It’s a wonderful life! Is it really? How many natural disasters occurred, with hundreds of lives lost this past year? How many random shootings and other acts of violence did we hear about? The news is full of story after story of people making bad choices that impact others. So, is it really a wonderful life?
The question was answered for me when I was on one of the St. Luke’s Mission Trips to Houston in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. One home we visited was occupied by a sweet lady, who met us in the yard. She apologized for arriving late, as she’d been at the funeral home planning her son’s funeral. He’d passed away that very morning; just a few weeks after the storm! We offered our condolences, but the impact of what she’d experienced was heavy on our hearts. Here was a woman who’d lost everything, including her son, and her home was being gutted. We diligently worked on her house, pulling nails from walls, picking up trash, and cleaning. We talked with her a bit, and each time she mentioned how important her faith was and that she was trusting God to help her through the difficult times. As we were leaving, she told us, “Thank you so much for helping. I’m so blessed!” Would she say, “It’s a wonderful life”? I believe so! Despite all losses, she knew she truly had experienced God’s abundant blessings in her life. She knew God was with her and for her, and He was going to help her overcome.
“A Wonderful Life” is one lived to honor Christ. It’s a peace-filled life devoted to our Creator, and holding to the certainty of His provision. In John 16:33, Jesus tells us, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Our Houston friend knows that life is full of both good times and bad; she’s knows her time here on earth is fleeting, and that much of what she lost in the storm can be replaced. She also knows she’ll see her son again one day. Her world was turned upside down but her feet were firmly planted in God’s truth, and that’s the reason hers is “A Wonderful Life”!
Prayer: Holy God, we live in a world that can be scary! Help us remember that we’re never alone, because you are with us always, and you have overcome the world. We’re grateful that we can have “A Wonderful Life” through you. Amen.
Susan Easttom, Director of Family Ministries
