We all have favorite traditions. One of mine is watching “It’s a Wonderful Life” each year around Christmas. Who doesn’t get a little choked up at the end as the whole town comes together to express their love for George Bailey during his time of need? The people that he has loved on for his entire life, now have the opportunity to give back to him. They line up to give to George’s immediate need. You see, George Bailey never became rich. He never traveled around the world as he wanted. He didn’t live in the finest of homes. He was just an average guy who invested in people his whole life. When he had a need, the whole town responded. One line that especially summarizes the movie and his life was at the very end when his brother Harry holds up a glass and says, “A toast to my big brother George: the richest man in town.”
You may not feel rich, but listen to these words directly from the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 8:9. For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich. “Richness” comes in many forms, but the greatest is that which came in the form of Jesus’ sacrifice on your behalf. What an incredible statement. Frankly, I get a little choked up when I think about it. Just call me George Bailey.