Torch, Summer 1985

6 Stewardship of Relationships by Rev . Joseph M. Stowell T he three men were lifelong friends and had dreamed of this trip for years. Now, after setting sail in their own yacht to cross the Pacific, they found themselves marooned on a deserted island. Much to their sur– prise a "genie" appeared on the beach granting each a wish. The first said he missed his brokerage business and promptly disappeared from the is– land . The next said he wished he was playing golf and found himself stand– ing on the first tee of his favorite golf course. The last, suddenly feeling very alone and missing his companions, said, "I wish my friends were back. " Relationships. They are a tricky , risky piece in the puzzle of life, yet they are among our highest treasures. Fulfilling relationships make one's life rich; to be without them is to be truly poor. Everyone needs relationships. Though God promises to be our friend and constant companion, He knows that we need companionship in human terms as well - companions that we can talk to , see, touch, and hear. God gave Eve to Adam , Jonathan to David , Paul to Timothy, Naomi to Ruth, John to Jesus. Granted , some of us are prone to shy away from relationships, but the truth of the matter is that we can't avoid them. Relating is everyone's business. Everyday, like it or not , we are thrust into relationships with spouses, brothers, sisters , parents , clients , employers , pastors , fellow Christians, associates, teachers , friends, dates, and clerks at the gro– cery store. Doing our part in creating meaningful relationships is our per– sonal responsibility. We are stewards of the opportunity . As stewards we will be held ac– countable to God , since He requires that we relate to others in the con- structive context of kindness , love, forgiveness , patience, gentleness, and understanding. Our stewardship will have personal impact as well when we experience the reproof or reward, the pain or pleasure of how well we relate to others. Good relationships are a lot like gardens. Both require investment and maintenance, planting and watering , killing the bugs that destroy, waiting, enjoying . Good stewards do every– thing in their power to make each re~ lationship fruitful and fulfilling. How does that happen? I am fascinated by ways in which Christ has established his relation– ship with me (John 15:15). Because He is the perfect Friend , He provides a clear pattern. INITIATIVE - Christ always takes the first step . He took the initia– tive to establish a relationship with the disciples , Israel , you , and me.