The next installment of the fiscal reform series that evaluates the successful implementation of value-added tax (VAT) by Singapore and New Zealand with a view to ascertaining if and what lessons The Bahamas can learn from their experiences as we voyage into unchartered territory had been drafted for subsequent publication.
However, in the midst of this debate, we must pause to recognize Holy Week - a week that is observed by Christians the world over in commemoration of the travails and ultimate triumph of Jesus Christ.
This week we shift focus to examine not the much debated fiscal reform or the popular topic of tax reform; rather we consider a different kind of reform. This reform is an essential reform that will probably not attract the level of public discourse or press time that political and economic issues attract within our country.
The triumphant entry
The four gospels of the New Testament of the Bible record the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem on a colt. The entrance into Jerusalem was preceded by specific order from Jesus to two of his disciples to go into the city and bring him a colt that was bound and had never been ridden before. The choice of animal is also symbolic in that the donkey is perceived in Eastern tradition as an animal of peace as opposed to a horse, that is often associated with war. It is no surprise therefore that the Prince of Peace would choose a colt (or a donkey) as his vessel of transportation.
The inexperienced vessel that was the colt was chosen for an assignment that it appeared not to have any qualifications for and was perhaps not trained to embark upon. This is more puzzling when one considers the magnitude of the assignment and stature of the rider.
Several messages abound in this aspect of the story but the hope it provides to the Bahamian youth in this dispensation is apparent. The next generation of Bahamians should continue their strive for excellence and maintain their hunger for knowledge; however, we must remember that greatness is in us and we must be ready to answer the call to serve.
The response Jesus recommended to his disciples if they were questioned is ever so relevant to the young people of our country: the Lord needs you. The recently celebrated Palm Sunday also offers the hope of freedom from bondage as the colt that was hitherto bound was released to be a part of history.
Challenging the status quo
The pageantry and celebration that accompanied Jesus' entrance into Jerusalem were eloquently described in the gospels. From the cloaks that were laid on the colt and the ground upon which He rode to the palm branches which symbolize victory, triumph and peace, our imaginations may never do justice to the re-enactment of the scenery in our minds.
In spite of the glamour of his advent into Jerusalem, the Bible records the clearing of the temple courts of those buying and selling there. This act was aimed at bringing order to the temple and reiterating the purpose the temple ought to serve.
Bahamian leaders and aspiring leaders, having been lauded by the populace and ushered into positions of power, must never be afraid to do that which is right, although some of their decisions may prove to be unpopular. Leadership must not be reduced to a popularity contest and it is high time that our leaders address matters based on convictions and more importantly doing the right things even at the risk of offending supporters.
The voyage of purpose
The agony of the cross was felt prior to Calvary at Gethsemane as the Messiah sought to avoid the cross only to yield to the will of His Father. It is interesting to note that in His moment of despair and hour of sorrow, he could not rely on his disciples to hold Him up in prayer.
Leaders must be prepared to stand alone in their darkest hour and face their biggest trials on their own in a lonely place. We the people must follow the biblical instruction to pray for our leaders and those that govern us for the prosperity of our country.
The inherent dichotomy of human nature is pronounced in the crucifixion story with the change in proclamations by the people. It is interesting to note that within just a few days, the chants of Hosanna would change to the shouts of "Crucify Him". In essence, those who had hailed Jesus as a hero would soon reject and abandon Him; some even demanding His execution over that of a serious criminal.
The betrayal of Judas and the denial by Peter are testaments to some of the struggles of leadership and relationships. The journey from judgement hall to judgement hall may have been prevented if Jesus' commitment to and faith in His assignment was not unflinching. These experiences paled in comparison to the punishment inflicted upon the Son of God and we should expect no less if we profess to be Christians as no servant is greater than his/her master.
As we transition from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday, the hope of resurrection must come alive within our Bahamaland, from Inagua in the south to Bimini in the north. In spite of the current challenges that confront us, hope ought to rise again in our hearts during this season that this too shall pass, the sun will shine again and roses will bloom again in this land.
The model reform
While various studies on tax reform in The Bahamas have been and are being conducted, this writer also recommends another study - the detailed study of the life of Jesus by leaders, aspiring leaders and the entire populace. All accounts confirm the reformist that He represented in the challenging of established doctrines and the status quo.
The pain and suffering that He bore were direct results of an unwavering commitment to His assignment. It is indeed a paradox that He was born to die; He fulfilled purpose by being tortured and subsequently going to Calvary to die a gruesome death. As followers of Christ commemorate His resurrection this week, in our personal lives we must rest assured that any perceived suffering of the present is nothing compared to the glory that will be revealed in us.
We need not look far to find individuals to which the clarion call is being made. For indeed the clarion call for the essential reform is being made to one and all.
The charge is made to this generation to be vessels in bringing about much needed reform to the social, cultural, religious and economic landscape of our commonwealth. In the words of the late Nelson Mandela, "...sometimes it falls upon a generation to be great, you (we) can be that great generation".
However, how can we change our communities and our nation if we do not begin by reforming ourselves and changing our thinking for the better? How can we say we love God when we do not love our brother, sister or neighbor, who we can see? The Bahamas will be a better place and will experience much prosperity if we are able to successfully implement this model reform. Happy Holy Week
o Arinthia S. Komolafe is an attorney-at-law. Comments on this article can be directed to a.s.komolafe510@gmail.com.
Click here to read more at The Nassau Guardian
