Stewardship of The First Fruits

In the first reading for this first Sunday of Lent, Moses recounts what the Lord did for the Israelites, bringing them out of bondage in Egypt and leading them to a fertile land.  Then Moses exhorts them to give the best of the produce of the land back to God, saying: “Therefore, I have now brought you the first fruits of the products of the soil which you, O LORD, have given me.’” 

Moses was teaching his people the art of good stewardship.  Note that it begins with recognition of what God has done for us and acknowledgment of the fact that ALL that we have is a blessing from God. 

Some stewardship questions to ponder during Lent:

What has God done for me?

How do I show my gratitude to God?

What are the first fruits of the blessings God has bestowed upon me?

How can I give back to God the best of my produce?

Let us pray: Lord God, help me to steward all You have given me with gratitude and joy for the glory of Your Name.  Amen.