The Gift of Time
Perhaps the most important act of Stewardship in today's hectic, secularized world is to realize that none of us "own" time. Each of us is given only so much of it, and planning a careful schedule in order to have the time to work, rest, play and pray is vital to the stewardship of our physical, emotional, spiritual and intellectual lives.
Technology has created many timesaving devices, yet we seem to have less time than ever. Our calendars fill without our consideration of whether we are making the best use of God's gift of time. We are given 24 hours each day. We must ask "How much of that time do I spend with God? How much time do I set aside for the people who need me?"
Disciples in Prayer
Because Christian stewards recognize God as the origin of life and the source of all we have and are, they know the power of prayer. We must weave prayer throughout our days, remembering the many we know whose needs we can lift to God in prayerful expectation. Praying for the persecuted, the victims of violence, the unborn, the church and those who minister to us, and asking God to guide those in worldly power.
Consider time shared as prayer
God did not create man alone; God created people and, through Jesus, gave us into each other's care. Beyond physical needs extends a realm of spiritual exchange, often unspoken, which occurs when we devote our full attention to those closest to us. Jesus said, "Where two or three are gathered in my name, there I am also." Thus, our families are the smallest church to which we belong, with the circle of our friends just beyond. With them, we pray in these ways, and more:
V Plan quality time for family.
V Enjoy the companionship of friends.
V Devote ample time for rest and recreation.
V Seek those without family and share yours.
V Seek one with no friends and be one.
Reflection
V Does God get the "best portion," or what's "left over?"
V Do I give quality time nurturing relationships?
V How much time each month do I contribute to a church or community ministry?