A message etched in ink
Posted by The Skyliner on September 16th, 2009Amy Skaggs
Staff Writer
Ever since I turned 18, I have been interested in getting a tattoo. I knew that I wanted it to represent my love for Jesus, so I did some research. This led me to multiple Web sites that provided some seemingly sound explanations as to why Christians should not get tattoos. Why do some Christians believe tattoos are evil and some believe they are harmless?
In my opinion, tattoos are certainly not evil, and could even be used to spread the word of God, if used properly.
I decided that I would like a small Ichthus (Jesus fish) on my foot. This symbol is a method persecuted Christians developed to discover whether people they had just met were Christians or not without the risk of punishment.
I chose to put this symbol on my body because I want to show the people that I come into contact with that I am a believer. It also will serve as an important reminder to me that since I now will be publicly linked to Him, I must act and serve in a way that will bring others closer to Him.
While on a mission trip in Juarez, Mexico two years ago, my group had the opportunity to witness to people in a town square. My youth minister was wearing a short sleeve shirt with a tattoo of a cross proudly showing on his inner arm. This caused a middle-aged Mexican man to approach him, pointing to his tattoo and showing off his own. This opened a door for communication as my minister explained the cross to the man and the life-saving significance. It opened a door for him that he might not have otherwise approached.
These Web sites I spoke about before used some Bible verses to claim God condemns tattoos. After praying over these verses and really considering the Web site’s interpretation, I could not get past my own. For example, Leviticus 19:28 says “Do not cut your bodies or put tattoo marks upon yourself for the dead, for I am the Lord.” In context, this verse is talking about using tattoos with pagan practices, which of course would in no way glorify the Lord. However, with my tattoo, I am not getting it to glorify the dead. My God is very much alive.
None of this is to say that everyone should go out and get a tattoo. They are most certainly not for everyone, and the message that they project to someone who might not ask for an explanation must be considered with great weight before deciding on a design. As with everything one does, it is important to think of what it might mean to someone who simply passes you in the mall, and it must be done in a manner that will be respectful of those who do not agree with your decisions.
Tags: Fall 2009, Vol. 109 - Issue 2