Stewardship
Time, Talent, Treasure
Stewardship of the God given gifts of time, talent and treasure are a disciple's response of thanksgiving to God. Mature disciples make a conscious, firm decision, carried out in action, to be followers of Jesus Christ no matter the cost to themselves. Beginning in conversion, or change of mind and heart, this commitment is expressed not in a single action, nor even in a number of actions over time, but in an entire way of life. It means committing one’s very self to the Lord.
Stewardship is an expression of discipleship with the power to change how we understand and live out our lives. Disciples who practice stewardship recognize God as the origin of life, the giver of freedom, the source of all they have and are and will be. They are deeply aware of the truth that “The Lord’s are the earth and it’s fullness; the world and those who dwell in it.” (Ps.24:1) They know themselves to be recipients and caretakers of God’s many gifts. They are grateful for what they have received and eager to cultivate their gifts out of love for God and one another. (See: “A Disciple’s Response,” 1993 U.S. Catholic Conference Washington, D.C. )
Stewardship is often misunderstood by Catholics as only tithing ten percent of one’s income. In Catholic teaching, stewardship is a return to God of the gifts God has bestowed on us. According to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, we are made for God and God alone. This life is a journey to be made in response to God’s love.
Time: We use the time God has generously given us to proclaim His love by loving God and neighbor. We have committed our lives through our Baptism to God, our Church community and for some, our primary responsibility is to our family.
Talent: We use our talent to help our families to live life fully and to know, love and serve God who says: “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” (Jn. 10:10)
Treasure: Our treasure is also a gift from God and should be gifted back to God in a just and loving manner. “Give and it shall be given to you….For the measure you measure with will be measured back to you.” (Lk. 6:38)
Stewardship, the proper use of our time, talent and treasure is the ethic on which the Lord will judge us. Stewardship used properly can bring peace of mind as we journey together to the Kingdom of God. Peace be with all of you.
Father Murphy