he other night I was watching one of my favorite movies, "Forrest Gump." Although simple-minded, Forrest was unwavering in his ability to give of himself and selflessly care for others, even if they did not seem to deserve or appreciate his efforts.

Towards the end of the film, a "light bulb" came on and I realized why this movie was so endearing to me. Although not overtly stated in the story, it dawned on me that the character of Forrest Gump used Christian values in making his decisions. Forrest based his actions towards others on unconditional love. It wasn't just because he was a good or kind person; it was because he made decisions based on his Christian faith and values that had been instilled in him throughout his life.

Many of you might object and say the movie never openly stated that Forrest regularly attended church or had a personal relationship with Jesus. However, the movie did show Forrest singing in the choir of an African American church, so we know at some point he attended church. In my mind, I am convinced he was a Christian. I like to imagine Forrest took God's word to heart. He certainly demonstrated the behavior Jesus set out for us in John 15:12: "This is my commandment, that you love one another as I loved you."

One example is Forrest's unconditional love for his childhood sweetheart, Jenny. This poor girl made some bad lifestyle decisions. No matter how far she strayed, Forrest always forgave her and welcomed Jenny back home with open arms. He cared for her during her darkest hours, illustrating God's willingness to accept and love those who ask him for forgiveness.

Forrest also loved the unlovable. If you've seen the movie, you will certainly recall Lieutenant Dan, the proud military career man who lost his legs in Vietnam and began a downward spiral towards self-destruction in his despair. Forrest never stopped believing in him and walked beside him at the lowest points in his life. Although Forrest didn't condone his friend's actions, he still loved his friend. Just like Jesus, Forrest hung out with some of the rougher characters on which nobody else would waste their time.

The symbolism throughout this movie has convinced me that God's love had a profound influence on Forrest's behavior.

Perhaps the biggest biblical undertone of the movie is that God uses the most unlikely people to fulfill his will. If God could use such an unassuming (fictional) person such as Forrest, then just think what he could do with us. Just like that box of chocolates - we never know what God has in store for us.