Today’s Gospel presents Jesus’ teachings on the two greatest commandments. Love the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. And love your neighbor as yourself. Let’s consider these “greatest commandments” as they relate to three aspects of a Christian steward’s daily life — the giving of our time, talent, and treasure.
 
The use of time refers primarily to our relationship with the Lord — in other words, our prayer life. Since time is a gift to me from God, I show my love for Him and my gratitude for this gift by giving Him the best portion of my time. Of course, it is vital to talk to God throughout the day, but if I really want to love Him with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength, shouldn’t I make time for God “first” on my agenda each day? Not as an afterthought, but as a time I have intentionally chosen to spend only with Him.
 
The use of talents refers to the way I offer the abilities, skills, and interests the Lord has given me for the good of those around me. Doing so is a practical way to “love my neighbor as myself.” At the same time, it is also a way to love the Lord with all that I am and have, since He has told us that whatever we do for others we are also doing for Him.
 
The use of material gifts — or treasure — likewise demonstrates both love of God and of neighbor. When I trustingly offer a sacrificial gift to God through the offertory collection, I am showing Him in a very tangible way that He comes before all else in my life and I am putting my material resources at the service of my neighbor in the parish community and beyond.
 
When we live for God and others, we are living a stewardship way of life. And like the wise scribe in today’s Gospel, we are moving closer to the kingdom of God, our ultimate destination.
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(1) All are invited to a Mass of Remembrance for our beloved departed tomorrow, November 2nd at 10:30am in St. Timothy Church.  

(2) We will be remembering our deceased loved ones in all the Masses in November.  Please drop your filled out All Souls envelopes in the box located in the community center or bring them to the parish office.  Click here to for more information.  

(3)  We are excited to announce that Operation Christmas Child will be happening on November 17th, starting at 1pm at St. Luke Church. This special family charity event welcomes all children, families and youth to participate. Please note that children must be accompanied by an adult. If you would like to sign up, donate a toy or help cover the $10 shipping cost per box, we will be hosting a fundraiser next weekend after each Mass. Please be sure to stop by our table at the community center. We hope to see you there as we come together to make a difference. Click here to watch a short video clip of last year's charity event.

(4) Support St. Luke's Skip-A-Meal Program and help feed our brothers and sisters served by our local St. Vincent de Paul Conference, Sandwiches on Saturday Ministry and Samaritan House.  Click here to give.