Speeches
A Jar, A Choice, and the Power of Quiet Service: A Message from “Christmas Jars” Author Jason Wright
What began years ago as a simple jar filled with spare change has grown into a worldwide tradition of generosity. On Dec. 5, Jason Wright, bestselling author of “Christmas Jars” and Southern Virginia University adjunct professor, shared that story and its lasting impact during the university’s annual Christmas Forum.
Wright reflected on the first year of the Christmas Jar, a modest tradition that began during a low point in his life. Seeking a more meaningful way to celebrate Christmas, his family began collecting spare change in a jar and anonymously giving it to someone in need. That small decision sparked a tradition that would eventually inspire Wright’s bestselling novel and resonate with families around the world.
“I thought maybe a few people would read the novel and want to have a similar experience,” Wright said. “I had no idea that over the course of the next year, thousands of jars would be given away around the world, that the book would allow me to begin writing full-time, and ultimately, that it would lead me to this room with all of you today.”
Over time, Wright has watched his family’s tradition grow into a widespread movement, shaped by stories from those who adopted the practice and from families whose lives have been touched by it. One story he shared was about five-year-old Cameron, who was battling brain cancer. Despite his illness, Cameron chose to use his Christmas Jar money in a way that reflected pure generosity and compassion.
On Christmas Eve, Cameron received nearly $500 anonymously. Rather than keeping it for himself, he asked about the other kids at the hospital and if they would feel loved like he did. Cameron then decided to use the money to buy gifts for other patients, keeping nothing for himself.
“That little boy embodied the spirit of giving,” Wright said. “He showed that love is meant to be shared.”
Wright also shared a more recent experience about a homeless man he had befriended, someone who confided that he often felt invisible, that even God had forgotten him. Around the same time, a class at Southern Virginia University had been collecting gift cards to give to someone in need. Wright was able to pass those gifts along, offering the man a small but powerful reminder that he was not forgotten.
“Through Christmas Jars or simple acts of kindness, this theme has emerged again and again in my life,” Wright said. “Some people feel invisible, forgotten, or unloved. Especially during this season, it’s our responsibility to remind them that God loves them and that we are called to reflect that love in our own actions.”
“Life is full of trials and obstacles, and it’s easy to forget the love of God,” Wright continued. “I’ve had days when I’ve forgotten it myself—until my wife, a student, or even a stranger reminds me. God knows the sound of your voice, He knows your name. And He loves you, even when life makes you feel unseen or alone.”
Wright testified that the power of service lies not in grand gestures, but from small, consistent acts of love—spare change in a jar, a meal for a stranger, or compassion offered at just the right time.
The forum also featured musical performances by the university’s choirs, bands, and orchestras, including selections such as the “Polar Express Medley,” “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen,” “You Better Sleigh,” and “Sussex Carol.”