The concept of stewardship is an ancient tradition in the Church but is often rarely mentioned beyond the context of
tithing and parish finances. The USCCB begins their page on stewardship with this passage from I Peter: “As each one
has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” We, as Catholics, have a
history and a tradition of prayer, of calling upon God for guidance and caring for those in the margins of society. We
have a community that encourages us to live out the love of Christ for our neighbors. As Catholics we are called to lead the way in helping those in need.
Our Father in heaven is a good father who cares for his children. It is through his people, the Church that he acts. As
a servant of God, Archbishop Fulton Sheen once said, “Show me your hands. Do they have scars from giving? Show me your feet. Are they wounded in service? Show me your heart. Have you left a place for divine love?”
I know we live in what feels like a deeply troubled time in our country and world, but if we let fear rule us, we have no
room for love. Is it really the large institutions that determine our national fate, or the many actions or inactions of
everyday people in ordinary situations? In the Hobbit, J. R.R. had Gandalf remind us, “Some believe it is only great power that can hold evil in check but that is not what I have found. It is the small everyday deeds of ordinary folks that keep the darkness at bay, small acts of kindness and love.” Let us continue to go forth in prayer, with Christ the Servant in our hearts, and love our neighbors as He taught us.
Love, Deacon John