“But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?” 1 John 3:17 (KJV)
We know a steward is a person who is chosen to manage or supervise the affairs of another in their absence or presence. Therefore, to be chosen, that person would have had to display certain necessary characteristics, behaviours, or attitudes.
One essential characteristic of a steward in the Kingdom of God is generosity. While it is admirable to be morally sound and obedient to the law, it is expedient for us to be generous. Matthew 19:16-26 (found also in Mark 10:17-27) teaches us this principle. A young man went running after Jesus, knelt at his feet, and asked what he had to do to inherit eternal life. Jesus reminded him of God’s commandments: not to commit adultery, lie, kill, steal, bear false witness, or covet, but to honour one’s parents and to love one’s neighbor as oneself. The young man responded that he had been keeping the commandments from his youth and asked what more he lacked.
Jesus responded that if he wanted to be perfect, he should sell what he had, give to the poor, and return, take up his cross, and follow Him. The young man went away sorrowful because he had great possessions. Jesus concluded by affirming that it is hard for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Friends, the young man was financially wealthy and an ardent follower of the law of Moses; however, he was spiritually impoverished.
Jesus was not dealing with the possessions the man had gathered over the years. The Master was dealing with the state of the young man’s heart. He was ungenerous and, therefore, made himself unworthy of the promised treasures of heaven.
Beloved, all that we have, all that we are, was given to us to share with the world. This includes our giftings, talents, abilities, skills, time, love, compassion, and yes, our homes, food, vehicles, and everything else we have. Herein is love. Genuinely sharing is caring!
Prayer
Dear Father, please forgive us for not allowing Your love to reach others because of our selfishness. Help us to remember that all we have is freely given to us by You. Empower us to show others Your love by our cheerful giving. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Read: Matthew 10:7-8; Hebrews 6:10
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 119:129-136; Hebrews 1; Lamentations 3:40-66; Lamentations 4; Lamentations 5
