“To encourage generosity, our report also suggests that discussions of money should be brought up within the larger context of a parish’s mission and vision. Such discussions will be especially beneficial if parishioners gain a clear understanding that an active and growing spiritual life requires [everyone] to recognize money and possessions as gifts of grace, which they are called to manage and share as good stewards.”
Brian Starks in Unleashing Catholic Generosity: Explaining the Catholic Giving Gap in the United States, page 3.
While there are many other findings in this study that focused on giving in Catholic churches, I love the idea that everyone must understand that money and possessions are “gifts of grace” to manage and share as good stewards.
What do you have? Perhaps take inventory and give thanks for everything as “gifts of grace” but don’t stop there. Put those resources to work as a faithful steward while also sharing with others in need.
Once you are living this way, go teach others what you are learning. The research shows this will stimulate Christian generosity among your community of faith.