I once had a parishioner whose husband’s family had lived in the same big house for generations. He and his father had both grown up there, and perhaps his grandfather had, too. My parishioner moved in as a young bride and was in her 60s when I knew her. Every time she and her husband had to make a decision about household improvements or repairs, they did so with an eye to the future the home would have as the abode of loved ones when they themselves were no longer alive. My parishioner saw herself and her husband as stewards, caretakers of something precious that did not in the end belong to them.
I think about that parishioner every autumn during pledge season. She understood stewardship at a gut level because she and her husband lived it every day. The treasure they had received was not ultimately theirs; just as the husband’s family had done for generations, they cheerfully worked as caretakers for the benefit of those who would come after them.
You and I are stewards, too. All that we have comes to us as a gift from our loving God; and ultimately we will not be taking any of it with us. Our pledges to St. Andrew’s for the coming year are a way for us to invest in the future not only of our beloved building and grounds but also—and more importantly—in the future of the people who will worship here in years to come, and of the people beyond our doors whom we and they will serve in Christ’s name.
I am grateful to be stewarding St. Andrew’s alongside each of you. Mindful of the many blessings in our lives and of the call to be good stewards, John and I will be increasing our pledge for the coming year. I hope you’ll consider doing the same.
Blessings.
Anne
