PASTOR'S PEN

A couple of nights ago, I mentioned to my wife, Judy, that it had been a long time since we had seen the movie "It's a Wonderful Life." For those of you who may not have seen it, the movie takes place at Christmas time. The primary character is George Bailey whose life is reviewed after he becomes depressed over what seems to be the last straw in a long series of events. He ends up on a bridge ready to end it all, when a angel offers him a chance to see what his world would have been like if he had never lived at all.

It was a real opportunity for George to see the value of his life and see the difference his presence made to those around him. There is much for us to learn from George Bailey. Each individual plays a significant function in God's picture puzzle we call life. Each of us is needed to reveal God's intention for his earthly creation. There is a ripple effect to every part of this masterful work of art in which we are involved. To leave out the least little speck of what God created would change the result of God's original intention. We are not accidents! We are to live and do what we can to enable God to accomplish his intentions.

It cannot be imagined what life on Earth would be like if God had not cared enough to join us on our earthly pilgrimage some 2000 years ago. That one life certainly had its effect on all that has transpired since it was introduced on that Christmas morning in Bethlehem. Jesus in his life showed us a way to know God, to keep in contact with him and recognize his presence in the Holy Spirit. His is a wonderful life, which we celebrate at Christmas each year, and one we are thankful that he continues to share with us in our daily lives, always as close as our next thought.

Have a wonderful Christmas and New Year.

Father Al Leveridge is vicar at Trinity-by-the-Sea Episcopal Church.