Christian stewards understand humbly that all they are and each thing that they possess is a gift. The appropriate responses to a gift are gratitude and accountability, the basic origins of stewardship. Good stewards are appreciative of how God has blessed their lives. They feel a sense of joyful gratitude in understanding that, truly, everything is a gift from God. Good stewards joyfully realize that they cannot equal God's generosity—so, the more they give, the more God gives them in return.
Often the messages that we receive from society conflict with the vision of Christian stewardship. Such messages tell us that we would be happier if only we had more possessions. They lead us to believe that we are entitled to all we have, only because we earned all these good things. Faith, however, tells us that real joy comes from the appreciation and sharing of God's gifts.
The U. S. Bishops' pastoral letter, "Stewardship, A Disciple's Response," tells us that we must:
Receive God's gifts gratefully,
Cherish and nurture the gifts responsibly,
Share the gifts in justice and love, and, and return the gifts with increase to the Lord.
Bishop Robert Morneau of the Diocese of Green Bay, Wisconsin, one of the writers of the pastoral letter, notes that stewardship requires a change from imagining ourselves as owners to seeing ourselves as trustees. This takes time but it brings about a sense of freedom and joyful generosity. We are challenged to take nothing for granted. Beginning with our appreciation, we give thanks to God by using our gifts in the love and service of others.
We can use our gifts and talents to serve our family, friends, neighbors, parish and community. When we develop our gifts by serving others, a sense of purpose and meaning grows in our lives. How often people say that in giving, they receive more than they give! Parishes offer ministries so that people of all ages can serve. Use what you have and also encourage others to use their gifts as well.
Everyone can be taught to be good stewards. Seniors, young adults, even children have gifts to share. Each of us can participate more in parish life. Scripture tells us: "As each one has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God's varied grace." (1:Peter 4:10)
Therefore, Stewardship is not just about giving money. It requires an attitude of thanksgiving, which leads to an accountable, generous, and joyful way of life. As good stewards, we account for all the gifts that God has placed in our care.
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