I have four things to say about stewardship, and only one of them has to do with dollars.

Not that I mind talking about money. I think the organized church is not always honest on the subject-and particularly with people who have it. Several of my wealthy friends who became Christians in midlife have been immediately asked to serve on every board and committee in sight, for the benefit of their "prayers and counsel." The truth is they hadn't been Christians long enough to have much of a prayer life, and their counsel certainly wasn't worth much, since they knew little about religious organizations in America.

What the inviters did want was their money. I wish they had been honest enough to say that. Two or three of my friends went through some very trying times once they realized how they'd been played for suckers.

But first:

We Are Stewards of Relationships

The early church was not famous for how it grew, nor even for its balanced budget. It was known for the way people loved one another.

I ...