One person’s actions can change the trajectory of the day. Being a good steward in your community while caring for the people, places, and resources around you has a ripple effect far beyond the imagination. Stewardship isn’t just about giving money or volunteering a few hours here and there; it’s about embracing a mindset of responsibility, gratitude, and intentional care for the world immediately around us.
At its core, stewardship is about being mindful of what has been entrusted to us—whether that’s our environment, our relationships, or the well-being of our neighborhoods. It means taking ownership, not in the sense of control, but in the sense of care. It’s about asking, How can I leave things better than I found them?
A good steward:
- Respects and preserves natural resources
- Supports local businesses and organizations
- Uplifts and invests in people
- Leads by example with integrity and kindness
- Understands that even small, consistent efforts matter
Accepting the position of Steward for our church, I wasn’t sure about my responsibilities. This became more complicated when I was given the job of prioritizing those responsibilities. I wasn’t even sure WHAT a Steward SHOULD be doing, and now, it was up to me and my fabulous husband, H(Hubba-Hubba-Hubbie or HHH) to create a job description.
Already helping with summer and winter bags for our homeless souls, I added that job to my list of responsibilities. The bags include socks, underwear, chapstick, water, snacks, playing cards, hand warmers, a small Bible, gloves, and ahat.
Our Griefshare group in another way that HHH and I are giving back. As a very small group, we’re getting to know each other very well. The support and love in the room makes our time together fly by. Those in grief are welcomed to a safe place for tears and support.
Our little church sits on quite a large piece of property. On one corner, a past minister developed a memorial garden. Over the years, many caregivers have tended the little park. At present, it sits a bit neglected. The third job on the list of Steward will be to bring the memorial garden into full bloom. This is something that will bring beauty to our entire community.
Even if you haven’t been appointed a formal position as Steward, there are many ways you can help in your own community.
Care for the Environment
Pick up litter. This may seem like a small act, but when multiplied by an entire community, it can make a lasting impact. Claim a small stretch of road, grab gloves and a bag, and get to it. A clean town shows that people care.
Support Local and Give Back
Shopping locally, donating to food banks, or volunteering at community organizations strengthens your town. Even simple acts like tipping generously or sharing a kind word with a small business owner can make a big difference.
Be a Neighbor in the True Sense
Good stewardship is also about relationships. Check-in on elderly neighbors. Mentor a young person. Offer a listening ear. Sometimes, being present is the most powerful form of stewardship.
Use Your Gifts for Good
We all have unique skills and talents. If you’re a great cook then prepare a meal for someone in need. If you have a knack for teaching, offer tutoring to a student who needs extra help. Share your gifts.
Foster Respect
Lead by example. Speak kindly. Show up for local meetings. Be a cheerleader for a thriving, inclusive, and healthy community. Stewardship includes building something better.
In the end, being a good steward isn’t about grand gestures; it’s about the small, meaningful choices we make every day. When enough commit to those choices, our communities will thrive, and that is a beautiful thing.
