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I had a conversation with a friend this week about tattoos. It got me thinking. She said…

“I really want to get a little cross on my wrist…but I don’t feel like I’m worthy of the cross right now.” 

Whoa, that’s an honest statement. It’s a beautiful statement. Man, if only I was able to say that every day. 

Statements like that unlock Christianity’s mightiest blessings. I’ll explain:

We Ain’t Got No Swag 

The reality that Jesus had to die on the cross is proof we ain’t got no swag. Every time we glance at the cross, all self-obsession, self-boasting, self-reliance, and self-confidence should deflate. Why? Because we put him there! Our sins held him there. So we lie low before the crucified King, never seeing ourselves above others. Or worthy of anything, really.

However, that’s often not the case with me, and my heart. “Should I get a tattoo of a cross? Psh, duh. I’m a pastor. And I have a Christian blog. And I, like, read the Bible today for an hour! I’m worthy of the cross. More than most people.” That is not the way to blessing, to closeness with Christ.

Who Is Jesus Nicest To?

But the moment you examine your own life and feel the weight of your failures – and when you glance at the cross and feel the weight of both your unworthiness and Jesus’ grace – that’s when Jesus becomes very dear to you. 

It’s only after you’ve stumbled into his presence with nothing but your disappointments, embarrassments, and total life-flops that you realize He is there for you. 

And always has been. Why? Well, Jesus is nicest, and most gentle, with those who are most sinful. Our sins move Jesus not to anger but to tenderness towards you.

When your heart not only agrees with this truth but embraces it, Jesus becomes precious to you. The gospel becomes good news. The cross is no longer folly, but pure white-hot glory. That’s when the blessings of Christianity in this life are unlocked.

Jesus loved you and gave himself for you (Galatians 2:20). Have you heard anything better than that today? 

So was my friend worthy of a little cross tattoo? Uh, no. But that’s why I explained to her that she should get it. What a great story to share to those who ask!

Copyright © 2019 by Justin Talbert@ https://getgroundedministries.com . Used with permission. No part of this article may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from Lifeword.org.