Browsing
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)
At the Feet of the King
Christ the King Sunday Lectionary Reflection, November 24, 2013
Christ is the King of Kings, the ruler who turns all of our human notions and illusions of power squarely on their heads. In what by worldly definitions appears to be weakness and failure, Jesus shows that real power is rooted in love, bathed in grace, and covered with mercy. (Photo: Sue Hasker, Creative Commons)
First (and always)–Give Thanks
Twenty-first Sunday after Pentecost Lectionary Reflection, Year C
October 13, 2013
One of the greatest gifts we can give to each other in Christian community is that of helping one another cultivate a spirit of gratitude. If we do this, the glad hearts and generous spirits will follow. Saying “Thank you, Jesus” is enough, but it’s only the beginning.
Spiritual Vitality and Stewardship
Check out the September 2013 issue of the Episcopal Church Foundation’s Vital Practices Vestry Papers “Wholehearted Stewardship.” Be sure to read Fr. Bill Nesbit’s article “Spiritual Vitality.”
Gratitude Can Help You Through Hard Times
When life is going well, gratitude allows us to celebrate and magnify the goodness. But what about when life goes badly? In the midst of the economic maelstrom that has gripped our country, can people — or even should they — feel grateful? Not only will a grateful attitude help — it is essential. In fact, it is precisely under crisis conditions when we have the most to gain by a grateful perspective on life. (Photo by Tiger Girl, used by Creative Commons license. Thanks!)
Pious Materialism: How Americans View Faith and Money
Robert Wuthnow, Andlinger Professor of Sociology and Director of the Center for the Study of Religion at Princeton University, wrote this article for The Christian Century a decade ago, but his observations and critique of the failure of American churches and synagogues to address issues of faith and money in a substantive and effective way […]
So It Is
11th Sunday after Pentecost, August 4, 2013
Instead of preaching about greed, how about lifting the abundant life of interdependence and joy that Jesus teaches? Turn this lesson around and celebrate living life with focus, clarity, and purpose–in the moment–with God at the heart of everything. (Photo: Lori Bee, Creative Commons)
The Abundant Joy of Inter-dependence
Lectionary Reflection for the Seventh Sunday after Pentecost
July 7, 2013
This is a Sunday to celebrate all the good things God has done, including knitting together the Body of Christ in an interdependent way that enables us to do far more than we could ever do alone. (Photo: )
I Get Knocked Down…
Time after Pentecost Lectionary 10 Reflection, June 9, 2013
A lot of really good stuff is happening in today’s lessons. From dis-ease and death to hope and healing, we have reason to rejoice and sing. We may get knocked down by life, but God will lift us up again. Scroll down for worship ideas and suggestions for time with children and youth. Photo: © raywoo – Fotolia.com
‘Conversation Starter’ on Gratitude and Generosity
Our friends at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada have come up with a handy discussion guide on gratitude and generosity. It includes scripture and questions to get your workshop, seminar or study group headed in the right direction. (Photo © laurent hamels – Fotolia.com)
