It is one of the quotes which talks about the way we behave and misbehave in our daily lives. We, as humans, want to feel good about ourselves. At times we conceal what we have done because we are not proud of our conduct or are actually ashamed of ourselves. The only one who knows all that we have done is God, our Holy Father. We will never be able to conceal ourselves, our hearts, or our souls from Him.

How does this relate to stewardship? Another quote which I recently read by a religious leader stated that Every person’s checkbook is a theological document. It tells you who and what they worship. Of course, we see only our own checkbooks and charge account statements. God also sees them and sees who we are and what we worship.

What does your checkbook say about you? It may show that you have few or many bills to pay. It may show that you have interesting hobbies which require a steady expenditure of cash to pursue. It may show that your monthly expenses at the hair salon and spa could actually feed a family of four. Some may have multiple entries for the wine and liquor store near your home. Other individuals will have monthly entries for their country clubs or social clubs. Your credit accounts at retail stores will make an appearance in your check register. You may have automatic payments set for certain accounts.

Yes, it costs a lot of money to live in this wonderful society which offers so many tantalizing goodies. You may be thinking of your next electronic purchase or vacation to a warmer setting as an escape from this cold weather. Yes, there is a recession and newspapers have reported how people are eating home more often and not doing "take-out" or restaurant meals. Many of our grandparents and parents would be amazed at how many meals have not been cooked at home.

In your checkbook or charge account statements, are entries for St. Sophia Church found with any frequency? Are the ways you spend your money a reflection of the quality of human being to which you have aspired to be in this life? How much do you trust God? How often do you bow your head in prayer to thank God? How deep is your gratitude to God for all you have in life? In your heart, mind, and soul do you believe you are a faithful giver? God knows all the answers to these questions because your heart, mind, and soul are revealed to him and so are the contents of your checkbook and your bills.