Stewardship Moment- Bryant Morgan

What is Your Why?

​By Bryant T. Morgan

Good morning. I am here this morning as a member of the Stewardship Committee to respond to the
question, “What is your Why?” That is, why do I contribute to the parish? As I contemplated that
question, three reasons came to mind.

The first reason is to reciprocate the kindnesses that have been extended to me by others during
periods of humble circumstances. I, like many, have endured experiences in life that I would not wish to
repeat, but for which I am grateful because of the perspectives those provided me.

I remember, for example, during a time of destitution, walking into a grocery store wondering how to
maximize the purchasing power of my few dollars. At the entrance to the store, I encountered a
creatively stacked display of canned vegetables. I was startled by a thought that emerged, that was
foreign to me, but indicative of my circumstances, of how easy it would be to gather and walk away with
an armful of those cans without anyone noticing.

While thoughts such as those linger with me, those memories are overshadowed by recollections of acts
of kindness on my behalf by others. Those actions not only assisted me materially, but buoyed my
spirits, and allowed me to feel that I was valued and not alone in the world.

My life has improved since that time. A second reason that I give is as a measure of thanks for the
blessings of God that I enjoy and that surround us all. Those feelings are well summarized in a poem
that is touching to me written by Grace Noll Crowell.

Because I have been given much,
I too must give;
Because of thy great bounty Lord,
Each day I live;
I shall divide my gifts from thee
With every person that I see
Who has the need of help from me.

Because I have been sheltered, fed
By thy good care;
I cannot see another’s lack and I not share;
My glowing fire, my loaf of bread,
My roof's safe shelter overhead
That they too may be comforted.

Because I have been blessed by
thy great love dear Lord;
I’ll share thy love again
According to thy word;
I shall give love to those in need,
I’ll show that love by word and deed;
Thus shall my thanks be thanks in deed.

The third reason that I give, is because that is the appeal of Savior to us. The last recorded instruction of
Jesus to his disciples following his resurrections was, “Feed my sheep.” Although that instruction was
directed at Peter, I believe it applies to all of us. Caring for others seemed to be of such importance that
Jesus repeated the instruction three times. The scriptures tell us that Peter grieved at the repetition. I
grieve sometimes, too, when I realize that love for others and personal initiative on their behalf do not
come naturally to me. I am grateful for the weekly reminder in our services here that redirect my
thoughts in that orientation, and for this season of thanks and of giving that is upon us.

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