They will have learned to give because they want to continue to follow the example Christ sets before us. We need to break through the cycle of thinking that we give to the church because if we don't it will not survive or be able to pay it's bills. The foundation we need to lay for our children is one of responding to what God in Christ has already done and continues to accomplish, to lead our lives as Christ led his. If we reach out to our children with this understanding of stewardship we will instill in them a love and grace rooted in the death and resurrection of Christ. The stewardship that ensues cannot help but be true and faithful.
Children are natural stewards, especially at the lower grades.
If we make this the way they live by getting them involved and living their faith, and then continue this through our total Christian studies program we will nurture and grow steward-responsible adults. It is up to us as teachers to provide the opportunities and examples to our children of faithful, responsive stewardship. It is truly fulfilling to have a parent come and share a story such as this one. I have to tell you what Joe did the other day. I received a phone call from his present teacher that he had brought in a large amount of money to help with a Christmas collection to buy gifts for children less fortunate than himself.