Our Catholic tradition teaches us that with many blessings come many challenges. At every moment of our lives, we have the opportunity, and the responsibility, to share what we have been given.
Jesus is the first steward of all creation
At our Baptism we became followers of Jesus Christ. From this sacramental moment flows our commitment to Christ that makes stewardship possible, necessary and deeply rewarding. This is a lifetime commitment to action, and it requires sacrifice. Knowing the story of Jesus Christ provides us with the benefit of a role model of sacrifice for the greater good, a model of self-giving and loving service.
Hearing and responding to the call
Everyone has a calling, which is another way of saying that our walk with God is personal. When we hear the call to gratitude and responsibility, in our friendships and family, in our work, wherever we go, then taking the next step to answer that call is where Catholic stewardship begins.
In our parish faith community that response happens in a wonderfully rich, vibrant community of diverse and talented individuals. Each of us is encouraged to consider responding generously to God's call to a priestly or religious vocation, as well as to single or married life.
What does a Catholic steward look like?
· Catholic stewards take care of the world around them, including embracing the social teachings of the church.
· They work as partners with God in the redemption of the world.
· They respect human life and dignity.
· They protect the natural environment.
· They share their gifts (time, talents and treasures) with others.
In order to develop personally as a Catholic steward, it is necessary to spend time in prayer and reflection to be better able to recognize the gifts we receive from God. From this prayer and reflection we can then better discover how best to use those gifts for the benefit of others, and, of course, invite others to discern and share their gifts.
The challenges and rewards of stewardship
It is an incredible challenge to live in imitation of the life of Christ. We face obstacles, opportunities and challenges living in a fast-paced environment with multiple responsibilities. Our spiritual needs do not always get a chance to be nourished through prayer and action. However, a clear sense of purpose, nourished by the Eucharist and our rich Catholic tradition, opens the door for us to actively commit to a life of gratitude and responsibility, to thank God for his endless gifts, and then to decide what we can do to help the world.
The rewards include:
· Making a difference in people's lives.
· Becoming an active member of a fulfilling Catholic community.
· Discovering talents inside you, waiting to be used.
· Letting go of your worries and setting realistic goals in both your spiritual and secular life.
· Experiencing the amazing increase in God's presence that comes with a partnership with the Lord.
In conclusion, please reflect on the words of Bishop John J. McRaith of the Diocese of Owensboro, Kentucky.
"I am convinced that if we can make stewardship part of our faith life we can truly change the world. We can make this a much better place in which to live — not just for us, but for everyone. I am convinced of this because I am convinced that it will attack the selfishness that besets all of us. It turns the mine to ours; it turns self to others. It turns us from just loving ourselves to loving others as Jesus loves them."
This is the goal of our stewardship efforts in Our Lady of Grace Parish.