The gospel economy and national budgets

Conversations for the last few days has been about Monday’s five hour reading of the national budget by the finance minister.

At first glance, this Sunday’s gospel bears no relevance or connection to the government’s fiscal package into the new year. In Mark 10:2–16, Jesus addresses two seemingly disparate topics: divorce and children.

However, when viewed through the lens of Pope Francis’ September 25 address The Economy of Francesco and in the context of national budgets, we can draw profound connections between these teachings and what should be the approach to economic policy.

Jesus’ teaching on divorce emphasises the sanctity and permanence of relationships. He states, “So then, what God has united, man must not divide” (Mk 10:9). This principle can be extended to our economic relationships and commitments.

In his address, Pope Francis calls for an economy that doesn’t “produce waste but material and spiritual well-being.” Just as a marriage is meant to be a lasting bond that produces fruit, our economic systems should foster enduring relationships that generate sustainable prosperity.

Long-term economic stability should be prioritised over short-term gains. Policies that strengthen social bonds, support families, and invest in community infrastructure align with this gospel value. A budget that reflects these priorities might allocate more resources to education, healthcare, and social services, recognising that strong societal relationships form the foundation of a robust economy.

The second part of the gospel passage focuses on Jesus’ welcoming children, “Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs” (Mk 10:14). This powerful image of inclusion and care for the vulnerable resonates strongly with Pope Francis’ economic vision.

The Pope said there is the need to “love the economy, concretely love the workers, the poor, prioritizing the situations of greatest suffering.” He calls for an economy that doesn’t hide from the world’s challenges but engages with them courageously, like Christians who are “entrepreneurs of dreams” rather than “administrators of fears”.

In a national budget, there should be allocations that address child poverty, support early childhood development, and create opportunities for young people.

Moreover, the Pope’s message challenges us to measure our economic success not just by GDP growth, but by how well we care for the “little ones” among us.

It calls for responsible stewardship of resources, investment in sustainable technologies, and policies that protect the environment.

A national budget informed by this perspective might prioritise innovation, particularly in green technologies, and invest in educational programmes that foster creativity and entrepreneurship.

Jesus’ teachings often challenged the status quo, much like the economic reforms Pope Francis advocates. The Pope encourages young economists to “be witnesses, do not be afraid, hope without tiring.”

Certainly, the time is ripe for bold reforms that may challenge established economic orthodoxies so as to ensure there are no perceptions of disconnection with cost-of-living realities. It could involve implementing progressive tax structures that more equitably distribute wealth, or investing in social enterprises that prioritise community benefit over pure profit.

Overall, if we are to be ‘steadfast and resolute’ to forge T&T into true pathways of prosperity, maybe it’s time for the powers that be to reimagine our national budget.