Are You a Wise Investor? – A Stewardship Reflection
2024 is winding down, with a festive season just around the corner. The city will soon light up with colourful displays to remind us that Christmas is coming. We thank God for His unwavering guidance and provision. Let’s not rush into a flurry of activities. Instead, let’s focus on embodying the true essence of who He created us to be.
What is Stewardship?
A steward is a manager responsible for managing someone else’s property. He is not the owner.
As the Bible declares:
- “For every beast of the forest is Mine, And the cattle on a thousand hills.” (Psalm 50:10)
- “‘The silver is Mine, and the gold is Mine,’ says the Lord of hosts.” (Haggai 2:8).
- “Behold, all souls are Mine;” (Ezekiel 18:4a).
God’s Original Intent
God’s intention was for humanity to be His stewards tending to His creation. In the idyllic Garden of Eden, a harmonious bond existed between God and man, marked by open communication. Man was tasked with representing God in the management of the world.
God has bestowed upon us three invaluable gifts to fulfil this sacred purpose:
- Time: This is our most precious resource because it is irreplaceable. Once it passes, it’s gone forever. Every moment is an opportunity, a chance to create, to love, to learn, and to grow. Time is the currency of life, and how we spend it determines the richness of our experiences. Recognizing the finite nature of time compels us to use it wisely, to prioritize what truly matters, and to live each day with intention and purpose.
- Talent: Our unique abilities and skill; whether they be artistic, athletic, intellectual, or interpersonal; are meant to be cultivated and used to make a positive impact on the church and the world.
- Treasure: The material possessions and resources placed under our care; including our financial assets, our belongings, and the physical spaces we inhabit. By managing our material possessions wisely and using them to bless others, we can honour God and live a life of abundance.
A Steward’s Accountability
The Apostle Paul’s declaration, “Let a man so account of us, as of ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God” (1 Corinthians 4:1) serves as a powerful example of faithful stewardship with accountability.
The parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14–30) further underscores the importance of investing our resources wisely. The servant who buried his talent, neglecting his responsibility, faced the master’s disapproval.
A Call to Wise Stewardship
November is JCC’s stewardship month. Let’s embrace this opportunity to deepen our commitment to God’s work. By reflecting on the blessings we’ve received, we can express gratitude through generous giving of our time, talents, and treasure. Let’s volunteer our time to serve our community, share our unique abilities to uplift others within the church, and offer our resources to support the church’s mission and ministries. As we prioritize giving, service, and spiritual growth, we can strengthen our church community, impact our world, and bring glory to God.
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