4G1s: An Introduction to the Gospels with a View of Stewardship as a Way of Faithful Living. Wow! Here's a free online course on biblical stewardship that your congregation can really sink its teeth into. 4G1s pays attention to the stewardship-of-life underpinnings of the four Gospels as it provides a scholarly overview of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Be prepared to consider the "two-source hypothesis" and "redaction criticism." By Dr. Mark Vitalis Hoffman, New Testament professor at Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg.

A Brief History of American Stewardship
Now available - a reprint of the popular resource exploring how stewardship transformed from a general concept of responsible Christian living in the 19th century to a euphemism for church finances in the 20th -- and how 21st century leaders can reclaim the broader meaning of stewardship. By William O. Avery, professor of stewardship at Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg. Read Dr. Avery's preface. Available for $2 a copy, including shipping and handling.

Personal Budget Plans: A Faith & Money Approach.  Here's a no-brainer: Families whose personal finances are in a mess are less likely to be happy, fulfilled and contributing to church financially or personally. This useful essay will help pastors and other church leaders give their people advice to get their finances back on track.  Click here for "Personal Budget Plans," from United Methodist Church's Center for Christian Stewardship.

Rick Warren: How big is your vision?  From the "Purpose-Driven Pastor" comes great advice on growing your ministry. "The issue is not who do you think you are, but whodo you think God is? In your dreams for your ministry, don't limit yourself by saying, 'What can I do?' Instead ask, 'What can God do in this place?' "  Click here for "How big is your vision?" from Rick Warren's Ministry Toolbox, a free weekly newsletter for pastors.

Walter Brueggemann: Enough is enough. "Today, the fundamental human condition continues to be anxiety, fueled by a market ideology that keeps pounding on us to take more, to not think about our neighbor, to be fearful, shortsighted, grudging." A searing critique by the late, great Bible scholar Walter Brueggemann, who also suggests ways people of faith can cope.  Click here for "Enough is enough," from the archives of The Other Side magazine.

Radical generosity. This is the testimony of a business owner who went from a typical giver -- a cautious, "sacrificial" 2 percent giver -- to a deliriously happy tither. "The thing that has amazed us most is the joy! We experience more joy and satisfaction from the money we give away than from the money we keep. I have learned that among tithers this is a very common experience." Click here for "Radical generosity." It's just one of the helpful stewardship resources from Stewardship in the 21st Century at Luther Seminary.

Fundamentals of Christian Stewardship.  Here's a no-nonsense explanation of what stewardship means to a walk of faith. "Jesus invites his disciples to practice inward freedom from consumption. Those who aspire to embrace Christian stewardship will be compelled to renounce a preoccupation with possessions and consumption." Click here for "Fundamentals of Christian Stewardship," from the Archdiocese of Detroit, Roman Catholic Church.

The magic of growth. In this essay, stewardship columnist Tuck Aaker talks about how congregations can help stop declining membership and embrace growth." There is one issue that can be solved with one simple action that every one of these congregations can do. They all can change their attitude about growth and become positive about their futures.  Click here for Tuck Aaker's column, from ELCA stewardship resources.

Free booklet: 'Love for the Poor'. Here is a great resource for personal devotion, sermon preparation or education -- a booklet looking at the biblical and theological understandings of poverty and how it informs our response to it. The book is ecumenical in outlook and prophetic in its vision. Click here for "Love for the Poor." From The National Council of Churches USA. (PDF download requires Adobe Reader. Click here for free download of Adobe Reader.)

 Ministry to Deep-Pocket Donors. The wealthiest members of your congregation may be eager to assist -- or to assist more -- with the ministry of your church, and they can be encouraged to see their wealth as a spiritual gift, says a veteran pastor. "When I approach someone about giving, I don't see myself as a salesman, a fundraiser, or a beggar. I am the church's leader, charged with the responsibility of training every member to use his or her spiritual gift so that the body might be built up into the image of Christ."  Click here for "Ministry to Deep-Pocket Donors," from Building Church Leaders.

Stewardship: The 'S' word. What do Mainline Christians think about stewardship? This essay explores it from a Presbyterian perspective, which offers common sense and biblical theology. "A poor church is not one without money, but one without a vision. When people have a clear Biblical and theological understanding of the mission of the church, healthy stewardship practices emerge."  Click here for "Stewardship: The "S" word," from Presbyterians Today.

Biblical and Theological Foundations of Stewardship. "Stewardship begins with knowledge of the character of God. Knowing who God is and what God has done.  Faithful stewards know the story of God inside and out.  And then they give thanks."  This is an insightful and lively talk from Dr. Diane Jacobson, professor of Old Testament at Luther Seminary.  Click here for "Biblical and Theological Foundations." From Luther Seminary's Stewardship for the 21st Century program.

Henri Nouwen: The spirituality of fundraising.  "You don’t say, 'Please we have a nice little project going here, and wouldn’t you like to help us out a bit?' No! You say, 'Aren’t you glad that we, who give our time and our lives to a holistic, ecologic fertility and health care, invite you in and aren’t you delighted that you are allowed to make your resources available for this great work?' Click here for "The spirituality of fundraising," a transcript of a conversation with Henri Nouwen made available by Generous Giving.

Katrina: 'Act of God' or consequence of human sin? The media describe Katrina as a natural disaster, but the head of the Reformed Church in America asks, "Just how 'natural' was this disaster?" Wes Granberg-Michaelson says Katrina and its aftermath reveal devastating failures of stewardship that are rooted in human sinfulness. A searing critique.  Click here for "Katrina." (9/26/05)

Climate change and the stewardship of God's creation. "If humans through our actions have helped cause climate change, then it is a reflection of our (poor) stewardship of God’s creation. If we have helped cause the problem of climate change, then we are responsible for reducing the speed of climate change."  Click here for "Climate change," from The Ecumenical Eco-Justice Network. (9/05/05)

Climate change and the unraveling of creation. By BILL McKIBBEN: "We are engaged in the swift and systematic decreation of the planet we were born onto. And does God look at our actions and pronounce them good? I doubt it. Forget the sterile debates about whether we were given dominion over his planet. Grant that we were. The question is, what have we done with that dominion?" Click here for "Climate change," from Religion On-line. (08/08/05)

When you're looking for God's financial provision. By RICK WARREN: "God is staking his character and his reputation on it. 'I will meet your needs.'  ... Why is it that you have financial needs? Why do so many believers struggle in this area? We all know people who are believers who have financial needs. Did God fail?  Did he lie? Exaggerate?" Click here for "When you're looking for God's financial provision," from Pastors.com. (08/08/05)

Stewardship: A handbook. Here's a resource available for free PDF download - a sort of "stewardship 101" guide for congregational leaders. It covers a variety of topics, from Scripture references to programs to nurturing stewardship. It's prepared by the Episcopal Church of Scotland, and the principles apply just as well this side of the Atlantic. Click here for "Stewardship: A handbook," from The Episcopal Network for Stewardship. (08/01/05)

Greening the church. Churches are waking up to the realities of environmental stewardship -- and taking their responsibilities seriously. That is part of the message you'll read in this article in Episcopal Life magazine, which details the growing trend in that denomination. Click here for "Greening the church, from Episcopal Life. (08/15/05)

Growth, bottled water and gas. People grouse about the price of gas while sipping extremely expensive water. Does the same type of phenomenon occur at pledge time? "There is no place on earth where so many people can afford to live so well. And yet, when it comes to showing God our collective thanks for all these things, we hide behind our fear of change and block them."  Click here for "Growth, bottled water and gas." From Tuck Aaker, columnist for ELCA Stewardship resources. (07/25/05)

 Stewardship is more than money -- it's your life. "Holistic stewardship encompasses all that we are, all that we hope to become. We use four “c” words to summarize scores of biblical passages upon which we base our theology of holistic stewardship: conversion, commitment, communion, and concern." Click here for "Stewardship is more than money." Insights from Congregations magazine, published by the Alban Institute. (07/25/05)

Transformation through education. This essay makes a case for environmental education in your church. "As a result of learning, people are lead to profound repentance, a turning around, an abandonment of attitudes and actions that are cavalier toward nature and an embracing of actions that tread lightly on the earth. Through an awareness of political decisions that erode our clean air or clean water, people are led to a stance of advocacy." Click here for "Transformation through education." Great resource, from Web of Creation.  (07/25/05)

Money and the spiritual life. "Pastor, we need to help our people understand that God says there is a direct relationship between how I use my money and the quality of my spiritual life! The way we manage God's money can prevent him from doing more in our lives. " Click here for "Money and the spiritual life." Inspirational essay published by "the Purpose Driven Pastor" Rick Warren and posted on his organization's website Pastors.Com. (07/18/05)

Climate change: Breaking the cycle of denial. "The evidence is clear. We have sent carbon dioxide soaring to levels that the planet hasn’t seen for 20 million years, by burning coal, oil and gas to generate power for homes, cars and industries, and by destroying forests and soils which absorb carbon emissions. We created the crisis; we can do something about it." Click here for "Breaking the cycle." Great resource, written by a Church of the Brethren minister and posted on the website of the Ecumenical Eco-Justice Network.

Stewardship: Sharing the Abundance.  Here's a wonderful congregational resource for novice stewardship leaders and veterans alike. Broad in its approach and deep in its detail, Sharing the Abundance is useful and practical. Click here for Sharing the Abundance. From the Resource Center of the Eastern North Dakota Synod. (07/18/05)

The overlooked key to success. In working with congregations over the years, there is one key factor that keeps coming back, loud and clear. If the Pastor and the lay leaders aren’t "out in front " of the stewardship efforts, there’s very little chance of growth! Click here for this piece by Tuck Aaker, columnist for ELCA stewardship resources. (07/04/05)

Can corporations assume responsibility for the environment? In this essay, eminent process theologian John B. Cobb Jr. discusses the environmental implications of the growing power of transnational businesses. "Personally, I am not happy that the future of the Earth is now in the hands of corporations rather than governments. I believe that power should be in the hands of those who have other goals than economic gain in view as part of their primary job description." Click here for Cobb's essay. Posted on Religion Online. (07/04/05)

Faithful Finances 101. In this weekly stewardship newsletter, Jerry Hoffman praises the recent stewardship book, Faithful finances 101: From the poverty of fear and greed to the riches of spiritual investing. The work by Gary Moore debunks the morality of the marketplace, Hoffman says. "Moore sees that one of the biggest problems facing people is our tendency to compartmentalize our lives. ...  We don’t consider how love to our neighbor applies when we purchase a stock, mutual fund or make other investment." Click here for the newsletter. From Stewardship for the 21st Century at Luther Seminary. (6/27/05)

Relationships: The glue that holds your church together. Most towns boast plenty of churches where people can hear the Word of God, so what will encourage people to become a part of yours? Church-growth guru Rick Warren says churches that encourage relationships among members have an edge, and the smartest churches encourage relationships in everything they do. Click here for Relationships. Posted on Warren's website Pastors.com. (6/27/05)

Poverty, justice and the environment. This essay explores the connection between the polar opposite issues of poverty and overconsumption on the one hand, and environmental degradation on the other. A thoughtful explortion of the issues. Click here for Poverty, justice and the environment. From the Web of Creation.  (06/20/05)

One step ahead. Faced with split-second decisions, sports stars excel because they have repeatedly thought through the situations their games place them in. Churches can learn from this by thinking through financial scenarios and how to handle them before they occur. Click here for One step ahead, the column by Tuck Aaker, who writes for ELCA Stewardship Resources.(06/20/05)

The Cry of Creation: A Call for Climate Justice. This is a high-quality set of readings and study guides for people of faith to explore issues of environmental protection and climate change. The free 28-page guide in PDF format contains a sermon by noted Christian environmental writer Bill McKibbon and gems from people of other faiths. Click here for The Cry of Creation. Prepared by Earth Ministry for the Interfaith Climate Change Network. (06/13/05)

First-mile, second-mile and third-mile giving. In this essay, stewardship specialist Dr. Ed Kruse suggests a number of practical, down-to-earth ways that congregations can develop a revenue stream through second-mile giving. Click here for the essay. From the Central States Synod, ELCA. (5/9/05)

'Giving Daily Care' stewardship reflections. Here is a series of eight brilliant, practical Bible reflections that explore the stewardship implications of everyday activities. Thoughtful, prayerful, very down to earth, the series looks at caring for ourselves, others, God's grace, justice, creation and other aspects of life. Click here for the menu of reflections, toward the bottom of the page. From Women of the ELCA. (05/02/05)

Douglas John Hall: Stewardship in a new century. "Stewardship in the Bible has very little to do with supporting the church," theologian Douglas John Hall told a gathering of the Greater Milwaukee Synod, ELCA "It's a much broader concept." One of North America's foremost religious thinkers, Hall has worked extensively in areas of stewardship and theology of the cross.  Click here to read a report of Hall's provocative talk. (05/02/05)

An evangelical declaration on the care of creation. Clear thinking, biblical theology and a progressive attitude mark this statement of the Evangelical Environmental Network. It is both a description of the current state of the environment globally and a call to action. Inspiring statement, signed by scores of notables, including Tony Compolo and Ron Sider. Click here for the declaration. And while you're there, check out the other great resources on their website. (04/25/05)

I owe it to myself. As college students descend on Florida for "spring break," ELCA stewardship columnist Tuck Aaker reflects on the growing attitude that we deserve a reward for every sacrifice, no matter how petty. He describes the "merry go round" that has ensnared many: "The more you work, the more you earn, the more you spend, the more you work. Click here for Tuck Aaker's column, one of many ELCA Stewardship Resources. (4/25/05)

Christianity and Ecology: Wholeness, Respect, Justice, Sustainability. Here is a provocative essay from Harvard University’s Forum on Religion and Environment that frames the issue nicely: "Increasing numbers of Christian theologians and ethicists are responding to the environmental challenge as the world gets hotter, stormier, unequal, crowded, more violent, and less biodiverse. In this pivotal time, what do Christian ecotheology and ethics contribute to the struggle to secure the earth community’s well-being?" Click here for the essay. While you’re on the page, cruise through some of the other worthwhile links on religion and ecology, including course outlines. (04/18/05)

Ecology and Economy. In this talk, Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams explores the sometimes-tense relationship between ecology and economy: "It has been said that 'the economy is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the environment.' The earth itself is what ultimately controls economic activity because it is the source of the materials upon which economic activity works." Click here for the talk. (04/18/05)

Two important rules. When last year's hurricanes extensively damaged a Florida church, the congregation was spared from disaster because it followed two key stewardship rules. Your congregation can learn them, too!  Click here for this insightful column by Tuck Aaker, writer for ELCA Stewardship Resources. (03/28/05)

Biblical stewardship Principles. Perfect for inspiration or reference alike, theologians from the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod came up with a wonderful list of eight biblical principles for stewardship, available in a variety of languages (how many Lutherans read Portuguese?) and versions for presentation to different age groups. Uses a Q-and-A format similar to Luther's catechisms.  (8/16/04)

Creative congregational fundraising. For its congregations that need (or want) to look at new sources of income, the New York Metropolitan Synod of the ELCA prepared a PowerPoint presentation on how to approach foundations and other philanthropic agencies. Good nuts-and-bolts tips for stewardship committees, pastors, and others. (09/20/04)

Money Management: A Spiritual Exercise. "What would happen if we accept God’s gift of tithing when we accept God’s gift of money?  If we give off the top, we claim our place as 'givers' before we admit that we are 'consumers.'  That puts our priorities in order and establishes a framework of gratitude around the rest of our financial affairs." By Henry Morris, pastor and stewardship consultant. (09/07/04)

Every member visits: Challenges as opportunities. "People are learning that stewardship is not a dangerous monster threatening to break into their homes and steal their money.  Commitments to the Lord and His church are generously given following a visit by trained visitors to every member household." By the Rev. Kurt Wandrey. In the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives. (9/6/4)

Stewardship is not about money."Stewardship is about being a person of character who is worthy to be given a great trust and being found faithful as we carry out the will of the master. Even if money is involved in carrying out our trust, it is only a tool that is used as we carry out the will of God." By Pastor Jim Bliss of Resurrection Lutheran Church (ELCA), Dublin, Calif. (9/6/4)

Money Management: A Spiritual Exercise. "What would happen if we accept God’s gift of tithing when we accept God’s gift of money?  If we give off the top, we claim our place as 'givers' before we admit that we are 'consumers.'  That puts our priorities in order and establishes a framework of gratitude around the rest of our financial affairs." By Henry Morris, pastor and stewardship consultant. (9/6/4)

A theology of stewardship. Growing in stewardship involves four distinct phases, according to this study guide that provides a biblically based program for a classroom or workshop series. Can be done on its own or incorporated or adapted for your own stewardship drive. Good stuff from Joy Lutheran Church (ELCA), Gurnee, Ill. (08/30/04)

 Proclaiming stewardship. Here's a gem for pastors who want to emphasize stewardship from the pulpit and classroom. Susan K. Hedahl, professor of homiletics, Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg, offers tips for sermons and temple talks. "Ask what the stewardship profile of your congregation is -- Before public proclamation, it is necessary to ask: Where have we been? As a congregation, what gifts do we already employ for ourselves and others? Where do we hope to be in the months, the years ahead? Which resources do we need to consider, expand, develop?"  In the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives (8/16/04)

Ten Functions of an Effective 'Stewardship' Congregation. "Most congregations struggle with how to organize 'stewardship' because it is not clear exactly what that means. To some stewardship means 'budgeting,' to others it means developing 'financial independence' and to still others 'balancing' the budget. None of these definitions suit our understanding of Biblical stewardship and they usually result in negative experiences in congregations and denominations." Good insights from the Central States Synod, ELCA. It's in PDF, which requires Adobe Acrobat.  Click here for your free copy of Acrobat. (8/9/04)

A new vision for your congregation. So, it’s been a while since you reviewed your congregation’s mission statement, or maybe you don’t have one. Or, you are beginning to look afresh at what you think God is calling your congregation to do at this critical time in your history. And you’d like to know how to proceed. This free guide is designed to help. Also available by PDF download.  By Mark Staples of Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia. (8/2/4)

Invisible Abundance. "We [Americans] live casually with abundance that most people in the world cannot even imagine, and yet most of it is invisible to us. … Maybe the biggest obstacle to generosity toward the poor is our blindness to the abundance that God has given us. Maybe the most important American middle-class prayer should be a request for eyes to see our abundance." Prophetic words in an essay by Margaret G. Payne, Bishop of the New England Synod.  (7/19/04)

Pastor: Fund Raiser for Mission. "The time has come in our church when we, as clergy and leaders, can no longer divorce ourselves from raising money for mission. To a present culture of materialism, selfishness, and consumerism, we are called to model in our own lives and teach others Christian financial stewardship." By Jerry L. Schmalenberger, former president and professor of parish life at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary. In the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives.

Put Your Money Where Your Faith Is. What does it mean to be a steward who thinks globally? It means acting on the assumption that God has given the human race enough resources to meet every need. This 2003 article in the publication of the Presbyterian Church (USA) suggests four concrete ways to put this vision of stewardship in action. From Presbyterians Today. (4/14/04)

Francis of Assisi: Steward of a Radical Faith. He lived more than half a millennium ago, but St. Francis has much to teach stewards of today, says Gerald Christianson, history professor at Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg. "We stand under judgment because of our greed, our grasping, our accumulating, our self-love — in short, all that Francis perceived would continually afflict those who have. Yet, at the same time, we live under the promise. "I am not ashamed of the gospel", Paul writes in Romans 1:16, "it is the power of God into salvation." In the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives. (7/5/04)

Widow's walk ... does Jesus idealize poverty? Stewards love the Jesus' story of the "widow's mite" as the ideal illustration of sacrificial giving, here's a fresh wrinkle. "Our culture counsels us to became like the honored scribes, but Jesus counsels us to become like the dishonored widow. We are to model our lives on one we would normally overlook, being too busy admiring the lifestyles of the rich and famous." By Mary Anderson, pastor of Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Incarnation, Columbia, S.C., printed in The Christian Century. (6/7/04)

Two Questions, Two Incredible Answers. "Do you know what else God does with this 'everything in heaven and in the earth' that is God's? Listen, again, to the psalmist: The eyes of all wait upon you, O Lord, and you give them their meat in due season. You open your hand and satisfy the desire or every living thing." That's the "second" thing God does with this "everything in heaven and in the earth" that is God's . . . God shares it with you . . . freely gives you everything you need to nourish, to sustain, to make rich and full the life God has given you . . .."  By the Rev. George Haynes, in the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives. (05/31/04)

Tru-Envy? From America's obsession with a perfect lawn, Jon Pahl of Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia makes a religious connection: "We seem somehow uncertain of our salvation, so we seek enemies to conquer and control, and we seem driven constantly to display our power for others to see. Can there be a connection between the way we treat dandelions and the way we treat our neighbors? The way we treat the poor and sick and suffering of the world?" Reprinted, with permission, from the April 15, 2004 issue of Sightings, produced by the Martin Marty Center at the University of Chicago Divinity School. (05/24/04)

The Positives of Pledging. "Whether we call it a pledge, a commitment, an intent, or something else, it all comes down to the same thing: a statement that a proportionate share of our monetary resources is to be given for the proclamation of the Gospel. It says that our Christian giving is not only on a par with everything else in our household budget, but indeed is at the top of the list! We want to give the first fruits for the Lord’s work!" By Clint Schroeder, in the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives. (05/24/04)

Open to God's Surprises. "Congregationally based stewardship begins with the steadfast recounting of the story of the riches of God’s grace lavished upon us in Jesus Christ, crucified and risen. That story defines who we are, namely, children of God called to faith by the Water and the Word of Baptism, nurtured and sustained by the Lord’s Supper, blessed and empowered by the Spirit of God, placed within the community of faith." By the Rev. Marcus Lohrmann, bishop of the Northwest Ohio Synod, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, in the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives.

The Stories of Isaiah and Pepe What do Israel's greatest prophet and a present-day advocate for Mexico's poorest have in common? Plenty, and the implications for stewardship are profound. "By hearing their stories, you and I also can be transformed in our sense of call, because we cannot hear these stories without examining how God calls us to serve the people among whom we live." By the Rev. Dr. William Avery, stewardship professor at Gettysburg Lutheran Seminary, in the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives. (05/03/04)

Jürgen Moltmann: Reconciliation with Nature. This fine essay by one of our era's pre-eminent Protestant theologians is just one in a classic edition of Word & Word, published by Luther Seminary, St. Paul. The issue provides in-depth scholarly treatment to the environment issues, including:
The Responsibility of Royalty: Genesis 1-11 and the Care of the Earth - James Limburg
The Weeping Mask: Ecological Crisis and the View of Nature - Vitor Westhelle
Environmental Concern and Economic Justice - Peri Rasolondraibe
Ecology, Feminism and Theology - Mary Ann Hinsdale
The Church's Role in Environmental Action - Calvin DeWitt

Down-to-Earth Theology. One of the most prophetic voices in American Christian thought, Sojourners devotes its entire March issue to the environment. Every article is rich, provocative, passionate and faithful. Highlights:
Consider the Turtles of the Field - Many evangelicals find themselves in an emerging theological habitat, where care of creation is central to mission.
Rockfish, Redfish, Stockfish, Foodfish - Seven biblical principles for the care of creation.
To Serve and Preserve - The Bible calls us to dominion over creation. Or does it? 
Sins of Emission  - No politician seriously believes that Americans are willing to deal with global warming. Is it too late to prove them wrong?  By Bill McKibben

The Church's Call to Environmental Stewardship. "The biblical call to stewardship will lead us to foster quality of life. The quality of life that is measured only by material goods and economic factors is incomplete. Total quality of life must include the health and stability of the natural world, relative justice and peace for people, and the free and true worship of God Almighty. It is on this basis, on this biblical vision, that Christians are motivated to respond to ecological crises." By Gilson A.C. Waldkoenig in the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives (04/12/04)

Caring for Creation: Vision, Hope and Justice. This is the ELCA's landmark social statement on the environment, approved at 1993 Churchwide Assembly. Check out the discussion guide. The 2003 consultation Caring for Creation ... for the Healing of the World provided a 10-year retrospective, with resources for study, advocacy  and liturgy. (04/12/04)

 Confirmation Emphasis: Environmental Stewardship. Here's a six-part program for confirmands to explore a complex issue that affects us all. "Given today’s serious environmental challenges, both locally and globally, it is appropriate to make stewardship of the environment a much higher priority than in the past. This is an excellent opportunity to talk with youth about situations that impact their lives on a daily basis." In the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives. (04/05/04)

Stewardship in the Congregation. "The stewardship of the gospel begins where we are. It is within and outside the congregation that we share the responsibility and accountability with other stewards of the gospel. And it needs to be said as forcibly as possible that what we do is as important as what we say. Someone has wisely observed that "It is not enough to talk the talk, unless we also walk the walk." By Roger Smith, deployed ELCA stewardship specialist, in the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives.(3/22/04)

Share Your God-Given Talents. "So much in life can be modeled on the stance of the couch potato, aimlessly flicking the channel changer, but that leads nowhere. A parish in which all are actively engaged is an exciting and rewarding community, not just a supplier of spiritual services, where we pull in to tank up with what is offered. It is a lively faith family that challenges us as disciples to do great things for Jesus, in the spirit of the Acts of the Apostles."  By Thomas Collins, Archbishop of the Edmonton, Ontario, Diocese of the Roman Catholic Church.

Digging Deeper: Money and Your Heart. The third Gospel has a great deal to say about how Christians are to handle finances. "Money can make it hard for an independently minded person to admit his need and dependently trust Christ for eternal salvation. Luke 18:18-30 does not teach that giving to the poor will merit one’s salvation. Other New Testament passages make it clear that salvation is not the result of good works (Rom. 4:1-3; 5:1; Eph. 2:8-9). Luke simply illustrates how riches can hinder a relationship with God." By Mark L. Bailey of Dallas Theological Seminary, in Moody Magazine.(3/1/04)

Lost? Use GPS - God's Positioning Spirit. "As stewards, God gives you guidance as a gift--the guidance of the Spirit. I am sure you recognize the Spirit as a gift of God in your life, but have you ever thought to recognize God's guidance as a gift? You can have the best map in the world, but may still not find your destination."  StewardLife from the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod. (2/23/04)

Sins of Emission. No politician seriously believes that Americans are willing to deal with global warming. Is it too late to prove them wrong? "Sin, of course, is a word we've agreed to stop using in polite company-a cheap way of making an argument, its force eroded by its constant application to matters of personal style. So let's refer to the pattern of unfortunate option selection by the Bush administration when it comes to the environment." By Bill McKibbon, a leading Christian environmentalist, in Sojourners. (2/23/04)

Economics Vs. Stewardship.  "I constantly am struck by parallels between my life's work as an economist and my concept to Christian stewardship - in economics we deal with how we use our resources to fill our human wants, in stewardship we deal with how we choose to use God's gifts to us. I have noted that those who are closest to our basic resources - closest to the land, water and other natural resources - have the best perspective on what good stewardship means." By the Rev. Richard L. Peterman, from the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives. (2/23/4)

The Life of a Steward-Servant "Empowered by the Spirit, Christians can challenge indolence and indulgence -- without excuses, rationalization or other mental gymnastics. God's people are empowered to live a God-pleasing StewardLife using and enjoying all that they have received from God."  StewardLife from the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod. (2/16/04)

 Can Stewardship Be More Inviting? "All stewardship talk which begins with money starts at the wrong place. The place to begin meaningful stewardship conversation is with the concept of freedom.  ... God’s love is freely given to us simply because we are God’s children, simply because God loves us apart from our worthiness or unworthiness. When we learn this truth and appropriate it at the center of our being, then we are truly free." By the Rev. William O. Avery, stewardship professor at Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg. From the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives. (2/16/04)

Send Lazarus A hard-hitting look at how Jesus' story of Lazarus and Dives applies to our own thinking about outreach to the poor. "Now, Luke's parable lacks the sort of data that people like  to have when deciding whether and how to help. It doesn't say, for example, if Lazarus was deserving or lazy,"drug-addicted, mentally ill, or a good Joe down on his luck. We don't know whether he cornered Dives with pathetic spiels every time he left the house, or whether he just lay there, annoyingly mute, day after day. All we know is that he was at the gate, sick and hungry. And that, Luke seems to say, is all we need to know to predict the reversal ahead. By J. Mary Luti in the Christian Century. (2/16/04)

The Spirituality of Stewardship. The message is clear: Parishes flourish when parishioners commit themselves. "Stewardship is undeniably fruitful. Where, over time, more and more parishioners become engaged in committing their time, talent and treasure to the work of the Gospel, the Church flourishes. Parishes report an upsurge in volunteer engagement, a greater fervour in the prayer life of the community, a more effective outreach to those in need, an increase in religious and priestly vocations, and so on." By Thomas Collins, Archbishop of the Edmonton, Ontario, Diocese of the Roman Catholic Church. (2/9/4)

About God's Generosity ... "Everything we have, everything, is a trust, a gift, on loan, from God. Even me. Whatever I am, I am God’s. Whatever I have is God’s. And whenever I feel stingy with what I have, I remember the hymn: All that we have is thine alone, a trust, 0 Lord, from thee." By Paul R.Axness. From the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives. (2/9/4)

God's Gentle and Not-So-Gentle Leadings. "There are indicators in our lives every day. As a steward -- a person with 'new eyes' to see God's grace and blessings -- you can train yourself to b e aware of indicators of God's gifts."  StewardLife from the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod. (2/9/4)

Tithing: A Step in Walking the Way of Christ. "Jesus did tell his disciples to pay their taxes to Caesar; rendering to him the coin that has his face on it, but giving to God what is God's.  I guess that raises the question: what part of your life belongs to God?  Have you given it all to God, or just part of it?  Is Jesus the ruler of your life, or someone you follow on Sunday from 10:30 to noon? By The Rev. Dr. Walk Jones, pastor of Northminster Presbyterian Church, Pensacola, Fla. (2/2/4)

12 Steps to Selecting Fund-Raising Counsel. "All churchmembers tremble at least a little bit when they confront the prospect of a campaign for capital funds, for whatever purpose. They know they are inexperienced, don’t have any formalized campaign structure or plan, have no method for evaluating their congregation’s ability to respond, and don’t know how to pace a campaign so the congregation’s excitement reaches a peak at the same time they will be asked to make commitments of money." By William T. Evans. From the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives. (2/2/4)

Live In God's Wondrous Grace. "God's grace is active in our lives continuously. But we have different words for it based on how intensely that grace interacts with us."  StewardLife from the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod   (2/2/4)

The Liturgy of Abundance, the Myth of Scarcity. A must read by Walter Brueggemann, the respected Hebrew Bible scholar who brings searing Scriptural insight into American consumerism and religious life. "Christians have a long history of trying to squeeze Jesus out of public life and reduce him to a private little Savior. But to do this is to ignore what the Bible really says. ... When people forget that Jesus is the bread of the world, they start eating junk food -- the food of the Pharisees and of Herod, the bread of moralism and of power. Too often the church forgets the true bread and is tempted by the junk food." From The Christian Century. (1/26/04))

Giving Servants. "The issue of 'giving' is the key element in the growth and health of an individual and a congregation. Want to be truly rich? Then give! Want to be truly successful? Then serve!" An inspirational, enriching essay by Glen Holmquist. From the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives. (1/26/04)

 Are You Open to God's Blessings? "Could it possibly be that among the clutter of every day, God is in there trying to break through to you? His blessings are all around you. Can you see them? Can you hear him?"  StewardLife from the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod. (1/26/04)

A Little ... It is Enough  The story of Jesus miraculously feeding the 5,000 is so important, it's the only account shared in all four gospels. It offers many lessons for modern-day stewards. "Are we not to this very day, much like those first followers of Jesus? We are all too fond of committees. We will do an analysis of most any situation and decide what cannot be done. And have good reasons for it." By Kenneth Fink. From the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives. (1/19/04)

The Practice of Stewardship: A Spiritual Discipline in Response to God's Grace "The practice of stewardship begins with hearing the Good News of Jesus Christ. It is the power of the Holy Spirit working through Word and Sacrament that changes our hearts and wills so that we become the generous children of God." This and other insights from Gary Hedding, Assistant to the Bishop, Northwest Synod of Wisconsin and made available through the Association of Lutheran Resource Centers. (1/19/04)

Our Reality Check: The Cross "So often we get fooled by what we think is 'real.' And in today's digital world, the line between what looks real and what is real is often blurred if not entirely missing."  StewardLife from the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod. (1/19/04)

Money: Do Our Attitudes and Practices Reflect Our Faith?  "I need to daily remind myself that everything I have, yes even life itself, is a gift from God. I do this by offering a prayer of thanksgiving at the beginning of every day for this new day and for the many blessings that continue to be bestowed by God. We are tempted by the sin within us and the multitude of events around us to want to put our faith in man. Money especially has this power. " By Duane Engelhardt. From the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives. (1/12/04)

Seeing New Possibilities. "The person living the StewardLife gets new eyes to see life from a different perspective. ... We view all of God's gifts of time, resources, people, relationships, community, diversity, talent, industry, government as assets - as capacity or potential - to build God's kingdom."  StewardLife from the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod. (1/12/04)

Missing Pieces of God's Puzzle. "God is so concerned with each one of us that He goes searching in the dirt and grime of sin to find us and pluck us out. No matter what we have been sucked into, because He cares for every individual, God can put us back into the picture."  StewardLife from the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod. (1/5/4)

Stewardship Bottleneck. "It is hard to believe that the root cause for poor stewardship is a simple little two letter word. It is a word that we learn early in life, long before we learn that we have and are responsible for all of the gifts God has entrusted into our care. Babies often use this word by the time they are barely one year old. From that point on, it guides most of us for our entire life. What is this evil and malicious word? It is the simple word 'my,' that is, belonging to me." By Robert Drange. From the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives. (1/5/4)

Martin E. Marty:  Generosity. How are the values of generosity we cherish and promote for ourselves and our congregations reflected in our nation's policies?  "Since the days of Alexis de Tocqueville, Americans see theirs as a religious, moral, generous nation -- a nation whose people have been looking into the mirror and making this appraisal.  ... How are we doing?" From Sightings, published by the Martin Marty Center at the University of Chicago Divinity School.(1/5/4)

Good Stewardship Begins with the Pastor. "Like any top executive in a successful corporation, the pastor must be willing to put forth time and effort far beyond what he or she expects of his or her people. The pastor sets the standard and the tone. If a pastor is not willing to make some sacrifices, he or she should find another less demanding profession. It’s that simple." By Robert Zimmer. From the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives. (12/29/03) For Me, January and Diets Go Together Pastor Jim Bliss of Resurrection Lutheran Church (ELCA), Dublin, Calif., notes that New Year's is a great time to make decisions, including those that will deepen discipleship. "Giving is also indispensable to the Christian life. Many people believe that tithing, giving 10 percent of your income to God, is only an Old Testament thing. When Jesus speaks of tithing though, he assumes that it is being practiced." (12/29/03)

Random Thoughts on Stewardship "If we give out of surplus, or in a leftover manner, we have ignored the gifts God has given us. We have not planned our response to God for all we have been blessed with. We are more concerned with what we want for ourselves than what God wants for all people." By Helmut El. From the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives. (12/22/03)

Small Coins/Big Money. "If we give out of surplus, or in a leftover manner, we have ignored the gifts God has given us. We have not planned our response to God for all we have been blessed with. We are more concerned with what we want for ourselves than what God wants for all people." By Robert Scmitt. From the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives. (12/15/03)

Church and Money  "Certainly we need to encourage the giving of time and talent, but when service becomes a substitute for the tithe, then we are doing a disservice to people who need victory in their lives. Begin to tithe and the committed involvement will follow."  From the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives. (12/08/03)

Martin E. Marty: 'Tipping the Plate' "Whoever does what Jesus-in-the-gospels did, and examines the collection plate as it goes by, still will find plenty of "mites" or one-dollar bills. ... My bottom line: our giving to all causes, beginning with church, per capita among givers -- and without averaging in non-givers in the population -- is closer to "tipping" than "sacrifice" or "generous giving." From Sightings, published by the Martin Marty Center. (12/01/03)

Stewardship, Faith and Life "Although we profess a wider understanding of stewardship, we have allowed it to be primarily focused on the giving of money. Even when we add time and talent to our discussion, the message we hear is related to money. We need to focus on the 'need of the giver to give' versus the 'need of the institution to receive.'  " Essay by Duane Englehardt. In the Lutheran Laity Movement Archives. (12/1/03)

The Three T's Reconsidered, by Robert A. Hoffman. "Stewardship does not begin with giving, but with receiving. It does not begin with an action, but with an attitude; everything that I have has been given to me. Part of the Lutheran Laity Movement for Stewardship Archives.  (11/24/03)

What Does Stewardship Mean to You? "For me, it is my relationship with the Lord and what I do with all of the resources that I have been given. It is not a program; it is not a concept; it is not a one-time-a-year presentation. Like prayer, stewardship is a part of my daily faith journey." Inspirational message from Kathy Lemmerbrock, Administrator and Stewardship Liaison for the Northwest Ohio Synod, ELCA.

Journey Between Worlds: Economic Globalization and Luther's God Indwelling Creation. Our created environment and livelihood of billions face unprecedented peril from economic globalization. As stewards of God's world, what are we to think? In her article in the Journal of Lutheran Ethics, Cynthia Moe-Lobeda finds insights from Luther's theology.

 Notes on the Theology and Practice of Stewardship for Evaluating Congregational Stewardship Programs outlines important considerations for church leaders. From Waterloo Lutheran Seminary, an institution of the Eastern Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada.

Growing Generous Givers: 12 Tools for Cultivating an Unselfish Church. This insightful article from Leadership Journal distills a pastor's experience into easy-to-apply tips.

A Steward's Take on the Apostle's Creed. In this classic paper, the Rev. Dr. Richard L. Peterman, the noted late teacher and thinker sees the Creed as a key to understanding stewardship as a faith discipline. "Stewardship is not a matter of 10 percent of my money, rather it's 100 percent of me."

Why use envelopes to collect the church offering each week? The Rev. Wayne Eichstadt, pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Mankato, MN, a congregation of Church of the Lutheran Confession, says it puts a practical spin on a spiritual practice.

Stewardship as a Lifestyle. As the principle that underlies every aspect of our lives, Stewardship gives us coherence and priority. By the Rev. H. George Anderson. Stewardship and Vocation.These two concepts, often seen as separate paths in a faithful walk of discipleship, actually are quite connected. By The Rev. Mark Vitalis Hoffman.

Christian Giving in God's World. Is giving money to God optional? Absolutely not! Christians are commanded by God to give of their possessions to the work of God," writes the Richard Bucher, pastor of Evangelical Trinity Lutheran Church, LCMS, Clinton, Mass.

 The Gospel and Stewardship. Stewardship has always been a struggle of faith, and it is rooted in our knowledge of good and evil. By the Rev. Carl R. Sachtleben.

Being Kept. "It is not about keeping the tithe. It is that tithing will keep you. As you increase your giving and approach giving 7 or 8 or 9 or 10 percent or more a change will occur in your life. A new realization will develop that all that we have ultimately belongs to God." By M-1033shighlandichael C. Rehak of Deerfield Lutheran Church, Deerfield, Wis

"Stewardship of the Family." A timeless paper on family and marriage from a noted theologian, Jerry Schmalenberger.  "Faithfulness and lifelong fidelity must be stewarded very much like we preserve, conserve, and treasure other priceless possessions and natural resources."(Posted May 11, 2003)

I'm Talking About Money. "Jesus wasn’t anxious talking about money. One-sixth of the verses in the synoptic gospels deal with money. In the biblical record, Jesus talked more about money than he talked about sin or love. Jesus spoke five times as often about money and earthly possessions as about prayer." Message from Pastor Aprille Jordan of Immanuel Lutheran Church, ELCA, Missoula, Mont. (Posted Aug. 24, 2003)