This is the time of year that families tend to watch classic movies together. While it might not be a millennial favorite, It’s a Wonderful Life has touched hearts for years. When you see what George Bailey goes through—the good and the bad—you’re reminded that life is a beautiful journey! Life is not without hardships, but those hardships sometimes show you how much you have.
George goes through a series of events that drastically alter not only his future, but the future of his whole town. During childhood, his brother Harry breaks through the ice and falls into the water. George pulls Harry out and saves his life, but as a result of being in the water, loses hearing in one of his ears. In another childhood experience, he has a job at a drugstore. He realizes the pharmacist Mr. Gower has made a horrible mistake while filling a prescription. By bringing it to light, he averts disaster. He continues to be there for others as an adult, and he plays a huge role in financially rescuing those in his town.
All of these events have a ripple effect on George’s life. Because of his hearing loss, he’s unable to serve in the war the way he desires. Because of a series of events, including the death of his father, he’s unable to travel and attend college. The good that he does for others seems to hold him back from fulfilling his own dreams. On Christmas Eve, George’s Uncle Billy loses their bank’s deposit. This causes George to panic as he thinks about the possible charges and financial ruin. Contemplating suicide, he’s in a bad place and spiraling downward. His story reminds me of the Book of Job. Job lost his health, wealth, and family. He was in a seemingly hopeless situation. But as you’ll see if you read through the book, God restored what was lost. Job had his moments of weakens but ultimately chose to continue serving God.
Have you ever said, “Well, I guess there’s nothing left to do but pray”? This is a last resort for some people, but it should be one of the first things you do when facing challenges! George does ask God for direction, only as he’s hitting rock bottom. Little does he know that he has been assigned an angel named Clarence who saves him from committing suicide. The Bible says, “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life” (Proverbs 13:12, NIV). Later this week, I’m going to talk to you about finding hope when there seems to be none. George (with the help of Clarence) makes this discovery in the movie!