Not counting children’s concerts, my husband, Dana, and I had made it to exactly zero live Christmas show since before becoming parents. Our oldest son is in college! So when a pair of ticket vouchers for the Portland Stage company’s performance of It’s a Wonderful Life: Live Radio Play landed in my mailbox, I eagerly snapped up two seats.

Had I ever been to a live radio show? An usher asked as Dana and I presented our tickets outside the plush, 286-seat theater.

I shook my head, no idea what was in store.

What a treat! Adapted from Frank Capra’s 1946 Christmas classic, the production recounts how one man’s selfless choices influence his family and community. The central character, George Bailey, dreams of travelling the world but sacrifices his ambitions to serve those in his small town. When all seems lost, George is aided by a droll angel who reveals the impact George’s decision has made in the lives of others.

Five clever actors play the lead rolls — sometimes more than one at a time, with comical results. The supporting ensemble includes local children and a lively pianist. But what is most unusual about this version of the story are the background sound effects, performed onstage as if for live radio. Using shoes, a wooden board, cutlery, a tub of water and other props, the players bring the sounds of the story to life while the audience joins in when prompted.

And yet, as charming and well-acted as the show is, what I most enjoyed was its heartfelt, spirit-lifting message — beginning when the town’s people pray for George when he most needs it. It is a testament to the power of selfless devotion to bring positive change in the lives of others, even when the cost is high. It is a reminder that we are designed to live in community with our neighbors and that even when we mess up, we can ask for help.

“I’m not much of a praying man,” George pleads at the height of his despair. “But if you are up there, God, please show me the way.”

George gets his answer in the form of Clarence, an angel working to earn his wings. Like George, I too have often cried out to God. Sometimes believing. Sometimes doubting. And yet, while I have not knowingly conversed with angels, I have found that God hears and answers my prayers — often through other people.

You don’t have to look far to find people experiencing great hardship this holiday season. While God certainly has the ability to intervene with angels, he most often chooses to work through you and me.

To celebrate this upcoming second week of Advent, think about who you can bring hope to this Christmas. We each have a chance to make a difference. For fun and inspiration, invite someone to this poignant show, which runs through Christmas Eve. Ticket information can be found at www.portlandstage.org

Meadow Rue Merrill, the author of Redeeming Ruth: Everything Life Takes, Love Restores, writes for children and adults from a little house in the big woods of midcoast Maine. Connect at www.meadowrue.com