Lent calls us into deeper everyday stewardship because it beautifully creates opportunities to be mindful of the call of Christ in even the most mundane moments of our day.

Many of us will participate in the time-honored tradition of doing penance, or “giving something up” for Lent. When we do this, we are mimicking the Israelites who filled their baskets with the first fruits of their harvest, “and having set them before the Lord, your God, (bowing) down in his presence” (Deuteronomy 26:10).

What are we going to bring before the Lord this Lent? What are our first fruits?

If you’re struggling with ideas for how to “fill your basket,” it can help to come at the problem from the opposite side. Take a look at the six characteristics of Everyday Stewardship and think about the moments in your day when you fail to fulfill the virtues to which they call you.

What is keeping you from being mindful of the call of Christ throughout your day? I promise you, if you listen, you’ll hear it more than once.

What is keeping you from being prayerful? When you have set your first fruits before the Lord, what keeps you from bowing down in His presence to finish the offering?

What keeps you from being grateful — especially of the small things that so often go unnoticed?

What keeps you from being gracious, from leaving people smiling as they walk away?

What keeps you from being committed and accountable? Where do your excuses come from and what makes you indulge them?

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