Stewardship in a time of consumption

The whole world bemoans the crass commercialism that has taken over the holiday season. Ironically, that’s even the plot of many a Hollywood holiday blockbuster (presented with limited commercial interruption … even at the local multiplex). Well, what are we going to do about it? Following Jesus as disciples and learning to be wise stewards of God’s good gifts leads us out of the shadows of black Friday and into the glorious light of new life in God’s amazing grace. Remember, our children are watching and learning.

1. Children are bombarded with materialistic messages that often lead to a sense of entitlement and to frustration and dissatisfaction with life. Stewardship encourages gratitude. Stewardship teaches the difference between needs and wants. Stewardship can help children find peace and joy in a crazy world. Stewardship strengthens our relationship with Jesus.

2. Children form attitudes about sharing between the ages of 6 and 10. They will develop an attitude – “the world owes me…I don’t have enough.” Or a stewardship attitude – “I have been blessed…I am happy to share.”

3. Advertisements in the commercial world tell us that you are not good enough the way you are and therefore you need to acquire this product to make you acceptable. In the church we teach that God has already blessed them with all the gifts and talents they need. God has given them an abundance and enough to share.

4. Stewardship is not just a Sunday school class service project. Stewardship is about faithful living…24/7.

5. Children can afford to be good stewards of money. The average child under the age of 13 has over $270 a year in completely disposable income. This is more money than over 500 million heads of households throughout the world have to spend on food, clothing and shelter for their family.