Thrive Thought: A Reflection on Christmas Stewardship

THRIVE THOUGHT
A Reflection on Christmas Stewardship

In the heart of the Christmas season lies a profound truth about God’s immeasurable love for humanity. This love was most vividly expressed when He gave His only Son to redeem us, a promise encapsulated in John 3:16. In the quietude of a solitary moment, if one reflects on this unparalleled act of divine generosity, the essence of the Advent season becomes crystal clear. It is an essence defined by love, generosity, obedience, and hope.

The festive celebrations, the glittering lights, and the joyful carols are significant, yet they pale in comparison to the central theme of Christmas—honoring Jesus Christ. It’s in this honoring that we find our true purpose during this season. We are recipients of the greatest gift ever given—salvation through Jesus Christ. But along with this gift comes a profound responsibility: stewardship of the manifold blessings God has entrusted to us.

These blessings are diverse and abundant. From tangible assets such as wealth and resources to intangible gifts such as knowledge, talents, and the ability to give generously—all emanate from God (2 Corinthians 9:10-11, James 1:17, 1 Corinthians 12:1-11). Our response to this stewardship, our management of these divine endowments, serves as a testament to our gratitude towards God for all He has done for us (1 Corinthians 4:1-2).

Expanding Our View of Stewardship at Christmas
During Christmas, as we celebrate the birth of Christ, we ought to ask ourselves, “Is Jesus the focal point of our celebrations?” Ideally, He should be. After all, we are commemorating His birth. Our expressions of love and generosity should mirror the character of Christ, embodying the values He lived by. The act of giving, as demonstrated by God and Jesus, brings with it an inherent joy, a joy that we are invited to experience during Christmas (Proverbs 11:25).

Our stewardship is not confined to financial contributions. God’s concern extends to the well-being of the less fortunate—the poor, the vulnerable, and the destitute. He cares deeply for His church and yearns to redeem the world through the gospel message (Matthew 28:18-20).

In this grand design, each of us plays a vital role. Stewardship encompasses every aspect of our lives, not just our finances (1 Peter 4:7). We are called to use our faith, our varied talents, and our unique graces to draw others to Christ (Romans 12:3). Let the gifts God has entrusted to us shine brightly this Christmas, illuminating the path to Jesus (Matthew 5:14-16).

Practical Ways to Honor God Through Stewardship This Christmas

• Support Your Church: Consider giving a special financial gift to your church to support its ministries (Proverbs 3:9-10, 2 Corinthians 9:7, Mark 12:41-44).
• Help the Vulnerable: Donate to organizations that assist orphans and widows (James 1:27).
• Aid the Needy: Give generously to the poor, homeless, and charities that further the kingdom of God.
• Forgive Others: Emulate Jesus’ forgiveness (Colossians 3:13, Matthew 18:22).
• Family: Spend meaningful time with your family, offering gifts that reflect the spirit of Jesus.
• Share the Gospel: Spread the message of love, joy, peace, hope, and forgiveness.
• Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to places in need.

A Prayer for the Season
Heavenly Father, Your Son, Jesus, is the embodiment of Your love for us. As we navigate this Advent, help us to embody that love in our interactions, decisions, and celebrations. Draw us closer to each other and to Jesus, preparing our hearts to fully embrace the true meaning of Christmas. Amen.

Dr. Christie Dike, retired, is an active member of Thrive Financial Ministry. She is blessed with a surviving son, Roy Dike, and spent her professional life teaching in higher education.