Browsing by Sharron R. Blezard
Why our Brains Work Against Good Stewardship
Why, as human beings, do we tend toward consumerism and often fail to be good stewards of the resources we have on loan from God? Here’s an interesting article delving into some of the science behind the phenomenon. Click here to read the article. (Photo by Mitch Altman, used by Creative Commons license. Thanks!)
Change of Plans
Lectionary Reflection for the Fourth Sunday of Advent, Year A
December 22, 2013
Yes, it will soon be Christmas, but we’re not there yet. Why not spend some time today reflecting on how a change of plans in Joseph’s life made all the difference–both to him and to this world. God is still in the business of changing plans and lives. How is God speaking to you? (Photo:
Life is a Highway
Lectionary Reflection for the Third Sunday of Advent, Yr A
December 15, 2013
If life is a highway, then one would do well to travel the hopeful route described in this week’s lesson from isaiah. Maybe now, as Christmas draws ever closer, we need to hear this message of hope. (Photo: Matt McGee, Creative Commons)
Giving to Combat Materialism
Check out Randy Alcorn’s 11 guidelines for giving. They’ll help combat materialism and provide solid stewardship guidance for God’s abundance. (Photo: Alexandre Dulaunoy, Creative Commons)
Don’t Buy – Make Christmas Gifts!
Gift-giving doesn’t have to be expensive. Check out this article about hand-made, home-crafted gifts. You can be a good steward of resources AND give meaningful, useful gifts that won’t end up in someone’s sock drawer or garbage can. (Photo: Muffet, Creative Commons)
Fling Wide the Doors, Church!
Lectionary Reflection for the Second Sunday of Advent, Year A, December 8, 2013
Could this week’s Advent lessons offer an opportunity to talk about how to be a welcoming church and an hospitable people? How can we welcome others as Christ has welcomed us? ‘Tis the season, and we have the best reason! (Photo: sage, Creative Commons)
“What Would Jesus Buy?”
Here’s a documentary film produced by Morgan Spurlock and featuring performance activist Reverend Billy and the Church of Stop Shopping that’s perfect for exploring over-consumption at Christmas. Click here to access the full film on YouTube. (Photo: disrupsean, Creative Commons)
Expecting the Unexpected
Lectionary Reflection, First Sunday of Advent, Year A December 1, 2013 Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour. — Matthew 24:44 What do you expect of this season? What does Advent mean to you? Is it a time of waiting and watching for glimpses of […]
Habits of Gratitude
Jeremy Adam Smith of the Greater Good Science Center points to six traits grateful people habitually exhibit. While not specifically linked to stewardship and faith practice, these six traits are reflective of Christian teaching and discipleship practice. Read on for the full story! (Photo: angies, Creative Commons)
DIY Instead of BUY
The new d0-it-yourself movement is reminding us that we do have alternatives. In addition to being fun, thrifty, and personal, making things yourself is immensely rewarding. Check out this article from MNN with abundant links. You’ll find suggestions for gifts, bread, toys, cosmetics, household cleaners, and much more. (Photo: chatirygirl, Creative Commons)
