It’s a Wonderful Life(Part I): A Parable of Love and Putting Others First
While “It’s a Wonderful Life” may not be a Christmas story that centers around Jesus, it is a parable that embodies the concept of love and putting others ahead of oneself. This timeless film, directed by Frank Capra and starring Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reed, has touched the hearts of millions since its release in 1946. It tells the story of George Bailey, a man who sacrifices his dreams and ambitions to help others in his community. In this article, we will explore the profound message of love and selflessness found in “It’s a Wonderful Life” and how it resonates with biblical teachings.
A Tale of Two Cities: Bedford Falls and Pottersville
The film takes place in the charming town of Bedford Falls, a close-knit community where neighbors know each other and lend a helping hand. George Bailey, played by Jimmy Stewart, is a compassionate and selfless individual who dedicates his life to serving others. He runs the Bailey Building and Loan, a financial institution that provides mortgages to working-class families, allowing them to achieve their dream of homeownership.
On the other hand, there is Pottersville, a town named after the wealthy and ruthless Henry Potter. In Pottersville, the sense of community is lost, replaced by crime, sleazy establishments, and despair. George’s despair leads him to contemplate suicide on Christmas Eve until his guardian angel, Clarence, intervenes. Clarence shows George what life would have been like in Bedford Falls if he had never been born, revealing the profound impact he had on the lives of those around him.
This stark contrast between Bedford Falls and Pottersville reminds us of Proverbs 29:2, which states, “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when a wicked man rules, the people groan.” In Bedford Falls, under the leadership of moral individuals like George Bailey, the community thrives, and people find joy in their jobs, homes, and relationships. In Pottersville, under the control of Henry Potter, the people groan, oppressed by his greed and selfishness.
Love One Another: George Bailey’s Selfless Choices
At the heart of “It’s a Wonderful Life” is the concept of love and putting others ahead of oneself. George Bailey is faced with numerous choices throughout his life, and time and time again, he chooses to sacrifice his desires for the well-being of others. His decisions embody the biblical command to love one another.
One of George’s defining moments occurs when he saves his brother Harry from drowning as a child. Little did George know that this act of selflessness would lead to Harry saving the lives of hundreds of soldiers during World War II. This demonstrates the ripple effect of love and how one person’s actions can have a profound impact on the lives of others.
George’s compassion is further exemplified when he confronts Mr. Gower, the town pharmacist, about an incorrect prescription. By preventing a tragedy, George not only saves a life but also keeps Mr. Gower out of prison. This act of love and concern for others showcases George’s character and his commitment to doing what is right.
Another significant sacrifice George makes is giving up his dreams of traveling and exploring the world to run the Bailey Building and Loan. Through his leadership, the working-class families of Bedford Falls can achieve the dream of homeownership and live with dignity. George’s selflessness allows others to have a better life, even at the expense of his ambitions.
The Triumph of Love over Selfishness
Henry Potter, the antagonist of the film, embodies selfishness and greed. He sees the people of Bedford Falls as mere “suckers” and takes pleasure in exploiting their hard work and struggles. Potter’s wealth and power allow him to control the lives of others, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and despair.
However, the triumph of love over selfishness is evident in the film. When George faces financial ruin and scandal due to a mistake made by his uncle, the community rallies together to support him. People from all walks of life, from the poorest to the wealthiest, contribute money to help George overcome his challenges. This outpouring of generosity demonstrates the power of love and the inherent goodness within humanity.
George’s despair is transformed into hope as he realizes the impact he has had on the lives of those around him. He recognizes that love, sacrifice, and community are far more valuable than material wealth and personal achievements. In the end, it is love that saves George from his darkest moments and restores him to a place of joy and gratitude.
The Biblical Call to Love One Another
“It’s a Wonderful Life” beautifully aligns with the biblical teachings on love and community. In the Gospel of John, Jesus instructs his disciples, saying, “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you” (John 15:12). Jesus exemplified this love by laying down his life for others, as stated in John 15:13.
The importance of love within the Christian community is reiterated in John 13:34-35, where Jesus says, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another.”
The apostle Peter also emphasizes the significance of love, stating in 1 Peter 4:8, “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” This echoes the message of forgiveness and redemption found in “It’s a Wonderful Life,” as George’s acts of love and sacrifice ultimately lead to his redemption and the redemption of those around him.
The film also aligns with the teachings of the apostle Paul, who encourages believers to encourage one another, bear one another’s burdens, and build one another up (Galatians 6:2, 1 Thessalonians 5:11). George Bailey embodies these principles as he selflessly supports and uplifts his community, even in the face of personal challenges and sacrifices.
Love: The Greatest Gift of All
The iconic passage on love from 1 Corinthians 13 beautifully encapsulates the message of “It’s a Wonderful Life.” It states, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, and it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres” (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).
George Bailey exemplifies these qualities of love throughout the film. He demonstrates patience and kindness, even in the face of adversity. He puts the needs of others before his own, never seeking personal gain or recognition. George’s love for his community protects and uplifts those around him, giving them hope and inspiring them to persevere through difficult times.
Conclusion
“It’s a Wonderful Life” is a timeless parable that resonates with audiences across generations. While it may not be a Christmas story centered around Jesus, its message of love and putting others ahead of oneself aligns with biblical teachings. George Bailey’s selfless acts of love and sacrifice serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of community, compassion, and the impact one person’s life can have on others.
As we watch this beloved film during the holiday season, let us be inspired by George’s example and strive to embody the command to love one another. May we encourage, support, and uplift those around us, recognizing that our actions, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in the lives of others. Let us embrace the spirit of “It’s a Wonderful Life” and live out its message of love, selflessness, and the triumph of good over evil.
As 1 Corinthians 13:13 reminds us, “And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.” May love be the guiding force in our lives, transforming our communities and bringing hope and joy to all.
About the Author
Allow us to introduce you to Bruce Mitchell – a true devotee of the Word, a guiding light in the midst of chaos, and a compassionate shepherd to his congregation. His role extends beyond that of a mere speaker; he is an ardent Bible instructor, a devoted Pastor, and an impassioned writer who strives to infuse heavenly wisdom into our daily lives.
Bruce takes great pleasure in having pursued his education at both Biola University and Dallas Theological Seminary. His heart beats with the desire to share God’s profound love and boundless mercy with the world through his ministry, Agapao Allelon Ministries, as well as his blog, Allelon.us. His mission? To interweave the principles of Agapao Allelon into society’s very fabric – embodying divine commandments such as Loving One Another and reflecting God’s immeasurable mercy, grace, and forgiveness in every aspect of our existence.
Drawing inspiration from 1 Peter 4:8, Bruce firmly believes that love possesses the transformative power necessary to turn an adversary into a friend. In accordance with 1 John 4:7-8, he maintains that without love, one cannot truly know God. And guided by Ephesians 4:31-32, he consistently implores us all to embrace love wholeheartedly just as Jesus loved us.
Bruce Mitchell is more than just another voice in this vast universe; he embodies unwavering faith paired with heartfelt empathy for others’ struggles. As always, he serves as our wise mentor, conveying insights gained from personal experiences while aiming to inspire and provide solace when needed most.
Join him as he unravels the essence of God’s word and helps you apply it in your daily life. Let’s share the love, as Jesus commanded!
Pastor | Bible Teacher | Speaker | Writer | Advocate for God’s Mercy, Grace & Love in daily life | He studied at both Biola University & Dallas Theological Seminary | 1 Peter 4:8
Check out more of his work here.
