September normally marks the return to the full range of mission and ministry activities in congregations. Schools have started again, vacations are largely over and it’s time to resume normal congregational activities. We have just celebrated “Rally Day” Sunday, August 29, which provides an encouragement to move forward as God’s people, regardless of age. So, why not a “Rally Day” for Christian stewards?

Christian stewardship is not like a hundred yard dash. It’s more like a marathon. Good marathon runners have learned to cope with the grueling aspects of the course. They know that sudden bursts followed by periodic let-ups will not win a marathon. If you are going to be successful in a marathon, you must realize that you are in it for the long haul. It takes persistence and perseverance. So does living the Christian life.

It is no wonder that we find passages in the Bible like 1 Corinthians 15:58: “Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” St. Paul wrote something similar in Galatians 6:9–10: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”

There is no higher calling in life than to be maturing Christian stewards who do the right things for the right reasons and strive for excellence in all they do.

September, the beginning of a new year of ministry, is a great time to re-dedicate ourselves to using all that we are and have (talents, abilities, money, opportunities) to make a difference in the kingdom of God. And, as St. Paul reminded us in Galatians 6:10, let’s start right where we are with those closest to us and then keep on going from there.

Isn’t it an exciting thought to know that the world can be a better place because we are here?

Saint John’s Stewardship Board promotes the development of good stewardship and giving patterns among the members of Saint John’s.