The acronym C.H.R.I.S.T. stands for the six components and virtues of stewardship: charity, humility, respect, investment, sacrifice, and thankfulness. Each of these Christian virtues undergirds the Christian reality of stewardship, especially at the intersection where money and faith meet. As we reflect and pray about our gifts it is noteworthy to briefly review each component in their Christian setting of stewardship and in relation to finances and faith.
Charity: The virtue of charity is a selfless act by those who have the means to enable, enrich, and empower others in the service of God, community, and neighbor. The practice of charity leads to a life of grace. Charity is also important in handling money. Christians are called to be good stewards of their finances and to be responsible for others quality of life as well because “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7).
Humility: The virtue of humility is rooted in the reality of truth and a deep awareness of our limitations and shortcomings. Humility is closely connected to apage (love) and is lowliness becoming selflessness. Observing humility in matters of money will curb greed and materialism and help to live moderately. Tempering humility and our own self-worth can be a delicate act, but a necessary one: “for everyone who exalts themselves will eventually be humbled” (Luke 18:14).
Respect: The virtue of respect is the foundation of any healthy relationship and it should be freely given and freely received. Respect also involves responsibility and both are necessary in handling money. Respect is an important for developing financial responsibility and integrity because it forces Christians to view money as a tool for stewardship not a measuring-stick of self-worth. “Give respect to all, love the community, fear God, honor the king” (1 Peter 2:17).
Investment: The virtue of investment is often overlooked by Christians; however, there are many ways to invest one’s self into something worthwhile: school, sports, family, relationships, God, and money. Investment in terms of stewardship is important because it allows Christians to develop practices that can become habitual and long term. “The person who is trustworthy in very small matters is also trustworthy in great ones; and the person who is dishonest in very small matters is also dishonest in great ones” (Luke 16:10).
Sacrifice: The virtue of sacrifice is closely connected to spirituality and stewardship because sacrifice is part of living the Christian live. Unfortunately, knowing when and how to sacrifice is something that few people understand. In terms of finances and money, sacrifice requires that the amassing of material goods and wealth or the accumulation of financial debt should not get in the way of Christian ideals. “Live in love. . . and as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (Ephesians 5:2).
Thanksgiving: The virtue of thanksgiving is paramount in the Catholic tradition because it is strongly associated with gratitude (gratus—“thankful”) and Eucharist (eucharistia—“thanksgiving”) as responses and signs of the God’s wonderful gifts. Stewardship is born out of thanksgiving and love for Jesus the Christ the par excellence gift of God! If Christians are not thankful for the gifts they have then it may be quite difficult to share with others their time, talent, and treasure. “Do not cease to give thanks. . . to God” (Ephesians 1:16).
These six components of stewardship are essential to learning about faith-based money management, sacrificial giving, and living as a Christian disciple in a complex world.
Stewardship is a Catholic Christian way of life based on the spiritual principles of the Old Testament and the teachings of Jesus in the Gospels. When lovingly embraced, Christian stewardship produces a spirituality that refreshes our lives with the Holy Spirit, deepens our relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ, and glorifies our Heavenly Father.
Simply stated, stewardship is an expression of gratitude to God. It reminds us that we are the administrators, not the owners, of our assets. It fills a need deep within each of us to worship God and to thank Him for the abundant blessings He has showered upon us.
God Bless,
Msgr. John Shamleffer