The concept of Christian stewardship is typically associated with the holy triad of time, talent, and treasure. For our lives, for all of the time that God freely gives to us, and for the promise of eternal salvation, we devote a portion of our time to God through prayer and execution of His good works. In gratitude for all of the talent with which we are blessed, we use our skill to benefit others, to benefit the world, and to benefit God’s eternal Kingdom. And in thanks for our treasure, we share our wealth and earthly goods with the Church, with worthy causes, and with those in need.
When we realize that absolutely everything is a gift from God bestowed to us freely and lovingly, our natural inclination is to reciprocate. In the Pastoral Letter on Stewardship, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops explains that: “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.” Stewardship, therefore, begins with our gift back to God in appreciation for His providence and mercy.
Yet full participation as a Christian steward extends beyond the tithe. It is not simply about what we give, but it is also about how we live. Notably, Christian stewards are caretakers–not owners–of our very lives, tending to each moment we exist, each neighbor we encounter, each place we inhabit, and the Gospel we bear. Christian stewardship becomes a way of viewing the world, a posture of the heart, and a daily “yes” to God’s invitation to cooperate with His grace and contribute to His plan for redemption. Bound by a sacred trust that touches every fiber of our being and every relationship we hold, stewardship flows from the continuous surrender of all that we are in response to all that He gives. This month, we explore the stewardship journey from a universal perspective as we examine ministering to our world, our humanity, and our faith.
Christian stewardship includes caring for creation–the reverent tending of the earth as sacred ground. It is displayed by our decision to plant trees we may never sit beneath, to live simply so others may simply live, to conserve, to preserve, to erect, and to protect. Stewardship means accepting in humility that the planet does not belong to us as we utilize its resources, build for the common good, safeguard the endangered, and leave behind its splendor for future generations. We honor our Creator by honoring His creation and living responsibly.
It continues by honoring our humanity when we treat every person as a being made in the image of God. Stewardship is demonstrated by the way we speak to one another, lift up the vulnerable, welcome the stranger, embrace the lonely, promote justice, show mercy, and protect the sanctity of life. With each engagement, we are committed to the care of another soul.
Christian stewardship means displaying faith through love and service. It is feeding the hungry, comforting the grieving, standing beside the forgotten, and praying for everyone. Our works of charity shape our actions with compassion and conform us to Christ by extending his example of self-giving.
Stewardship also means passing on what we receive by making disciples. We are called to share not only our faith but our entire lives. We are stewards of the Good News, entrusted to multiply it in others through witness, invitation, and patient fellowship.
All of this manifests itself in journeying together–as Church, as community, and as companions in Christ. Stewardship is not a solo act; it is a common life. We bear each other’s burdens, celebrate each other’s joys, and grow together in love and truth. We are stewards of one another, walking humbly and faithfully together.
Christian stewardship is not merely an aspect of the Christian life. It is the Christian life. Although it is not easy, it is rewarding. God promises many blessings for disciples who dispense their gifts accordingly. In addition to life everlasting, He provides His care and protection for us. Good stewards experience inner peace, personal fulfillment, love, and happiness. Psalm 116:12 asks, “How can I repay the Lord for all the great good done for me?” Please share your insights with the group by posting a comment.
