Stewardship
"As each one has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God's varied grace" (1 Pt 4:10)
What identifies a steward? Safeguarding material and human resources and using them responsibly is one answer; so is generous giving of time, talent, and treasure. But being a Christian steward means more. As Christian stewards, we receive God's gifts gratefully, cultivate them responsibly, share them lovingly in justice with others, and return them with increase to the Lord.
The life of a Christian steward models the life of Jesus. It is challenging and even difficult, in many respects, yet intense joy comes to those who take the risk to live as Christian stewards. Women and men who seek to live as stewards learn that "all things work for good for those who love God" (Rom 8:28).
Stewardship Prayer
Gracious God,
make me a true steward of your bounty,
where there is a need – let me see it;
where there is abundance – let me share it;
where there is time – let me spend it wisely;
and where there is treasure – let me use it for your glory.
Amen