|
Joyful Generosity
We first must receive God's gifts gratefully. We are good stewards when we recognize and rejoice in out dependence on God, when we praise and thank the Lord for the many gifts we have been given. And one of the best ways to demonstrate our gratitude is to use those gifts to cultivate the talents and take advantage of our opportunities.
Next, the good steward cherishes and tends God's gifts responsibly. The steward in Biblical times was a person entrusted with the goods of another and responsible for managing property he did not own. He was chosen for that role because he was trustworthy. If I believe that all I have is a gift, that is not mine by right or entitlement but rather is lent to me by the Lord, I begin to understand how important it is to use God's gifts wisely and to be accountable for the ways I use them.
Then we are to share God's gifts with others. Approach your daily work with a spirit of stewardship. Recognize your skills and abilities as gifts from God and perform your duties with gratitude for the opportunity to employ them.
How to Live Stewardship Suggestions
Cooks and Bakers Prepare something for a person recovering from surgery or for new parents. Organize a bake sale to benefit those in need. Share your gift with an elderly person who does not get much company.
Mechanically Inclined Help a single parent trying to manage a household alone. Ask if someone in the parish needs a mower repaired.
Writers and Artists Find out if St. Bernard is in need of public relations guidance. Help draft newspaper ads for upcoming events. Create signs for the next parish or school function.
Heath Care Workers Sign up as a Special Minister to the Sick. When you bring Holy Communion to shut-ins, you can also minister to someone of their physical needs.
Athletes Coach a youth sports team or organize an event for other athletes to participate in.
Consider supporting others in their charitable ministries by giving a financial gift. Tradition calls for giving half of your donation to your parish and half to favorite charities with the church and your community.
Most importantly pray. Prayer on behalf of others is a gift of tremendous value that you can give no matter what your circumstances
| 
