The life of a Christian steward models the life of Jesus. It is challenging and

even difficult, in many respects, yet intense joy comes to those who take the

risk to live as Christian stewards. Women and men who seek to live as

stewards learn that & quote ;all things work for good for those who love God & quote ; (Rom

8:28).

After Jesus, we look to Mary as an ideal steward. As the Mother of Christ, she

lived her ministry in a spirit of fidelity and service; she responded generously

to the call. We must ask ourselves: Do we also wish to be disciples of Jesus

Christ and Christian stewards of our world and our Church? Central to our

human and Christian vocations, as well as to the unique vocation each one of

us receives from God, is that we be good stewards of the gifts we possess.

God gives us this divine-human workshop, this world and Church of ours. The Spirit shows us the way. Stewardship is a part of that journey.