A call for modesty
Dear Editor,
As a concerned member of the clergy I feel compelled to address the just-concluded Jamaica Carnival festivities. While celebrations are an integral part of our cultural fabric, we must critically examine the impact it has on our society, especially from a biblical perspective.
1) Economic success: The recently concluded Carnival generated an impressive $5 billion in revenue, drawing thousands of revellers to our streets. The Ministry of Tourism celebrates this achievement, emphasising the economic benefits to hotels, airlines, and other sectors. However, as stewards of our nation, we must also consider the spiritual and moral implications.
2) Biblical view on modesty: The Bible consistently emphasises modesty and reverence for our bodies. Let us reflect on a few passages:
*Genesis 3:21: After Adam and Eve sinned, God made garments of skin to cover their nakedness. This act symbolised the need for modesty and the acknowledgement that our bodies are sacred.
*1 Corinthians 6:19-20: “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honour God with your bodies.” Our bodies are vessels for the divine, deserving of respect and purity.
*1 Timothy 2:9-10: “I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God.” Modesty in attire reflects our devotion to God.
3) Setting examples for our youth: Proverbs 22:6 reminds us, “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Our actions shape the values of the next generation. What legacy are we leaving? Are we nurturing a positive and Godfearing nation?
4) Piles of garbage and moral decay: As the carnival concludes, we are left not only with economic gains but also a literal pile of garbage. More significantly, we face a metaphorical cesspool of immorality and denigration. Our young ladies parading half-naked have inadvertently become symbols of a nation torn between celebration and spiritual decay.
Let us reclaim our identity as a Christian nation. May we prioritise modesty, virtue, and godliness. As the carnival costumes are packed away, let our young women cover themselves with dignity and set examples worthy of emulation.
I implore our leaders, parents, and citizens to consider the long-lasting impact of our choices. May Jamaica be known not only for its economic prowess but also its reverence towards God and the sanctity of life.
Ryan Reddie Member of the clergy