Our Quarters Ministry

My dad has such a giving heart. He’s always looking for opportunities to do something for someone. Helping others brings him great joy.

One thing he does for me continually is to collect quarters. Every time he breaks change at a store, he puts his quarters in a jar he keeps on the kitchen counter. When I go home to visit, he proudly presents me with his quarters, and we count them together. It’s become our thing.

This quarters thing started with him wanting to make sure I had enough money for a cup of coffee at work. (The sweetness of this gesture still brings tears to my eyes.) Lately, though, we’ve decided to be more strategic with what we do with the quarters. We call it our “quarters ministry.” Once I gave some to a gas attendant to help him do his laundry at the laundry mat. I also use them for tips for services that aren’t usually tipped. Most recently I’ve used them for locker rentals at our local jail when I go to visit inmates. I always keep some of dad’s quarters in my car in case I see anyone in need.

My dad is an extraordinary example of how the little things add up. In our case, change that you might ordinarily throw in your car console and never think of again has been converted into blessings. When you hand someone some quarters and say, “God bless you,” you are doing much more than giving them a few dollars in change. You’re making them feel seen. You’re creating a moment for them to feel God’s love and see it in action.

Dad and I can’t see the seeds we are sowing this side if heaven; we’re just trying to be kind and faithful and have fun while we do it. You, too, can find unique ways to bless people in your daily life. I encourage you to do so. I really believe you’ll find great joy in it.

And I do still occasionally get myself a cup of coffee at work with Dad’s quarters. The barista always chuckles when I pay with quarters and asks, “How’s your dad?”

My precious dad with his favorite of our dogs.