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Probably your parish has many families like those in this month’s parable – some who seem completely unaware of their impact on their surroundings and some who approach the subjects of recycling and the environment with almost religious fervor. Sitting side by side in the pew are folks who are actively campaigning to stop global warming and others who, with equal conviction, believe that the current warm-up is part of a recurrent climate cycle and not man-made. Who is right? Where should the parish stand on this issue? And does a stewardship parish have to take a stand?
As we come closer and closer to elections, there seem to be more and more topics with the potential to polarize a parish… Some parishioners are organizing and seeking space in the bulletin to publicize an upcoming anti-war rally and some are anxious about family members currently deployed in Iraq or Afghanistan and distressed that the parish isn’t praying for them more regularly. Differing, but equally heart-felt opinions on subjects ranging from immigration, healthcare, education, and how to help the poor to the appropriate strategy to deal with a dwindling number of ordained ministers and whether or not to add a Mass in Latin all threaten to divide people of good will. What’s a good steward to do? And is it even a stewardship question?
It is. We have been given life and gifts of mind and heart. We have been given the gift of faith and the responsibility to live it out in the world as those gifts of life and time, of mind and heart, allow. But we are all children of God. Our differences contribute to the rich tapestry of human life and are themselves gifts from God. And our unity as the people of God, as those God has called into relationship with Christ as church, is a precious gift, too. In these difficult, polarizing times, it is good stewardship to foster the gift of hospitality, making sure that all are welcome, regardless of political attitudes and opinions. And then, counting each one as a brother or sister in Christ, to heed the words of the prophet Micah and strive to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with our God and each other. Oh, Lord, help us to celebrate our differing gifts, strengthen and enhance our hospitality, and preserve our unity as your church. Amen.
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