We were created for community. Human beings are not meant to be alone. As each of us grows in our relationship with Jesus, we find ourselves drawn further into community. Our stewardship never reflects just on us, but on the Body of Christ to which we belong.
When speaking to his Father, Jesus always spoke about all of us as a whole. Jesus has a unique relationship with each and every one of us, but he also sees us collectively as one. When the Holy Spirit was sent to assist us until the Second Coming, she ascended upon a multitude, not just one person at a time.
We are called to live a fruitful stewardship way of life. It is by that fruit that we can tell if we are really giving of ourselves in a generous manner. However, the fruits that result from my stewardship and your stewardship will never amount to more than what we can produce together.
As you try ever harder to cultivate what God has given you and offer it back to Him with an increase, what does your relationship with your parish community look like? How has your stewardship helped enable your community to become a clearer reflection of God? It is important to reflect on these things because we can sometimes find ourselves drifting away from community if we are not careful. We are always stronger together. We never want to wake up one day and find ourselves alone.
Tracy Earl Welliver is currently the Director of Parish Community and Engagement for LPI where he manages the company’s coaching and consulting efforts. He has spoken on and coached dioceses, parishes, and individuals on stewardship, engagement, strengths, and discipleship all over North America, Australia, and New Zealand.