stewardship – Page 16

How Many Toys?

November 12, 2013 By Sharron R. Blezard

Do children have too many toys? Check out this recent BBC news article by Joanne Furniss before you catch the Christmas consumer fever. Share it with parents in your community and host a thoughtful discussion. (Photo: Steve Winton, Creative Commons)

Giving CAN Feel Good!

November 12, 2013 By Elizabeth W. Dunn and Michael I. Norton

Click here to read an essay adapted from the book Happy Money by Elizabeth W. Dunn, Ph.D. and Michael I. Norton, Ph.D., originally printed in Greater Good. The authors suggest three strategies for boosting generosity. (Photo: Tim Green, Creative Commons)

Focus

November 6, 2013 By Sharron R. Blezard

25th Sunday after Pentecost, Year C, November 10, 2013
This week’s lesson offer powerful reminders of our need to remain focused on the things that really matter. How can you use these lessons to help those in your worshiping community find renewed focus? (Photo: toolstop, Creative Commons)

8 Reasons Why Believers Give to Your Church

November 6, 2013 By Rob Blezard

If you want your church to grow, you must learn how to motivate believers to invest their resources into the kingdom for ministry and for facilities, says “Purpose-Driven Pastor” Rick Warren. It is a key responsibility of leadership. See whether Warren’s eight reasons ring true for your church. (Photo by Lisafx, via Bigstock.com)

Visualizing the Need for Sabbath

October 22, 2013 By Sharron R. Blezard

Not only is Sabbath a commandment, it’s good for our health, relationships, economy, and environment. Unfortunately, the notion of Sabbath is often a countercultural one. Here’s a series of infographics that may help you communicate tangible benefits of Sabbath-keeping. (Photo: hiyori13, Creative Commons)

Simplicity: A Better Normal?

October 22, 2013 By Duane Elgin

Some may say simplicity is becoming the new normal–the way we must live to ensure a future for those who will come after us and for our entire planet. Another way to look at simplicity is as a “better” normal, as a way to sustain health, well-being, and community. Click here to Read Duane Elgin’s […]

Layaway Stewardship for Advent

October 17, 2013 By Sharron R. Blezard

Already we’re seeing signs of Christmas in the marketplace–and it’s only mid-October. Here’s an idea you can start now as an alternative to the commercial hype. Click here for the details! (Photo: Fan of Retail, Creative Commons)

Mindful Spending?

October 15, 2013 By Sharron R. Blezard

Here’s an article from the Chicago Tribune about the importance of spending mindfully. Gregory Karp interviews Wendy Philleo about ways to self-audit one’s consumption and spending habits. (Photo: Mikey Jones, Creative Commons)

A Recipe for Community

October 15, 2013 By Sharron R. Blezard

Some of these “ingredients” may seem like “no-brainers” to you, but author Linda Buzzell does an excellent job of outlining a strategy for community building that is applicable to faith communities and non-profits. (Photo: NAIT, Creative Commons)

First (and always)–Give Thanks

October 10, 2013 By Sharron R. Blezard

Twenty-first Sunday after Pentecost Lectionary Reflection, Year C
October 13, 2013
One of the greatest gifts we can give to each other in Christian community is that of helping one another cultivate a spirit of gratitude. If we do this, the glad hearts and generous spirits will follow. Saying “Thank you, Jesus” is enough, but it’s only the beginning.