Stewards

Look at the birds in the sky; they do not sow or reap, they gather nothing into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. (Matthew 6:26)

When St. Francis of Assisi encouraged his brothers to persevere in their life of poverty, he often reminded them of today’s Gospel. “Let the friars minor imitate Brother Lark,” he once said. “He dresses simply, with the colors of the earth. Though he owns nothing, he doesn’t worry about food, for he eats from God’s hand. Brothers, all of God’s gifts are wonderful, but we cannot glory in them, for they are not ours to own. Except for one gift, the cross of Jesus. Jesus calls us to take up this gift of dying to self and possess it as our own. I revel in the glory of Jesus’ cross and nothing else!”

No, Jesus doesn’t call everyone to poverty. Yes, there is room in God’s kingdom for wealth. Think of Abraham, who owned great herds, and Joseph of Arimathea, who was influential enough to obtain an audience with Pilate. Rich or poor, our material blessings are not our own. We are just stewards under the lordship of Christ. So today, let’s ask the Spirit to search our hearts as we reflect on our attitudes toward money. Take a moment to consider three questions:

Am I pursing material possessions to the neglect of my spiritual well-being? If you think it’s true, don’t get bogged down in guilt. Instead, move money down a few pegs on your priority list. Remember who is supposed to be “possessing” whom! Now, find one way you can advance God’s kingdom instead.

Do I worry excessively about finances? God knows that it’s a real need. It’s also a common point of contention in marriage. Things don’t pay for themselves. But remember, you are so much more important to God than even “Brother Lark.” Get into the habit of asking God to help you keep your finances in perspective.

Can I find new ways to be generous? Generosity isn’t limited to money. God asks us to steward all of our resources. This means our time, unique skills, and the joy we’ve received from God. You can even be a steward of your personal knowledge of God! Look out today for one way that you can meet an important need with your generosity.

“Lord, I glory only in your cross and resurrection!”

from wau.org