Now, let me give a disclaimer. What I write is just my thoughts and experiences. No one else’s. Don’t judge anyone for what I might say – it’s me and me alone. But the first thing that I want to write about, is a statement that someone made to me the other day at work. There was a newspaper article about me, and my picture was in the paper. In the article, it was mentioned that I was a member of Lifepoint Church. So here is how the dialogue went…..
“I saw your article in the newspaper…. I am so happy for you… you all looked so nice…And I never knew you were a Christian – you don’t look like one!” – said random work lady that I don’t know.
“Wow. Thanks so much! I do appreciate it – and yes, I am a Christian. But, I am curious – what do you think a Christian looks like?” – said me.
Now, that stunned her – and that wasn’t my intent. It really wasn’t - I was absolutely curious. And I am not gonna lie – it kinda made me mad. What was she saying about the way I look? But as she spoke, I had an awakening. And it saddened me. And as I thought about it the past few weeks, I have had a few revelations. First of all, I will give you a little background. I was born and raised a Southern Baptist. Growing up, when you went to church, ladies wore dresses, pantyhose, purses, etc. You got really dressed up to go. And do I think there is anything wrong with that? Absolutely not. Do I choose to do that? Absolutely not. My Sunday attire consists normally of a pair of jeans, great shoes, a Lifepoint t-shirt of some type, and a bunch of costume jewelry. And here is what I am saying first and foremost. In my heart of hearts, I do not believe that Jesus cares one iota what we wear to church – besides what our hearts are wearing. Simple as that. There is no amount of make-up, hairspray, clothing, that can cover-up what’s in our hearts.
Second, I have tattoos. Quite a few. And I love them. They all mean something to me. And I will probably get more. Who knows. But, apparently – this person didn’t think a Christian would have tattoos. Three of my tattoos are Christian based – giving glory to God. Do I wish they all were? Yes. But they aren’t. I chose to tattoo the outside of my body to where people can see what is on the inside too. Just by a glance – they know what I stand for. Now, am I saying that all Christians should get a tattoo? Absolutely not. It isn’t for everyone. All I am saying is that it’s something that I like for myself. That’s all.
So this is what I have learned – I never want anyone to be surprised by the fact that I am a Christian. I need to smile more, share more, speak more. Get the word out. Let the world know that I serve an amazing God that has brought me through more in my 35 years than I ever thought I would experience in my whole life. Be Loud and Be Proud. I am not ashamed – and I am thankful. And yes, I might look more like one of Pink’s friends… but I have the goal of being more like Jesus everyday. I know I will never succeed completely – but I will die trying. So here I am – a Rebel Saint. Outloud.
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