he is giving up his happiness for the sake of others, yet in the end, it’s these very sacrifices that create a rich, meaningful life. True fulfillment often comes not from pursuing our own desires, but by serving others. - True Wealth Isn’t Money
When George belittles Potter, he says, “my father died a much richer man than you’ll ever be.” Despite following in his father’s footsteps, he failed to see himself in the same light. When the whole town gathers to help and celebrate George, the money they brought didn’t make him rich.
A truly profound moment was when Harry raised his glass to toast “to [his] big brother George, the richest man in town!” Ironically, George spent a big part of his life fighting Potter, the richest man in town, only to recognize he was the richest man all along - The Importance of Perspective
One of the most poignant moments in the movie is when George Bailey is shown what life would have been like if he had never been born. He sees all the ways his life has impacted others, for better or for worse, and it gives him a new sense of appreciation for his own existence. Sometimes, we need to step back and get a broader perspective on our lives. When we feel lost, hopeless, or insignificant, we can often find our way by looking at the bigger picture and recognizing the ways in which our lives touch others. - Hope and Redemption
At the end of the film, after George’s lowest moment, his life is redeemed. His struggles are shown to have meaning, and his worth is affirmed by his friends and family. The final scene of the film, with the ringing of the bell on the Christmas tree and the inscription “Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings,” reminds us that even in our darkest moments, there is hope, and redemption is always possible. - “No man is a failure who has friends”
After George reclaims his life and happily celebrates Christmas with his family and friends, he receives a book with an inscription from his guardian angel, thanking him for the wings. Clarence also writes, “No man is a failure who has friends”. Reinforcing the importance of family, friends can be there to celebrate the good times and provide support during bad times. - Gratitude for What We Have
At the movie’s close, George Bailey is surrounded by friends and family who offer their support and love, and he is filled with a deep sense of gratitude for the life he’s lived. The simple joys of home, community, and connection take on new significance in the light of his earlier despair. Being intentional about recognizing and appreciating the blessings we have—no matter how small—helps to align our hearts with God’s goodness. The holidays are a time to reflect on the blessings in our lives and to give thanks for the gifts of love, family, and faith.
Be Intentional About Your Life
Ultimately, “It’s A Wonderful Life” teaches us that our lives are significant, that the impact of our choices reverberates far beyond what we can see. If we are intentional in the way we live and in the love we give, we become a part of a larger story—one of redemption, community, and grace. As we approach the Christmas season, may we remember that each life, no matter how ordinary it may seem, is woven into the beautiful tapestry of God’s plan.
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