When it comes to the resources God has provided us, there are two words that must define us: generous stewards. 

Let’s start at the end and work backwards: STEWARDS

“We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.” (Luke 17:10). I sure do wish Luke would have used a different word in sharing this particular teaching from Jesus. Of course, the eyewitness that shared this story with Luke may have remembered Jesus using the word “doulos” (which means slave, and is used in this verse) as compared to “oikonomous” (meaning steward).

A steward managed another’s household. They held a place of honor in the household, caring for the master’s possessions as if they were his own. The master depended on the household’s steward to make sure that everyone in the household (including family members and slaves) were cared for.

My pastor growing up was an expert in Christian stewardship. People liked to speak of a TITHE, or 10%, as being an appropriate offering. He reminded us that for stewards there is only one number that fits, 100%.  EVERYTHING we have, that is considered “ours,” that we often treat as our sole possession is truly GOD’S and is provided to us, for us to use and care for. 

And just like the household steward, our master (God) depends on us to make sure that everyone in God’s household (all of creation) are cared for.

That most-important adjective: GENEROUS

Lutheran Christians often have a reputation for being frugal, which can be a very helpful characteristic. As the old saying goes: “mind your pennies and the dollars take care of themselves.”  (The saying originated in late 17th century England.) HOWEVER, Christian Stewards are called by God to be GENEROUS with what God has provided.

I often brag about your generosity … the people of St. John’s. For decades you have provided generously for our school’s ministry, even and especially when school-based income does not cover the cost of that ministry. Other pastors ask me about how I am doing, especially as I near retirement. “I am grateful, the congregation I serve is generous.”

Could we use more money in the community chest (our congregation’s bank accounts)? YES! As you are able and willing, please provide more for our work together. But do so because God has called you to life as a GENEROUS STEWARD!