| Understanding Giving |
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Understanding
“Stewardship,” “Tithing” and “Sacrificial Giving” There is a great deal of confusion surrounding the terms “stewardship,” “tithing” and “sacrificial giving.” This is perhaps because of the common misuse of these terms interchangeably. A brief explanation of each is helpful. Stewardship. Stewardship is generally defined as the practice of considering and treating all things of the earth, including ones own life (time, talent and treasure) as belonging to God. As all belongs to God, we are merely caretakers (“stewards”) of these things. Therefore, we are called to use these things responsibly and for God. (1 Cor 4:1-2; 1 Pt 4:4:10). Tithing. As previously discussed, tithing refers to the giving away of a portion of one’s income to God (directly or indirectly). This percentage is commonly a tenth. Sacrificial Giving. This term encompasses both stewardship and tithing. Recognizing that we have been given everything by God and owe everything to Him, sacrificial giving is a voluntary, proportionate, systematic, sacrificial and liturgical giving of money, divided between several recipients, that is part of a larger giving of time talent and treasure. Sacrificial Giving Concepts
Proportionate: For some, 10% may be too much, for others too little. Ideally, it includes paychecks, dividends, social security payments, allowances, windfalls, etc. Systematic: It should be part of a budget, as income is received, not when it is convenient to give or “when someone really needs it.” Sacrificial: The act of giving “makes holy” (the literal meaning of the word “sacrifice”) the efforts and earnings of that week/month. But, if the amount given is so nominal that it causes no discomfort, it is a “gift,” but not truly a “sacrifice.” Liturgical: The bringing forth of gifts during the celebration of Mass “consecrate” the hours worked and income received. Divided: Half is given weekly to the local parish collection. Half is set aside for independent giving (favorite charities, diocesan collections, mission appeals, etc.). Click Here to donate to LOTWEM |
