To Tat or Not to Tat, That is Not the Question

We are having family discussions about tattoos. Some in our tribe want some sort of "artwork" and some are reluctant. The reasons given are different. For some the reasons are to honor someone or something. For some, it is the "art." For some the cool newness of moving the line in the sand may be the reason. What ever the reason, you might imagine the amusing conversations that have taken place between everyone involved. The discussions themselves give a peek into the minds of some smart cookies and that is pleasure for me by itself.

In the middle of these talks and afterwards I have many thoughts somewhat related. Yesterday Maureen and I were talking about another blogger's post about Christian Music. Last night at a baseball game I saw a cross tattoo that gave a new direction in my tattoo thoughts. If a "tramp stamp" is a cross/crucifix, does it negate the trampiness? What if it sprouts out of cleavage? What are these artful expressions really about now? God? Tattoos? Art? Keeping up with Slim Shady?

I have to admit I haven't studied the Bible much for answers regarding tattoos. I know there are some Old Testament admonishments regarding some activities. I know some things were prohibited for various reasons. I also know I will be doing some studying soon about this. But my semi-original questions about "Christian" tattoo art bring me back to the bigger question--Why? Or better, Why should I not? Why should I not have a cross or Tree/Vine of Life or favorite verse permanently marked on my body, even if only a few people see it? Even if I am the only one to see it each morning when I wake up? These thoughts lead me to the core of what a Christian is or should be. Different than the World. At this point, if I can prove that my tattoo doesn't make me like or of the world, then I can't see a reason at this time that should prevent me from getting a tattoo.

But is that the point? And in what other ways am I like the world? What music do I listen to? How do I treat strangers? How do I treat co-workers? How do I treat the members of my own congregation? Have I shown them grace and mercy just as Christ showed me? Or have I acted like the world, and dealt with them as the world deals with me? If I can't answer those correctly, a tattoo seems trivial.