The Importance of Good Stewardship

Maria Montemayor

Thursday, June 1, 2023

Photo by RDNE Stock project

Last month, I watched a YouTube video where the host spoke about setting aside money first for giving when getting paid. While I thought that was a good practice and others in the comment section agreed, I was surprised by the amount of people who thought the advice was unrealistic.

Although many people can be skeptical about giving when they have financial concerns, everything we have comes from God: our food, shelter, family, livelihood, and friends. And everything He gives to us, we are entrusted to care for and be responsible for. As the recipients of many graces and blessings bestowed on us from God, we are called to be good and generous stewards.

The poor widow in Mark 12:41-44 gave everything she had without fear:

“He sat down opposite the treasury and observed how the crowd put money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. A poor widow also came and put in two small coins worth a few cents. Calling his disciples to himself, he said to them, ‘Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all the other contributors to the treasury. For they have all contributed from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has contributed all she had, her whole livelihood.’”

Many people might hesitate to give away even some of their money or material possessions, but Jesus saw the poor widow’s action as commendable.

What does good stewardship look like?

Being a good steward is about sharing our time, talent, and treasure with God and others. If we love God and are aware of His love for us, He can transform us to give of ourselves freely and sincerely, without counting the costs. Accepting the outpouring of God’s love can help us deepen our love for Him and for others. Here are some tips to get started:

Set aside time for personal prayer, Adoration, and Mass. Those moments can help you discern how to use the rest of your time, as well as your skills and resources, more prudently and effectively.

Make sure immediate family members feel God’s love through our presence, words, and actions. As Christians, we’re called to minister to those in our immediate care before we can minister to others.

Volunteer at church, events, or other places like retirement homes or homeless shelters. Many venues need volunteers in order to function and run smoothly. On a smaller scale, offer to help and support relatives, friends, and neighbours. Many people might welcome and appreciate your company.

Tithe to parishes and donate to meaningful causes or non-profit organizations (for example, you can donate to Salt + Light Media). It’s okay to start off small and slowly increase the amount as you feel more comfortable. Following a written-out budget can help you feel more secure in knowing where your money goes. Many charities also accept used or brand new clothing and non-perishable food.

At the end of the day, God knows and understands our hearts. No matter what difficulties we may face, He only gives us what we can handle. He wants us to make decisions that glorify Him and that help others along the way. We can never outdo God in generosity, so let us love and give out of our abundance, and let us grow in holiness as stewards of His blessings.