Corpus Christi Blog

Stewardship of Treasure

10-25-2020Weekly ReflectionJen Arnold, M.A. in Theology and Catechetics

As we conclude our discussion of Christian stewardship this week, we will take a brief look at our final gift to share, which is our treasure.

The mission of the Catholic Church and the reason for her existence is for the salvation of souls. As a member of the Catholic Church, you presumably believe in that mission and therefore have a share in it. On a smaller and more focused level, our parish shares in the same mission right here in our local community. We have ministries that provide opportunities for parishioners to grow information and discipleship. We have a beautiful Adoration chapel (hopefully soon to be open 24 hours again!) where everyone, not just parishioners, can go to seek refuge and solace with Jesus at the foot of the cross. We have a beautiful parish campus that our staff works hard to maintain as a beautiful, safe, and inviting environment for anyone to feel wanted and welcome. All of these things require our help through the gift of our tithing, not because we are obligated, but because we believe in the mission of our Church.

Of course, the last year has been a challenging one for many in terms of finances. There has been a terrible loss of income for so many people, both around the world and right here in our community. Now might be a difficult time to even consider increasing your tithing and that’s ok. If you are in a position to prayerfully consider giving more, that’s great. God knows your heart and he knows your situation, whatever it is. We are only called to do what we can, trusting that God will give us the grace and means to rise to the occasion.

Just as you have a family budget for your home, which is set by your predicted monthly income, our parish also has a budget that allows for its mission of creating disciples to continually move forward. A predictable income helps to make that budget more successful, just as it helps with yours. What matters more than the amount you choose to give in your tithing is the consistency with which you give. So, if you tend to put whatever spare cash or change you have in your wallet at the time into the tithing basket, consider changing that to a set amount every week. If you occasionally attend Mass at another parish or go on vacation, consider doubling up your tithing when you return the following week. Of course, there is always the online giving option if that is easiest for you.

It is difficult to talk about tithing without mentioning the poor widow who gave a small coin while the wealthy people around her were giving much more (Mark 12:41-44, Luke 21:1-4). Jesus tells His disciples that she gave more than the others. What this scripture tells us is that the gift of our treasure is less about how much you give and more about the faithfulness and love with which you give.

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