I will never forget the Sunday many years ago when our children first objected to attending Mass. They were teenagers at the time. I thought to pull the ‘obligation’ card, however, the spirituality of stewardship had taught me better. I reminded them of the many blessings they enjoy every week. For example: a warm bed; mom’s excellent cooking; their friends at school; and sports. Asking if they were grateful for it all, they responded, “Of course we are!” Then, I reminded them that it was all God’s gift and going to Mass was the best way to thank Him for it all. They never complained about going to Mass again. They still attend, with joy, today. Gratitude moves people much more than obligation; and they move with joy.

I thought to pull the ‘obligation’ card, however, the spirituality of stewardship had taught me better!

Secularism is removing the Ten Commandments from public places and policy. Secularists are ignoring that “God spoke all these words”. (Exodus 20:1) I like to look at the Ten Commandments through the lens of stewardship. For example, the Fourth Commandment – Keep the Sabbath Holy. Every day is a gift from God and something that we can always be grateful for. Gratitude inspires us to be good stewards of each day.

Gratitude moves people much more than obligation; and they move with joy!

In total, there are 168 hours in a week. Attending Mass every Sunday is a great way for us to give one of those hours back to God, in thanksgiving. And, we can do even better than that! Let’s reclaim the whole Sabbath. There is such joy in dedicating the entire day to God. Spending the day with family or taking some time for yourself is so rewarding – God has set it up that way. Being a good steward of Sunday is like imitating God’s own rest on the seventh day of creation. Moreover, putting God first every day of the week is the way to experience the abundant life (John 10:10) that Jesus came to give us.