So, just what is a steward? What is stewardship? Stewardship can be defined as God's call to us to make good choices with our time, abilities and money. God has given us everything — our whole life and all that is in it, the earth and all that is in it. Wow! God has entrusted us with the care of these blessings. God calls us to honor our commitments, care for the earth, make good use of our resources and give from our abundance. Often, when we talk about stewardship, we think in terms of tithing our money — and for good reason. The church does need money to function and to help fulfill its mission to bring the gospel to the world. But tithing our money is just one part of what it means to be a steward. Stewardship is also about the way we choose to conduct ourselves in this world; it is about all the ways we say, "Yes!" to God.

What if we thought about Stewardship in terms of our whole lives instead of only our financial lives? We often talk of tithing our money, but what if we also gave God 10% of our time in service to others? What if we offered this service in ways and in places that may be outside our comfort zone? How might we offer our abilities, our "assets," to those beyond our walls? Part of the purpose of the "We say YES!" program is to lay the groundwork for this kind of stewardship: going out into the world, right here in Marquette County, and using our God-given gifts to enrich the kingdom of God. Such action may seem a bit frightening, until we remember that God walks with us every step of the way — and isn't it exciting to imaging the possibilities? During this time of pastoral vacancy, it seems especially fitting to join together to honestly examine these issues.

You are invited and encouraged to participate in the "We say YES!" bible study series, which begins April 30th and concules May 22nd. Each week, the study will be offered during the Sunday School hour, beginnng at 9:15 a.m. and again on Monday evening, at 6:30 p.m. (Please see complete calendar). Each session will meet for approximately one hour at Trinity to discuss the four "theme" questions of our stewardship program: Where are you? What have you done? Where is your sister/brother/neighbor? Who do you say that I am? Through bible study and reflection, we will seek answers to these questions. Along the way, we will hopefully gain some insight into what direction Trinity is headed and perhaps find the courage to contemplate entirely new directions for our ministry together.

A closing prayer as we contemplate the journey ahead...

Abundant Provider, who have chosen us to be your children. With amazing love You have redeemed us through your Son, Jesus Christ. You have saved us; we are yours. You have also entrusted us with much time and many blessings. Grant us the power to use them wisely. Give us the courage to serve you well. Fill our hearts with a resounding "Yes!" Amen

Say "Yes!" to God's call, become a steward of God's mysteries. God has some wonderful surprises in store for you.

Excerpts & prayer courtesy of Augsburg Fortress, copyright 2004. Permission granted to reproduce material for congregational use.