St. Mary's - Stewardship

Stewardship - Gift of Time

Perhaps the most important aspect of Stewardship, especially in today's world, is the proper management of the gift of time.

Time is more fleeting than any talent and more precious than any treasure. It is ironic to think that technology has created many time-saving devices and yet we seem to have less and less time.

Calendars seem to fill without us even being aware of whether we are making the best use of our time. God gives us 24 hours each day - how much of that time do we spend with Him and with one another.

Average American’s Schedule:

50 hours – Work
45 hours – Sleeping
15 hours – Eating
12 hours - Watching TV
6 hours – Socializing
5 hours – Shopping
4 hours – Movies/Reading
3 hours – Sports Activities
2 hours – Hobbies
1 hour – Religious or Volunteering Activities

Something to ponder…By age 50, the average American will have spent 11 years in front of a television!

When we think about the stewardship of time, we think of time and talent being connected. One has to spend time giving of one's talent, so the two are obviously linked. But reflecting upon time alone gives further insights into the spirituality of stewardship.

Disciples in Prayer

The practice of stewardship has the power to change how we understand our lives. Christian stewards recognize God as the origin of life, giver of freedom, and the source of all we have and are. Christian stewards also know the power of prayer.

Communicating with God

Prayer has always been the cornerstone of the Christian experience. As we embark on our parish Stewardship journey we must realize that all good things come from God and we are what we are because of Him.

While individual prayer is the simplest form of praise to the Lord, Stewardship of Time asks for a commitment of allotting time for prayer.The intimacy of prayer must be captured at a dedicated, quiet time during the day. Just as we would make any other appointment, make an appointment with the Lord to pray.

How we pray is a personal choice with many variations. Our commitment to the Stewardship of Time calls us to daily prayer and spiritual exercises to strengthen our relationship with Jesus and one another.

Back to Stewardship Home Page