stewardship

It’s not about me.

The name Denethor might not mean much to you. If you’re a Lord of the Ring nerd like me, maybe. But if you’ve seen the movies and/or read the books, I’ll bet you remember the character. Denethor was the steward of Gondor, living in the city of Minas Tirith. And do you know why he is so memorable. Because he was horrible!

The line of kings had run out. No one was wearing the crown at Minas Tirith. But someone had to be in charge. Leadership is always necessary. So, in the absence of the king, Denethor was chosen to be the steward. It was his responsibility to see that the people of Gondor were taken care of. There was no strict job description. There was just one rule: rule well. Be a good steward. Unfortunately, he wasn’t. He only cared for himself. He tried to please himself, bring himself more power, influence and pleasure. He hated the thought that he wasn’t in complete control. Denethor believed it really was about him.

Stewardship really isn’t complicated. It’s a big word with various meanings. I suppose that makes it a bit intimidating and complex to some. But really it’s not. Like Denethor, we have been chosen. In the absence of the King, we have been given responsibilities. And there is no exhaustive list of “dos” and “don’ts”. It’s quite simple: rule well. Be a good steward. Well, are we?

See, it’s very important we realize that ultimately we don’t call the shots. In the long run, we’re not in charge. This is not about me. We are simply stewards of the Master. To view life any other way is extremely short sighted and naïve. Our talents, skills, gifts and abilities were given to us by the Master. Are we good stewards of them? Our money, investments, portfolios and credit cards? Gifts from the King. Even our family, health, time, attitudes—everything you can think of—it’s not ours at all. It all belongs to Him. We are stewards of that which is His. Are we doing well? Do you think He is pleased?

Let’s not be so negative, though. Denethor is an example of a very poor steward. He only thought of himself. He forgot the fact that there was a King out there waiting to settle accounts. Let’s focus on a very good steward. Let’s find someone to emulate. There are many, certainly, but the first one that comes to my mind is a tiny little woman we came to know as Mother Teresa.
A good steward is others-centered. Mother Teresa never thought of herself first, but others. She wasn’t thinking of her own comfort and pleasure when she opened up a home for the dying in Calcutta, India. A good steward is generous. Nothing really belonged to Mother Teresa. She freely and joyfully gave to anyone who had need. A good steward is also benevolent. Mother Teresa didn’t just give money or food or medicine. She gave herself. Her greatest gift was her own heart. A good steward is accountable. This amazing sister in Christ knew that she was doing the Master's work and would answer to Him some day. And, finally, a good steward is passionate. Our Master graciously allows us to follow our deepest passions. Clearly, Mother Teresa truly loved and cherished the poor, sick and dying. Even into her last days, they were the focus of her prayers, thoughts and actions.

My life isn’t actually mine at all. I am living as a steward of God almighty. Everything that I am and know and say and feel…it’s all for the Master. And this church will be the same. Holy Seed Community Church is a gathering of stewards. We all serve the same Lord and pursue the same destiny. Our entire existence is to bring glory, honor and praise to Jesus Christ. This is all about Him. It is not about me.