webmaster posted on July 25, 2011 16:23
It was my day off and I had a long list of chores. Some were outdoor jobs, including cutting the grass. Some were indoor jobs, including repairing a toilet. The weather report said there was an increasing chance of rain as the day progressed. What should I do? As soon as it was “neighborly” I cut the grass! There were some chores I could do regardless of the weather, so I put them off to later in the day. It wasn’t a complicated process, but I had to set priorities and do first what had to be done first.
That is an essential skill of stewardship. A steward knows what’s important and makes sure it gets done first. Over the years I’ve often heard people say that when it comes to their financial support of the church, there never seems to be as much available as they would like to give. I understand the stresses of making a family budget work. It’s hard work, and doesn’t seem to be getting any easier. But there is a stewardship skill that needs to be developed. The first dollar is always there.
There is a category of offering described in the Old Testament called “first fruits” offerings. A portion of the first olive oil pressed, or the first grain milled was offered in gratitude for God’s provision. It embodies two essential truths. First, God gets first priority. We put God in the first place in all things, including our giving. Second, the first jar of oil, the first basket of grain are always there. If you give the first fruits, you never have to worry about running out.
Setting priorities is a skill of stewardship. It allows you to set appropriate goals what your giving in light of your income and all your responsibilities to family. Once those goals are established, you can meet them according to your priorities. First things first.
There’s a bumper sticker that I often see at food festivals held at Greek Orthodox churches. It says (in Greek!) “Proto O Theos.” God is first. It’s a good principle for all of life.
Jim Widmer, Pastor
Kenmore Baptist Church
Kenmore, NY