Today’s readings serve as both encouragement and clear direction for us as Christian stewards. They leave little doubt about what matters most to God and how He intends for us to use the gifts He has placed in our care.
In the first reading, the prophet Isaiah delivers unmistakable instruction: “Share your bread with the hungry, shelter the oppressed and the homeless; clothe the naked when you see them, and do not turn your back on your own.”
There is no room for hesitation here. Care for our brothers and sisters in need is not optional — it is a core responsibility of the Christian steward. These commands also require action — to share, to shelter, to clothe, and to remain faithful even within the challenges of family life.
At the same time, Isaiah reminds us of God’s generosity when we live this way. “Then your light shall break forth like the dawn, and your wound shall quickly be healed… Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer… Then light shall rise for you in the darkness.” God calls us to serve others because He created us for this very purpose. When we give ourselves away, we discover who we are meant to be. God’s grace increases within us, and His joy and peace take deeper root in our hearts. This is the beauty of a stewardship way of life.
In the second reading, St. Paul reassures us that we need not rely on our own abilities to answer this call. It is the Lord who works through us when we step forward in faith. Paul admits, “I did not come with sublimity of words or of wisdom… I came to you in weakness and fear and much trembling… so that your faith might rest not on human wisdom but on the power of God.”
Our weaknesses are no obstacle to God. In fact, He often uses them to reveal His glory when we are willing to cooperate with His grace. This should encourage us when we feel unqualified or unsure.
The Gospel then sends us out with a clear mission. Jesus calls His disciples — and us — the “salt of the earth” and the “light of the world.” But salt loses its purpose if it grows stale, and light cannot shine if it is hidden. Our faith must be lived openly. We are called to act so that others may see how we serve, how we care for the vulnerable, how we prioritize our families, and above all, how we love God — and through our witness, give glory to Him.
This is the stewardship way of life. Let us live it with conviction.
