How was I not familiar with Richard Paul Evans until last year? He is the king of Christmas Fiction according to The New York Times! Last year, I read, Finding Noel. This year, I am reading his classic, The Christmas Box.

I found this precious gem at the most adorable little bookstore, Copper Bell Bookshop, in Ridgefield, WA. If you haven’t read this book and want to, I highly recommend the 30th Anniversary edition. The Foreword was as enjoyable as the story itself.

Warning… if you are in the least bit sensitive or empathetic… you will cry. I cried before I reached page one.

The Christmas Box is a true telling of a certain Christmas season when Evans’ family was young, he was knee-deep in a new business venture and they found themselves living with and caring for a widow who quickly became family.

There was no literary grandeur or AHA! twists. No fireworks. Only a beautiful story of need, divine intervention, tragedy, and a lesson in the true meaning of Christmas. It was written simply and straight-forward. It felt familiar and comfortable. It was like a warm, homemade chocolate chip cookie.

The origin and impact of The Christmas Box is most impressive. Evans never planned to publish the story. It was meant only to be shared with a handful of people. Funny how God alters our plans.

Because of the success of this book, grieving parents around the globe find solace in Christmas Box Angels that have been erected. The Christmas Box International charity has helped over 140,000 children escape abuse, trafficking and neglect.

Richard Paul Evans could’ve never imagined what sharing his story would turn into; A world-changing, Christmas phenom. What if he would’ve chosen the safe route? The less vulnerable route? Sounds like It’s A Wonderful Life 2.0.

As I reflect and move on to my next Christmas read, I am going to ponder… What am I holding back to stay safe? To avoid being vulnerable? Let us all take a lesson from Evans… just take the next step. You never know how the world will be impacted.

Next up…

The Christmas Bookshop by Jenny Colgan.

What is your favorite Christmas story of all time?