First off, I consider myself a Christian. I have accepted Christ as my savior and pray for my salvation daily. However, I don’t go around imposing my beliefs on others, nor do I consider myself better than any Christian or non-Christian.

I do have to say, though, that I found Mr. Wong’s comparisons of tattoos and Christians ignorant, irrational and ridiculous!

Mr. Wong says, “A man should not get a tattoo, and if he has one, he can’t be considered a true Christian.” As I read this statement, I can’t help but develop a sense of rage within me. However, I must chuckle because I remind myself that Christ is the supreme authority over all, and it is he, not Mr. Wong, who is the judge of all people.

Not only do I have three symbolic, meaningful tattoos expressing myself and my beliefs, I know MANY Christians, including pastors and members of Christian rock groups, who consider their body a temple and express their own beliefs by the same art form, glorifying God and his meaning in their lives.

Heck, my own father is a tattoo artist as well as a devoted Christian minister who spreads the Lord’s gospel to individuals who have never had the privilege of hearing God’s words. Even Mormons, a very conservative Christian sect who view the body as a holy temple, accept the tattooed and pierced and don’t punish those who symbolize art on their bodies.

If having a tattoo doesn’t make you a Christian, I hate to hear Mr. Wong’s ideas on other worldly, sinful acts he would consider non-Christian-like.

I sure hope that all those non-tattooed Christians out there have kept the sabbath holy EVERY Sunday of their lives, have NEVER disobeyed their parents, have NEVER disliked someone and have NEVER lusted after someone or some object. This would be disobeying God’s commandments, so I guess if you have sinned, you must not be a Christian, huh? Wrong.

Even if you truly consider tattoos wrong and sinful, you can seek redemption for the Lord and ask for forgiveness for the art on your body.

God is forgiving, and he will grant redemption to those who seek it.

As for the other tattooed Christians out there, don’t be swayed by Mr. Wong’s words. I am not some “holier than thou” Bible pounder — I am a sinner, and I am a Christian. No, I can’t support my beliefs with any scripture references, nor can I provide you with any concrete evidence as to whether tattoos are right or wrong.

I can, however, stand up for those who believe salvation comes from within and not from someone who chooses to point fingers and dictate who isn’t a Christian. Maybe, Mr. Wong, you should consider the direction of your own salvation before you go spouting off the guidelines to Christianity.

Jessica Bruggeman

Sophomore

Political Science