A Stewardship Moment

September 2, 2012 Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time
In the reading from the letter of St. James we are urged to be “doers” of the Gospel, not just listeners. Being a “steward” of God’s Word is a matter of listening to the Good News, embracing the Good News and putting the Good News into action in our day-to-day lives. And whenever we are uncertain as to what decisions to make or actions to take as good stewards of the Gospel, St. James reminds us: We can never go wrong if we resist popular values that are not compatible with the Gospel, and we come to the aid of those who are burdened, distressed and poor.

September 9, 2012 Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time
St. James teaches that those who are poor in the eyes of society are the ones who have been chosen to inherit the Kingdom of God. Indeed, we are saved because of our poverty; we are redeemed out of our need; not because of our material wealth or achievements that the world finds praiseworthy. St. James also suggests that we are stewards of others, especially the poor; and it is how we respond to the poor and needy that will define our relationship with the Lord. How do we respond to the less fortunate right within our own parish?

September 16, 2012 Twenty-fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time
St. James asks what our love for Jesus Christ can possibly mean if it does not result in action on behalf of our neighbor. He suggests that that faith is demonstrated most acutely in care for the needy, the suffering, and the underprivileged. Stewardship includes proclaiming the Good News by putting our faith into action on behalf of others. In what ways have we been willing to make sacrifices and renunciations for the sake of Jesus Christ and our neighbor?

September 23, 2012 Twenty-fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
In today’s Gospel, Jesus continues to turn society’s idea of greatness upside down. He teaches that true greatness lies in being a servant to others; a good steward of our relationships. We want success, but Jesus defines success differently than we do. Jesus redefines our notion of greatness and success. How do we define success? Is our notion of success consistent with the teachings of Jesus Christ?

September 30, 2012 Twenty-sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time
St. James warns against accepting the standards of the world and assuming that what is normative in society needs no countercultural challenge. The temptation to hoard riches and make sharp bargains at the expense of the powerless is pervasive because these things are generally done and look respectable enough. St. James points to God’s judgment on these attitudes and actions of amassing wealth and comfort at the expense of others. How might we be better stewards of the material blessings we have been given? How might we use our wealth with compassion toward others?

Source: ICSC Newsletter 2012