As part of our stewardship series, Be the Light, we are providing a weekly Study Companion for Small Groups and Personal Reflection to help us consider how God’s light shines through our words, choices, service, and generosity.

Download the complete Be the Light: A Study Companion for Small Groups & Personal Reflection here. Enjoy this week’s guide below:

Opening Reflection

Zacchaeus has become wealthy through an exploitative tax system. Yet before he explains himself or promises to change, Jesus sees him, calls him by name, and enters his home. Grace takes the initiative without ignoring the harm Zacchaeus has caused.

Zacchaeus responds with joy, generosity, and restitution. His giving does not earn Jesus’ welcome; it is the fruit of grace. Paul calls this transformation “new creation.” God reconciles us through Christ and then entrusts us with the ministry of reconciliation. Christian stewardship follows the same pattern: God gives first, and we respond. Our prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness testify that grace is changing our priorities and our lives.

Scripture Focus

Luke 19:1–10

2 Corinthians 5:17–20

Discussion Questions

1. What do you notice about the order of welcome, grace, and generosity in Zacchaeus’s story?
2. How can an encounter with grace change our relationship with money and possessions?
3. Where have you seen God change a life through Trinity’s ministry?
4. What commitment is God inviting you to make through your prayers, presence, gifts, service, or witness?
5. What is the difference between giving from gratitude and giving from guilt or pressure?
6. What do you hope God will accomplish through Trinity’s shared commitments in 2027?

Stewardship Invitation

Pause and reflect on four movements:

• What grace have you received?
• Where have you seen generosity change a life?
• What are you holding too tightly?
• What joyful commitment are you ready to make?

For Further Reflection

Grace comes before our response. Consider how the grace you have received is changing your priorities, your generosity, and the way you participate in God’s work.

Closing Prayer

Gracious God, you see us, call us by name, and welcome us before we have anything to offer. Let your grace reorder our priorities and renew our lives. Receive our commitments and use them to bring hope, healing, reconciliation, and light to others. Amen.

Rev. Dedric Cowser, Preaching