'I wrote a message to the unknown recipient'

Ft Lauderdale, FL:

I collected spare change last year with the intention of gifting a Christmas jar. Right before Decemebr 25th, I asked my friend who works at a local hospital to please give my jar to the person she thought was most in need on Christmas Eve. Inside the jar, I wrote a message to the unknown recipient inside the bottle asking him or her to pay it forward the following year. I hope he will.

'The Christmas Jar Poem'

Effingham, New Hampshire:

(Please enjoy this Christmas Jar poem submitted by a very grateful recipient.)

Down on our luck

About all tapped out

Losing faith in humanity

Crying for help

To God above

Wondering what we could do

A phone call

On December eve

Changed all that

I am a friend of a friend

The voice on the phone said

I would like to drop

Something off for your family.

Tonight is fine, my wife said.

A car pulls in front of the house

A knock on the front door

A shadow slides something

Inside the front door.

When my eyes finally adjust

I see a jar

I carry it to the dining room.

Inside the large jar

Is a pile of change

Tinged with green bills too.

Our Christmas is made

And faith restored

That someone does care.

Inside also contained

A copy of “The Christmas Jar”

Read the book I did that night

With a tear in my eye

I finished the book.

Thank you to the angel

Who did care

To help a family in need

And restore our faith

In humanity.

'We can't begin to express our love and thanks for this act'

North Ogden, Utah:

My husband is a teacher in the LDS Church's seminary and loves his students and is loved by them. Just after school started the headaches he had been experiencing for a long time, suddenly escalated and became unbearable. It was discovered he had blood and fluid on the brain. After waiting for it to be re-absorbed, he finally had surgery to drain and release the pressure. He was in the hospital for most of a month, and is still recovering at home, but still even a shower exhausts him. The doctors have said this is akin to having a stroke and will take time to heal. His students and former students are all so wonderful and have done many things to cheer him up. He so wants to be back and they so much want him back. Time will tell if and when that will happen.

Anyway, last Sunday night, we heard a knock on our door, and when I answered it, no one was there. Then, some time later, we again heard a knock on the door and this time, when I answered it, there was a huge (I mean, HUGE) jar on our front step. It took a lot of work to get it inside, because I couldn't lift it. I weighed the four bowls I had filled with the coins and cash and it all totaled up to about 80 lbs.! No wonder I couldn't lift it. This is such a wonderful thing that will help to pay the doctor's bills that are still coming in and help with physical therapy. We can't begin to express our love and thanks for this act.

Thank you, Jason, for this wonderful idea that is spreading around the nation. I had just read your Christmas Jars books, and just this morning finished reading, "The 13th Day of Christmas". I want to rededicate myself to our Savior, every day, I love Him so much! Thank you!

'We were able to buy the food we needed'

Tucson, Arizona: 

We want to say Thank You to the person or family that left a Christmas Jar on our doorstep on Christmas Eve. 2012 was a very hard year for my husband and I. He had to work two full time jobs to pay the bills and put food on the table and in July we found out that my brother had a brain tumor that needed to be removed. We knew with everything that was going on we wouldn't be able to do much for the kids on Christmas. We promised the kids we would at least have their favorite breakfast on Christmas morning.

Then on Christmas Eve. when my son was leaving for work, he opened the front door and told us there was bag with something in it. My husband brought the bag inside and was shocked to see a big jar marked "Christmas Jar" filled to the top with coins and a book. I was speechless and so grateful at the same time. It gave us a new sense of hope and that there were people out there that really cared.

We were able to buy the food we needed to make our kids their favorite breakfast and pay some bills that were over due.

Again, my family wants to say Thank You and God Bless you for this wonderful gift. We have started our own Christmas Jar and can't wait to give it to a family or person in need next Christmas. =)

'What a tremendous blessing'

Okinawa, Japan:

My daughter and I are working hard on earning money for a mission trip to Nome Alaska! So far we have earned about $2000, as you can imagine plane tickets alone are quite expensive from Japan. We arrived at church one Sunday to find a Christmas Jar on the foyer table with our name on it. What a tremendous blessing. This will go a LONG way in helping us serve the native Alaskans.

We look forward to starting our own Christmas Jar!

'Thank You for the HOPE it gave me!'

Kansas City, MO.

I received a Christmas Jar on New Years Day. It could of been left for someone in much more need of it financially, but emotionally it was truly a blessing to me! It touched my Heart more than you will ever know. Thank You for the HOPE it gave me!!

'We have given away 3 jars now'

Rockford, IL:

We have given away 3 jars now...and it is ALWAYS a blessing to us every year.  Christmas wouldn't be the same without it!  This year, we know of a family nearby who has been struggling in various ways.  Christmas Eve, we dropped off the jar at their front door, trying hard to dodge the lights in the front of the house.  Later that evening, we drove by and saw that they had company over.  We didn't worry that the jar had been found.  However, the next day, we could see the cardboard box still sitting there on the front porch.  We waited...

On the 26th, it was still there.  Sigh.  We had to enlist a friend of ours who knows the family to send her child over to point out that there was a gift on their porch.  Thankfully it hadn't been stolen yet, although I'm sure if it HAD been God would have used it to someone's blessing regardless.  Already started NEXT year's jar.  I can't wait to see who God leads us to who needs it.

'The family has two little boys with Fragile X Syndrome'

Great Falls, VA:

Our family has been honored to support Jill's House, a mission of our church (McLean Bible Church, McLean, VA) that provides overnight respite for severely disabled children. It is named after our Pastor Lon Solomon's daughter, Jill, who is handicapped due to a seizure disorder. This beautiful facility has volunteer nurses and doctors as well as all the medical equipment necessary to take care of these children. It affords parents a chance for a night out, or some private time - the first Jill's House Mom I ever met told me she had not be out with her husband in sixteen years! We know there are many Jill's House families who suffer severe financial problems as the result of being blessed with a disabled child.  

This led us to ask the staff to help us choose a family for our 2012 Christmas Jar.  It was a tough decision for them, but here is the story they sent us about our Christmas Jar family.  

The Christmas Jar went to a family that has already been through so much and was not going to be able to afford to come to Jill's House. The family has two little boys with Fragile X Syndrome, which presents itself with hyperactivity, intellectual and speech delay and susceptibility to seizures and infections. The money from the jar made it possible for the oldest boy, I'll call him "Nat‚" to come to four days of our Christmas Day Camps.

Nat is a sweet boy who is always on the go. His brother requires constant supervision because he is more impulsive and has no fear for personal safety. Nat's brother is not able to communicate verbally and has to be taken to the bathroom every 20 minutes. The boys are so sweet and the staff loves it when they are able to come together to enjoy time to themselves.

Nat's mother suffered a stroke recently, has been out of work since then, and was recently in a car accident.  She is physically fine from the accident, but now they have more financial burdens to carry. Nat's dad was out of a job for two months and has finally found work.

I want to thank you and your family for providing a time of relief for this family.  

They deserve a break after what they have faced and are still facing. They were so joyful hearing that they could send Nathan to camp when they had been debating on whether they could afford it at all. I have passed along the jar and book to the family and I believe that they will carry on the tradition. I know that I have already started my own.

Such a wonderful thing to be able to change someone's life for even a moment and the ability to share God's love through this generous act each and every Christmas!

The conclusion about our Christmas Jar is the same we reach every year - wondering who is more blessed? Is it the giver or the recipient? That answer, of course, is "both."

'Every coin in that magic jar gave us hope, love and peace!'

Auburn, Alabama:

December 23, 2012 Will forever be remembered by our family. A beautiful jar was left at our front door and what was in it was magical. It had in it the power to heal. Every coin in that magic jar gave us hope, love and peace!  For us it was a reminder that we were not alone, that we were loved.

Earlier that year I had lost my precious niece to the worst kind of child abuse imaginable.  She was only four  and with her death came darkness for our family. Everything changed, life was so different.

As we slowly began to pick up our pieces, and tried to move forward, we were hit with another blow. My husband got fired after slaving for a company for 20 years! It was awful all over again. We wanted the year to just be over! 

Thank you to our angels who brought us such a beautiful gift with such a powerful message!  We will NEVER forget it!!!

'I gave to a woman whose husband passed away suddenly'

Tahlequah, Oklahoma:

This year I was able to do two Christmas jars. One I gave to a woman whose husband passed away suddenly. She has five children and I heard about this situation through my work grapevine, so I put the jar in a box and left it at the front desk where she works.

The second jar went to a neighbor who is just having a hard time making ends meet. I have already starting saving my change for this years jar. I told several of my co-workers about the Christmas jars and they did their own Christmas jars last year.

'We ran into the kitchen to see her on the floor crying and smiling and saying thank you to god'

Woodstock, Virginia:

A Miracle truly happened to me on Saturday I was at my friends house for a sleepover and we had gone snow tubing in Massunutten and when we got home her mom went on the back porch to get a water bottle and found a little gift bag and she had just lost her job and when she opened the little gift bag there in it was the christmas jar book and a jar full of Money when we heard a cry we ran into the kitchen to see her on the floor crying and smiling and saying thank you to god and then it made me remember the seven second miracle challenge we had last year at Peter Muhlenberg Middle School and I said to myself I can't believe someone took 17 seconds out of there day to give her this amazing gift it was truly a Christmas miracle.

'To the nice person who left me the christmas jar I thank you from the bottom of my heart'

Williamstown, N.J.:

My name is Debbie. I live in williamstown N.J. On Dec.22nd 2012 I came home from work and noticed a bag on my retaining wall for my flower beds. At first I thought it was trash so I went to throw it away then I saw a gift bag inside the bag and thought who would leave a gift outside like this. But I saw a book and thought it's for me since I read all the time but when I went to pick up the bag it was so heavy and I thought maybe there was a candle too. So I took the bag inside and pulled out a big jar full of cash and change and the christmas jar book. I looked for a card but nothing else was inside the bag. I never heard of this tradition so I googled it and found out more information on it.

I still have not counted the money. I put it way for a rainy day. I always do alot of charity gift giving thru the holidays every year but the past few years I have been unable to do to my own finanaces changing. 

I myself have been struggling finanacial. So to the nice person who left me the christmas jar I thank you from the bottom of my heart. This was such a wonderful suprise and I will always have such a great memeory of the kind stranger who left the jar of money for me to find. I will make sure to tell my story so that this wonderful tradition so passed on. God bless you and thanks again.

'This is our 6th year delivering a Christmas Jar'

Owensboro, KY:

This is our 6th year delivering a Christmas Jar and a CJ book! It's truly a tradition that we love to do. We have two young children in the house & the jars are part of our family tradition now. Can you imagine this: two children growing up and never remembering a year we DIDN'T give a Christmas Jar away?  How awesome is that!?!  Over the years, they'll have so

many memories of delivering these jars. And I'm sure the tradition will be continued one day with their families when they're older. I remember each & every house that we've visited over the 6 years as we anonomously dropped off the jars.  One of the best parts of the Christmas Jar tradition is you feel the spriit of Christmas & giving everyday as you work towards that one moment in December when the jars are delivered. Thanks so much for being the inspiration.

'I hope they delivered it to the right person'

Kansas City, MO:

I can't believe this!

I woke up Christmas morning with my 4 kids, to see santa (my dad) and this jar on my front door step my mom had said was left.

I hope they delivered it to the right person, this year was very hard for us I had just gave birth to my last child in august and his new born screening came back positive for a genetic disorder called homocystinuria, the doctor from childrens mercy called me on a Friday stating my son derrick was at stroke level or going permanently blind, every Monday was a long, scarry,and sad trip to downtown childrens mercy. it took a hardship on finances and the older siblings, including us. but by the grace of god lots of praying from family and wonderful friends his dna test came back normal, they were all false positives. amen.

I do not know who gave us this wonderful Christmas jar and the book along with it, but we would like to thank you so very much. it helped pay bills I got behind on them because I chose to buy the few gifts that I could for my kids. I had a beautiful Christmas along with my whole family showed up at my home that day. I would also like to say I have not had a chance to sit down and read the book but I will soon im trying to get derrick on a regular sleep schedule now he was very spoiled while we waited for test results I was terrified to put him down or even go to sleep myself. I was enjoying what I thought was going to be the end of time for him. but I promise I will take time every evening to read what I can and to start filling the jar back up by next Christmas to give back alomg with the book. once again thank you so very much and you to are a blessing.

'We want to thank the person or people that God was working thru'

Corvallis, MT:

My name is Staci and this year my family and I were blessed with a Christmas Jar. We want to thank the person or people that God was working thru. My husband and I have been in prayer for many things latley and although we are thankful for the trials that have been in our life we recently have been a little discouraged and asked God if was listening. We know as I am sure you do that God hears all and that everything is in his timing and for our good. 

However a couple days after that frustration and asking for forgivness for the frustration we received the Christmas Jar. For us it was like God said hang in there. It certainly brought tears and many other emotions and we were not sure what to do with it at first. I read the Christmas Jar book that was also left and it inspired us to start our own Christmas Jar on the 26th. Next year we hope to allow someone to experience the blessing that we did. Thank you so much for you kindness. I know that you do not want us to know who you are, but we want you to know that this was very special and we pray that you have a blessed New Year.

'I'm overjoyed at the chance to provide a bit of Christmas to my family when I go back home'

Provo, UT:

Story: This last year has been a huge financial struggle for me. It's not uncommon as an undergrad college student, but It has been frustrating to get enough work and do well my my classes. When I thought I had finally gotten a hold of my finances, I was yet again struggling to pay my bills. My parents can't help me at all as they are currently filing for bankruptcy. Last Christmas our family had our most modest Christmas where we just did a gift exchange. Despite it all, I wasn't bothered by it. This year it has been even worse. I wasn't even sure I would be able to travel home to my family for the holidays.I committed to stay by myself in my apt. and taking shifts during the break to cover my bills. I was preparing to spend my Christmas away from my family and I expected to receive no gifts. Who would really give me anything?

I was happy when I found out I would have a ride home, but again, I expected that the holiday would be just spending time with family and I was fine with that. I wanted to get my family gifts, but I had no way, and with being harassed by phone calls to collect a medical bill my insurance won't acknowledge, I didn't know how I would ever become financially independent again.

I have felt guilty and frustrated by my lack of money management skills and recently felt strongly about how I need to change and become more responsible.

It was only a few days ago, but I was at my apt and my roommate had just left and I heard a knock on the door. A girl in my complex told me I had a jar sitting on my porch, filled with money and she wanted to make sure I knew. I took it from her and she left and I was just numb for a moment. Among all the pennies were random items, gum, candy and bigger change. As I dug into the jar, I noticed bills and as I pulled out the $20 dollar bills, tears streamed down my cheeks. I was overwhelmed that someone living near me, who I can imagine was also a poor college student would part with so much money. I have felt an immense responsibility to use this precious gift I received. I still don't know the exact amount yet, but I can guess that is over $200.00. After I examined the jar, I noticed the "Christmas Jar" label and began my search. I found the book and read it, hoping I could understand and appreciate this beautiful gift and know how to pass it on to someone else.

Part of the money will cover some of my bills and other financial obligations, but I'm overjoyed at the chance to provide a bit of Christmas to my family when I go back home. I know my dad expects to spend any extra money fixing his truck, and my disabled mother will need to get a knee brace. I can't wait to surprise them!

Whoever gave me this gift, it means so much! Come Jan 1st, I will be filling the jar and passing it on, come next Christmas and beyond.

'Isn't it amazing to know that someone out there was thinking about us?'

Sandpoint, Idaho:

I don't have some amazing story to share, just a very simple one that I will always remember because it was the kindest thing that has ever happened to me and my mom and I don't even know who did it.

On Friday December 21st 2012 there was a knock on my door while my mom was home alone, thinking that it was me locked out of the house my mom got up to let me in only to discover a woman standing there with a jar of money. The woman told my mom that someone wanted her to have this and then just walked away leaving my mom stunned holding a jar with bills and coins in it and a book titled "Christmas Jars". My mom then proceeded to text me telling me that something amazing had just happened, a lady she had never met before had just given her a jar of money. I must say that I found it highly suspicious and went straight home to see for myself this jar of money. When I arrived home just as my mom had said there was a jar full of money sitting on our counter and my mom was reading the book that the lady had also given her. I told her that I thought this must be some trick because I couldn't understand why someone would give us money. We are not the neediest family in my town but we do have trouble sometimes because it's hard to find work.

The next morning when I arrived home my mom had finished the book and relayed what it was about to me. I found myself holding back tears because I was so moved by the story and amazed that someone in our town had thought to do something so kind for us. The thing that I find most amazing about the jar is that it didn't just have coins and small bills in it but some $20's. It's amazing to think that someone or a family spent a year filling this jar just with the purpose of giving all that they collect to someone they thought could use a Christmas miracle. Thanks to that person my mom and I have decided to start a Christmas jar of our own taking some of the money that we were given (over $200 was in the jar) and putting it in the jar to start it off. My mom said something that stuck with me, she said "Isn't it amazing to know that someone out there was thinking about us?"

I am truly grateful to the person or persons that thought of us this Christmas and look forward to slowly filling up our own jar to give to someone next Christmas.

'Who would give it to me, this has to be a mistake'

Sandpoint, Idaho:

The most beautiful gift came in a plastic jug with no markings but a lot number and a notice to keep refrigerated. Last night, tired and aching from tackling that infamous snow berm that grows magically I retired to the only place truly warm in the house bed.  The doorbell rang.  My first thought is that my daughter has forgotten her keys and I am not happy that I have to get out of my now warm bed.  The doorbell rings again as it takes me a little bit to unwrap myself from the multiple blankets.  As I open the door, I know that now my face must reveal my displeasure of being disturbed from my 7 pm hibernation.  Primed to give a lecture, a stranger stands there with some sort of plastic jug in her arms.  My thoughts now turn quickly to "she is at the wrong house or her car has become stuck‚ and darn it I will have to get dressed and go out in the cold." Then I begin to register that the huge jug she holds is full of change and what looks like dollar bills.  The woman smiling states my name and informs me that the jug is for me.  She asks if she set it in my house, as it is heavy.  I do not remember much really after that point of what I said.  My brain no longer functioned.  I do not even know that I said thank you.  Seldom am I shocked into silence.  I do know that I asked who sent this jug and she told me that she could not say but was to deliver it to me.

My thoughts raced as I closed the door. "Where did this come from? How could someone fill such a huge jar with so much change"? Who would give it to me, this has to be a mistake."

The jug came with a book titled "Christmas Jar". I stayed up late to read the entire book and cried and I am still crying this morning as I type this. The gift I was given was more than financial although that is needed as I like many struggle to keep the bills paid but a restoration of the spirit.  There are people that care. There are people who notice. I am not alone. It is not just the reason for the season but also the reason for life - to care and bring connections to a world that can seem somewhat lost.

I know there is hope because as a substitute teacher I work with children and they demonstrate the purest of hope and potential for this world yet I am somewhat concerned of how the "out there" can crush the dreams of many.  Goodness is alive "out there" and I have a new wonderful tradition that I cannot wait to start.

Thank you to the anonymous family or person who delivered the most beautiful plastic jug I have ever received. It has touched me in so many ways.  God bless you.

'I was affected by the Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy'

Newtown, Connecticut:

On December 14th 2012 my life changed forever as I was affected by the Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy. On Christmas Eve, I received a phone call at approximately 9 p.m. The caller wished me a Merry Christmas and told me something had been left in our mailbox and when I asked who was calling, he simply replied "Merry Christmas".

This selfless act of kindness has renewed my faith in the goodness of humanity. Merry Christmas!

'I have never had anything like this happen to me'

Bradenton , Florida :

As a single Mom of two young children, I struggled off and on all year. Some days were good, others were bad. What always kept me going was my strong faith. I knew that I had to let go and trust in Him. Every year, I dedicate myself to helping others. Every day if I can in any way. I truly love it. This is something I learned from my Grandfather who passed away many years ago. He was the most important person in my life and he was the most incredible man. We were so close that when he passed I felt like my world had ended. It was like loosing a father.

This year at Thanksgiving and Christmas I did more than I ever have. I just knew I had to. I wanted to do more. I have been so blessed where many others think I haven't because of my bad "luck" as they call it but I am so blessed. I needed to give others HOPE this season, so I did. I helped 8 families this Thanksgiving and Christmas and I can't even describe  the overwhelming feeling of seeing their tears and happiness. They didn't need to say a word.

A few days before Christmas my children drew many beautiful pictures to give to others as a random act of kindness. We set out on our journey and randomly gave people these pictures that were drawn. It was amazing to see the looks on people's faces that we felt needed to smile or needed HOPE. My children loved the idea and kept wanting to make more and more pictures to give to people! They were so excited!

Christmas Eve, is my Grandfather's birthday. He had a very strong faith and was always at church, ushering and helping every week. My children and I attend chruch every week and always attend the Christmas Eve service. It's a very emotional night for me. I really can feel my Grandfather's presence every year on that night. After the service my children went to spend the night with their father. This would be my first Christmas Eve/Christmas morning without them. I prayed to God to give me strength and to give me HOPE that this was going to be ok. I can do this.

When I came by my house after church to pick up something, I noticed a Christmas tin can and a note on my doorstep. I thought how nice, someone left cookies! I reached down to pick it up with one hand and realized I couldn't! I thought there has to be 15 pounds of cookies in this thing! I set my purse, etc down and picked it up and opened it. My jaw dropped!!! I read the note about how this family saves all year. They prayed to God to lead them to a family to give this to and it was me. I was just in pure shock. It took two days for it to really sink in. I told a church friend what happened and she said, "you are always helping others every day and now it's your turn." I have never had anything like this happen to me. It's truly an amazing gift!!!!!! I want to thank the family who did this and let them know my heart over flows with joy at what they did! God Bless your family!!! I will pay it forward again and again!!

'I am completely inspired and i have a new hope for life'

Mandan, ND:

For the past few months I was in a very low part in my life. Recently I had gotten out of a very bad relationship. Everthing was starting to get better. I had found out I was pregnant with my recent ex's child. I didnt know who to turn to but i was releived to be going to a church retreat to the Badlands. Ive been to these retreats before but I had never gone in December. There was a small gift exchange on the first night. Everyone had a gift by the end of the night yet there were a few small gifts left, some people had brought extras. Being i had helped clean up i was given one of the exta gifts. I unrapped a book titled "Christmas Jars" I did not get a jar myself but i started reading this book and i finished it about a half hour ago. I'm so amazed by the story that I cant wait to start my own jar! In fact I finished a jar of salsa earlier and decided to clean it and reuse it. Now i know exactly how. Anyways i plan to start my own tradition of the Christmas Jars along with a copy of this book to whoever i give it to. I also plan to include my child in the tradition and read this story to him/her every Christmas. I am completely inspired and i have a new hope for life!

'I was taken back like an angel reached down'

Middlesex, NJ:

I have become the guardian of my special needs 13 year old grandson after the dealth of my daughter.  Needless to say, we weren't looking forward to Christmas this year. On Christmas Eve, a Christmas bag was left on my boyfriend's doorstep for my grandson and I as I live in a town nearby. Inside was the most heart felt note of love and hope and it was filled with coins and dollar bills. When I looked inside, I was taken back like an angel reached down and said "Christmas is going to be ok".  I cried. Its a wonderful feeling knowing you are thought of at times of mourning and when life dishes out the unthinkable! Thank you whoever you are!

'I had absolutely no Christmas spirit this year'

Alexandria, VA:

I was loaned a copy of The Christmas Jars by my sister in law.  I read it and loved the story.  For 2012 I decided to keep my own jar.  

Then in June.  I lost my Mom.  Christmas was her season.  She is the reason I understand the true meaning of Christmas.  I knew this Christmas would be a hard one with her celebrating in Heaven, but I didn't know how hard.

I had absolutely no Christmas spirit this year.  I felt none of the usual joy and excitement as December approached...until it came time to deliver my jar.

My husband and I learned of a family who are new immigrants to this country.  They have had a very hard time since arriving.  I knew they were the destination for the jar!  My husband also suggested we do more than the jar.  We bought a grocery gift card and presents for all three family members.  We wrapped and waited for the fateful day!

Delivering the packages was one time I felt the joy this Holiday. I pray that the family who received the gifts feel as much joy as I did delivering them.

'In October we received the news that my husband has stage 4 kidney cancer'

Woodstock, VA:

In October we received the news that my husband has stage 4 kidney cancer.  Later on in October we also found out that I had a cyst on my ovary and had to have a operation. On December 14th we went to the dr to have my staple taken out and when we came home there was a jar and a book laying on the carport at the door the jar had 300.00 in it and we have no idea who gave it. We are truly by someone's kindness.

'I can only thank those that were kind enough to send my family a Christmas Jar through this post'

Woodstock, VA:

My wife and I are truly blessed to be the parents of three awesome little boys. Our first is now two, and the twins are now six months. When the twins were born, we found out that one of the boys has down syndrome. This came as a quite a shock, but we quickly altered our life plans and began preparing for a new destination for our lifelong trip as a family. The road has been, and will likely continue to be, a bumpy one, as most families can attest to, but for our middle son, this road will be a true test. With all that has happened within our family, the support we have seen, and been lucky enough to have, has been an inspiration. Our family has been instrumental in our successes, and the support pouring in from the community has been a true miracle.

A small piece of this miracle has been the Christmas Jars that my family has received. I never would have thought that my family would receive a precious gift such as this, but these little gifts are huge. The year of 2012 will be remembered as a tough but glorious time for my family. I can only thank those that were kind enough to send my family a Christmas Jar through this post...so thank you to whoever you are. I barely have words to express my gratitude.

'I was dreading the holidays'

Locust Grove, VA:

It had been a really rough year. My husband and I had lost 3 beloved pets and struggled financially. The final blow was when he fell from our hay loft and broke his back. Since August, it has been one surgery afer another, IV treatments for infection,therapy and alot of re-adjusting.  

My family basically abandoned us with the exception of my brother. I was dreading the holidays. At work one night, I found a brown bag on my work station. I am a bartender. It just said to make sure I got the package.  There was a jar inside with coin and cash. There was also a lovely note of love and faith. And also the book "Christmas Jars". I read the book with grave facination and was touched by the story. I have already started my own Christmas Jar for next year. I hope I can do for someone what this gift did for me. Thank you.

'Thank you to who ever gave us this thoughtful gift'

Norristown, Pa:

As I opened my front door to go to work on christmas day, I seen this jar with a bow on top full of coins. My mom was in the kitchen and I called her over and to show her what I found. The both of us were wondering where it came from and we look on the tag it said "To:??, From: christmasjars.com". We looked out the door and didnt see anyone. We felt so blessed that we will decide to do a Chistmas Jar next year. Thank you to who ever gave us this thoughtful gift.

'Why not share the fun, right?'

Oregon City, Oregon:

For 5 years we have been delivering a Christmas jar to someone in need.  This has been a highlight of the season for our entire family.  What I love most about the Christmas jar is that it is something I see daily, so I'm always thinking about Christmas, or rather, Christ.  

We bought a jar that has a lid that you deposit the coins in and it counts it, which has been fun for my children to see the amount growing and growing until the day we deliver.  It has been inspiring too seeing my children deposit their own change, contributing to the gift.  

This year, I was unsure who should receive the jar, and was directed to ask our local elementary school counselor if she had any idea of a family that might be in need.  When I told her who I was and what my desire was she said, "I just finished reading that book for the first time."  She said she would  think about which family and let me know. The next day I received an email from her and she told me there was a single mom of two children, and her youngest that goes to school, a 1st grader, just found out she had cancer, and so she thought this would be a wonderful gift to her.  I decided that was perfect, and that she, the counselor, should deliver the jar along with the book.  I thought it might be fun for the counselor to deliver it right after having just read the book.... Why not share the fun, right?

I later heard the mother receiving the jar was extremely grateful.  I will most likely never know what has happened with the recipients of the jars we fill, but that is not important.  Knowing it was a blessing in their life, and that me and my family could help give to someone else is enough for me.  There is nothing quite as sweet a feeling as serving others and helping to bring joy into someone's life.

'We gave our first Christmas Jar to a neighbor this year'

Stockton, Kansas:

We gave our first Christmas Jar to a neighbor this year. We had been saving our change all year for another purpose of our own, but when we heard about this, we decided our own needs were nothing compared to those of our neighbor, a single mother with a 12-year-old son. We put it in one of two tubs filled with groceries and had a third box filled with gifts for the two of them. That same day, we started filling our jar again for next year.

'Inside the bag was a jar filled with change and bills'

Lincoln, NE:

I came to work after the Christmas holidays and there was a gift bag addressed to me, left by someone anonymous I am told. Inside the bag was a jar filled with change and bills, candy, and two lovely christmas ornaments. Also, was a Christmas card with a message indicating I had been chosen to receive this gift and to pass it along and write a message on this website. Also, was a leatherbound devotional book and the Christmas Jar novel, which I fully intend to read. What a wonderful random act of kindness this is! I had not heard of this tradition and look forward to filling the jar throughout the year and passing it along during the holiday in 2013.

'There were four christmas jars left on my back doorsteps'

Saint Francisville, Louisiana:

My kids and I had left the house on Christmas Eve to attend the 7:30 p.m. church service.  When we returned there were four christmas jars left on my back doorsteps filled with nickels, quarters, dimes, dollar coins and bills.  I am a single parent raising my two children and lost my mother to cancer in April of this year.  My children are my inspiration and we have grown very close since my seperation from their father.  One is in college, the other a junior in high school.  We weren't planning anything special for Christmas and they knew we weren't going to have an extravagant one spending more than I could afford.  When we arrived home and found the jars we were astounded.  We wondered who would have done such a deed.  My children immediately began thinking of how they would begin their own jars to save throughout the year and had begun thinking of who they wanted to share them with.  The conversations we've had since the receipt of the jars have been wonderful and has proven to be a real inspiration.

'We pray that our tradition will have eternal consequences'

Middletown , VA:

This year marked the 5th year we have delivered a Christmas jar to an unsuspecting family. Our tradition has developed to the point where my children now place their extra change and bills in the jar, which is remarkable considering they are 15 and 10. Each year we pray for God to suggest a family for our jar and this year, we had not felt directed to any particular area in our town. The day prior to Christmas Eve, I opened my Facebook account to find an urgent request from a friend stating that she had just visited a single mom with 3 children who had nothing for Christmas. In fact, the family didn't even have a tree. I knew this was my answer, so I immediately wrapped up the jar, put it in a gift bag, along with the book and some other small items for the children. I also included a note to the recipient explaining the relationship between God's gift of a Savior and our gift to them. For without the gospel, our good works are just works.

My 10 year old son has always been the delivery man of the family since he is quick and able to get away without being seen. He was so excited that it was time to drop the jar off! We obtained the address from the friend who made the appeal and off we went to town to leave our Christmas jar. Upon arriving in front of the house, my little boy jumped out of our car and ran quickly to the door. He looked for a doorbell, but there wasn't one, so he knocked and then ran to hop into the van as we headed for a spot further up the street. We turned around hoping to see if we could catch a glimpse of someone taking the bag, but it had already been safely carried inside. We left knowing that this family would have some means to celebrate Christmas. This tradition is one of the highlights of our holiday, since we know it has such a powerful impact. We thank God that we are able to share the blessings of this life with others who may not know Him. We also pray that our tradition will have eternal consequences!

'This is my 3rd year to deliver my Christmas Jar'

Clermont, Florida:

This is my 3rd year to deliver my Christmas Jar and it far was the best experience to date.  I scoped out the place of the "drop" in early December so I was prepared. We decided to give the jar on Christmas eve day and off we went. I knocked on the door and heard "who's there"  put the jar down and ran like I stole something.  If you could see my chest pounding--it was the best feeling like I was doing "something bad" yet I was doing "something good" feeling. I made it to the car-- and smiling all the way home, happy as a lark. Merry Christmas.  I am truly blessed.

'I was in shock as I picked it up'

Clermont, FL:

On Christmas eve as soon as it got dark, the door bell rang. We Recieved a Christmas Jar and book at the door step. I never seen or heard about this. I was in shock as I picked it up. It was so heavy full of bills and coins. I brought in in the house and as we red the beginning of the book I was in tears, cause my first reaction was to return it. We have no idea who left it. It couldn't have come at a better time! It was a blessing, a Christmas surprise, very much needed.We are behind on the bills to make it a great Christmas for the kids, this will help a little to get us caught up. We truly would like to thank who ever left it. So thank you and God bless.

'I sat on the floor and cried'

Keeseville, NY:

On Christmas Eve morning, I opened my door to let our dog out and noticed a box on the front porch.  I pulled it inside and opened the bad and saw two big jars of coin.  Inside one jar were bills.  When my husband and I opened it it was $600 in bills plus more in change.  I sat on the floor and cried.  I have no idea who put this on my doorstep, but our family is so appreciative.  We will be paying it forward next year.  I have told this story to everyone so they too can find hope, and faith in humanity.  Thank you so much to whoever you are!

'It made me just cry...so sweet..'

Spokane, Washington:

Someone knocked at my door tonight around 10 pm Christmas Eve and left this jar full of money ...with a card that said dinners on them. I don't even have a clue who they are, I have no words to express the heart felt filling I had ...It made me just cry...so sweet.. I didn't do Christmas this year and didn't have any money for gifts, was feeling a little down and alone for christmas when this happen changed everything, I felt LOVED...:)

'I was shocked to see a uniformed officer standing at my doorstep'

Shen. County, VA:

This year has been a tough one, but a blessed one. I am a single mother of 4 kids. Last night as I was trying to finish preparations for the kids' Christmas, I got a knock on the door. I couldn't imagine who would be here that time of night. I was shocked to see a uniformed officer standing at my doorstep. He told me "Merry Christmas, handed me the jar, and said all that he could tell me is that it was a gift from Jesus.

I can't stop crying over how blessed I am. Praise God that people still care, and still think of others. What a blessing! We will be putting out our own Christmas jar throughout the next year!

'This is what the spirit of Christmas is all about'

Norristown, Pennsylvania:

Woke up Christmas morning, December 25, 2012. Made my entire dinner by 2:00pm. With the help of my youngest daughter, whom is home from college for the holidays.

We did not have any plans for the day, but to relax around the house and enjoy ourselves, when a friend of mine just happened to come by.

I live in an apartment with my own private entrance, when I opened the door to let my friend in, he was standing there with this jar of money with a big sparkly blue bow.

Immediately he let me know that someone must have left the jar on my steps, and that it wasn't from him.

WOW!!! I thought to myself as I called out for my daughter to come see. Christmasjars.com was taped on the side of the jar. I went directly to the website, and now here I am! {smile...}

This is what the spirit of Christmas is all about! My daughter and I can't wait to give our Christmas jar for 2013! Love & Blessings...

'We will be paying it forward'

Highland, Michigan:

I received a Christmas Jar this morning and could not be more shocked. To whom ever has blessed me with this thank you and we will be paying it forward.

'God Bless whoever you are'

Zimmerman, MN:

We recently have had some really bad things happen to us which we are trying to cope with. The wonderful thing was to come home Christmas Eve day and find a Christmas jar filled with money saved along with the book "A Christmas Jar". It brought a smile to our faces knowing someone thought of us and didn't want any recognition for it. We plan to pass it forward to do the same thing for someone else. It is a reminder that there are some really wonderful people on this earth. God Bless whoever you are.

'The youth pastor approached me and handed me a very heavy gift bag'

Milton, PA:

I recently graduated from college and have been working part time at the local hospital. This housekeeping job is disgustingly grueling and I barely make enough money to pay for my student loans each month... 

Yesterday, Christmas Eve, was my birthday and I attended the church service like I always do. At the end of the service, the youth pastor approached me and handed me a very heavy gift bag. She told me that someone noticed my daily financial struggles and wanted to bless me. She also mentioned that it wasn't her but she knew who it was and that it was to remain a secret. When I got home last night and opened the bag, I was shocked to find a book and huge mason jar full of coins!

This gift was such a blessing to me, especially since my next loan payments are due in a week! God bless you all!

'I went to our Christmas Eve service at Church and felt very lonely'

Craig, CO:

I went to our Christmas Eve service at Church and felt very lonely. I came home and started crying. The Lord told me "You are not alone".

I woke this morning, opened the front door (very rare occassion at this time of morning) and found this jar on my door. This was the gift of Jesus Christ using one of His special children to show me 'I'm not alone!'.

'You have made a difference in a family's Christmas this year'

East Bend, North Carolina:

I am a quilt instructor to 15 students.  This idea was presented to me last year from a very good friend.  I presented it to my students last January w/a book given to each one.  Nine of my students took part.  Occassionally we would discuss the jar through the year.

When December rolled around, they were excited to be able to share their bounty.  I have a friend in church who works for Family Services so getting addresses of low income families was not a problem.

My quilters gathered on Christmas Eve at my home for goodies and wassil and the addresses in hand.  We piled in two cars each w/an address.  My people in my car prayed before we left.  We knew this could make a Christmas for a family that might go w/out.

As instructed for each address we either knocked or rang a door bell.  As each family came to the door, we handed a jar full of money to each receipient, said Merry Christmas and may God Bless you, then left.

No embrassment on the receipent's part and what a blessing we received.  We now know who these individuals are not by name but address and plan on doing something every quarter for each of these families. 

Thank's Christina for sharing such a wonderful story.  And thank you quilt group of Enon Baptist Church for your generosity throughout the year.  You have made a difference in a family's Christmas this year.

'I was sitting home Christmas Eve feeling all alone'

Lakeland, FL:

I was sitting home Christmas Eve feeling all alone. I have four Son's but only one that lives close by. I have two Son's in the Army, one that has served 2 tours in Iraq the other that was just commissoned 2nd LT at 23 yrs old,and the other two are also doing amazing things in their lifes. I have so much to be thankful for. In fact last Christmas eve the Son that was in Iraq surprised me on Christmas eve, he was home from Iraq.

Well a lot has happened in the last two years, my husband decided he wanted a divorce, our house is in a short sale, I had to move into an apartment by myself and I am disabled and get very little every month plus what my soon to be ex-husband gives me, our Business of 16 years closed the end of May 2012, we were forced to file bankruptcy and then here it was Christmas all of a sudden.

I did not even want to put up a tree or decorate, I knew I could not afford to buy anyone gifts and just could not get that Christmas Spirit I always had. I have been worried every week if I can by groceries or get gas for my car, or by my medicine that keeps me alive.

I prayed and prayed and cried, what to do? I finally put a 2ft Christmas tree up, but most of all prayed, and prayed for all of the ones that didn't have all the wonderful things I have been blessed with. I prayed that God bless them in ways that would change their life.

So again Christmas eve all alone I was getting texts from my Son's and the one that lives close by said "Mom someone knocked on our door and when we answered it no one was there. But I looked down and there was this jar and card with your name on it."

He brought it right over. I opened the card, it was signed God Bless you, Secret Friends. The jar was filled with coins and cash, I haven't even counted it yet, that doesn't matter at the moment. The card said to go to this website. I feel like a little child on Christmas that has been blessed with a whole bunch of gifts. Wow comes to mind.

Thank you God, Thank you to all the ones that have been praying for me and helped make this possible. I now have the spirit alive inside me. I will start a Christmas Jar right away for a special someone for next year. I just can not explain the feeling I have right now.

Thank you for giving to the Lord.....Merry Christmas Everyone

'This may have given me a little pushin my faith of humanity'

Sevierville, tennessee:

My name is Jeff. It is Christmas eve 2102 and last month i had my second collapsed lung in 3 months. I was sitting in my favorite chair beside our Christmas tree with my two year old son in my lap watching a movie. My girlfriend went upstairs to put on her Christmas pajamas. As i hear the floor creak as she is about to walk down i hear two quick but hard knocks on the door. Katrina opens the door almost immediately to find not a person in sight but a full jar of money and a book called Christmas jars with my name on it. This may have given me a little pushin my faith of humanity. Thank you so much.

'We feel so blessed to receive this gift'

Export, Pennsylvania:

We came home from a relatives house on Christmas Eve and tripped over a small bag in front of our door. Upon closer inspection, this bag contained a jar and a book. We brought it inside into the light and saw the jar contained money. We hurried up and looked 'Christmas Jars' up and saw that this is actually something very kind people do. We feel so blessed to receive this gift, and will make sure that we will make it a family tradition to pass along a Christmas Jar to make other families as happy as we are.

'We need to pay this forward, and I mean tonight!'

Summerville, South Carolina:

We had just finished our first Christmas Eve with our "new" grandchildren. Even though each child received just one present from "grandma" Jo and "grandpa" Larry, they seemed truly grateful for his or her gift. It was special seeing the love our daughter has for her new partner and his three beautiful children, and his obvious love for her in return. At that moment, we felt truly blessed.

A knock at the door interrupted our reverie. It was fairly late to be having visitors, so my wife peeked out the door but saw no one there. Except...for a small gift bag on the doorstep and the sound of running feet fading into the distance. Perplexed, she brought the package in and opened it in the kitchen. Tears began to well up in her eyes as she exclaimed "It's a Christmas Jar!"

I had forgotten that the year before, her sister, terribly sick from breast cancer, had received a similar jar so that she and her family could celebrate what was probably to be her last Christmas on this earth. The difference it made for them, saddled with the debts from her treatments, made all the difference in the world. What a selfless act of love! I understood now why my wife was crying; this anonymous gift not only proved to us that Angels really do exist, but it connected her with her sister who could not be here to witness such generosity.

As we stood around the jar, thinking of the loved ones in our lives that are no longer with us, my daughter said "We need to pay this forward, and I mean tonight!" Her good friend had been broken into a week before Christmas. All of her child's birthday and Christmas presents had been stolen, along with the household appliances, but most painfully, her grandmother's jewelry which had been passed down to her. Without hesitation my wife said "Yes, let's take this precious gift and use it to give our friends some sort of Christmas. Otherwise, they will have nothing to open on Christmas day."

As I sit and write this short tale, my loved ones are out on Christmas Eve looking for a television for a family that is in greater need than us. And to me, that is the real story that the Christmas Jars epitomize. Loving, caring, sharing with one another, whether we have ever met or not. And thanking God for every Blessed minute we spend with our family and friends until we all meet again one day in His loving arms.

God Bless all the Christmas Jars tonight.

'We will be passing on this kind gesture'

Dayton, Nevada:

It was late December 23rd, when I realized I forgot something in the car.  I stepped out my door and tripped over this package.  In the package was a Christmas Jar and the novel Christmas Jars.  I got right on the computer and started investigating.  We will be passing on this kind gesture and adding it to our family holiday traditions.

Thank you anomous gifter, your gift will be shared by our family and continue to spread the cheer.

'Last year we recieved a christmas jar'

Columbus , Indiana:

Last year we recieved a christmas jar, we were kinda a blown away to the fact we received one, and really wondered why. we didn't know why.  How ever this year we have decided to return this christmas spirit.  As I was looking for someone to share this with, I really wasn't able to think of anyone really in need.  So I asked a customer if they knew anyone.  I am very grateful we did.  We have now got a home with a husband and wife that have went above and beyond and have sheltered 12 U.S veterans that have come back from there services and not been able to get back on there feet.  I'm truly grateful that we have the oppurtunity to spread a little light on these soldiers lifes.

'It is as if our angel in heaven has helped me'

Elizabeth, IL:

Christmas without a Dad.

I hosted my family's Christmas dinner last night, and when my mother left she came back to the door a moment later.  She had a blue gift bag in her hand and told me she found it hanging on our fence.  I pulled out the jar full of money and the lovely little book.  We looked for a tag or a note, but the gift was left anonymously.  I shouted to my Mom, "Oh my God Mom...there are 20s in the jar too!"  I stayed up all night to read the story Christmas Jars.

I cried tears of happiness and joy as I turned each page.  Some anonymous stranger has helped our family understand Christmas in a whole new way.

I was very sad last night as I was preparing the Christmas meal for my family, because my boyfriend and son's father has just passed away in November.  We used to make this meal for the family together every year, and his death has made Christmas a little sad for all of us.  I tried to hang on to the hope and happiness, but really struggled all day to keep my spirits up.  Losing the emotional and parental partnership has been difficult this last few weeks, but losing the financial partnership was making Christmas difficult too.  Now with my Christmas Jar, it is as if our angel in heaven has helped me to give our children another Christmas gift from their Dad even though he is no longer here with us.

I am pledging to begin my own Christmas Jar for next year.  Because a stranger touched us with this gift, we will Christmas in our hearts all year long.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!  This experience has not only saved Christmas for our entire family, it has given us a purpose to fullfill this wish for someone else in need next year.