Evelyn Judson
Stewardship is the notion that we need to give of ourselves to take care of our church and the rest of the world. The phrase “time, talent, and treasure” is used to define the possibilities of what we have available. Gifts of treasure are vital to the church; we need financial support to continue our mission, to pay our clergy and staff, and to maintain our infrastructure. We all need to contribute. But giving financially, even generously and joyfully, is still a step removed from the core workings of the parish.
So we come to “time and talent”. Sunday school teachers, the Altar Guild, the choir, those who show up on workdays, or to cook pancakes, or help with church mailings. Many contribute to all the routine jobs that transform a church into a family. At Nativity we do that very well.
I believe “time and talent” needs to encompass more than routine and traditional jobs. It needs to be the very core of our corporate being. So, I would like to add a new stewardshipcategory. Imagination. What does each individual member see in our church and our world that goes beyond our family and routine? How do each of us give our own vision to the greater whole? How can we encourage and develop not only our own concepts, but those of every other member? This, after all, is what we affirm when we repeat our Baptismal vows.
I challenge every Nativity member today to think about what it is that you love to do? How can that love contribute to the Church of the Nativity and to our greater community? Do you write, draw, or sing? Scrub floors with joy? Fix lawnmowers, plant tomatoes or feed people? Do you love to pray for others? Consider your strengths and limitations and imagine how you can use them to love God, love your neighbor, and change the world.