Serving Bread

Pundits tell us that our economy is weak. One headline in my Yahoo News Reader said that the economy needs “rescuing.” Two of the three branches of government are focusing their energy to care for our economy, the Federal Reserve is urging for a federal response to our economic downturn, and every presidential candidate is going back to the adage that worked so well for Bill Clinton, “It’s the economy, stupid!”

The big proposal on the table is a tax refund to middle-class Americans. Here’s what they are talking about in Washington:

Aides to lawmakers involved in the talks said the White House is pressing for tax rebates of $800 for individuals and $1,600 for married couples. Lawmakers were likely to settle on a $500 rebate for individuals, said an aide involved in the talks, with details for couples and people with children still being negotiated.

Fed Chairman Fred Bernanke “endorsed the idea of putting money into the hands of those who would spend it quickly and boost the flagging economy.”

Our economic model depends strongly on consumerism. For example, the lackluster holiday season that just passed has many politicians and economists worried that our economy is in trouble. What does it mean for us that we live within an economic model that encourages or even thrives on buying more things? This model is in contrast to the Bible’s teachings. The Bible is clear on how we should relate with “stuff.” It doesn’t teach accumulation but radical generosity and faithful stewardship. (See Luke 12)

Crisis moments often teach us about ourselves and our values. As we feel an economic downturn that could very well turn into a recession, we will see (if not already apparent) our values exposed. However we may feel about our economic model, it’s important to remember that this is far from what the Bible would preach. I don’t pretend to know how God would intend for us to relate economically, but it’s far from American capitalism.

Having said that, we should remember that there will be plenty of resources and wisdom on what should be done to help our economy and how we should steward our finances. Anything that is not shaped by what Scripture teaches falls short to be our needed solution.

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