It happened just the other day. My car broke down, and as I waited for the tow truck, a large, imposing figure approached. Honestly, my first instinct was a flicker of apprehension. He was easily twice my size. But then, something caught my eye – a tattoo on his forearm. It was a crown of thorns interwoven with the ichthys, the Christian fish symbol, and beneath it, the unmistakable words: “John 3:16”. In an instant, my apprehension vanished. This wasn’t just a stranger; this was a brother in Christ.
We started talking, and I couldn’t help but compliment his tattoo. He smiled, explaining it was more than just body art; it was a powerful tool for evangelism.
“You wouldn’t believe the situations I find myself in, towing cars,” he chuckled, a deep drawl in his voice. “Sometimes, these aren’t church-going folks, and things aren’t exactly going their way, you know? Being stuck on the side of the road is often the least of their worries. But this,” he gestured to his tattoo, “this opens doors. It starts conversations. We might be talking about their car trouble, but somehow, we end up talking about Jesus, especially when life feels like it’s falling apart.”
Days later, I’m still reflecting on that encounter. It struck me how easily I initially misjudged someone based on appearance. More importantly, it highlighted the incredible variety of ways we can share our faith, often in the most unexpected forms.
Jesus’s Great Commission in Matthew 28:19 (CEB) is clear: “Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Notice He doesn’t dictate how. Evangelism isn’t confined to pulpits or pamphlets. Of course, there are those called to preach, teach Sunday school, lead youth groups, or write and speak about faith – roles that are vital.
But sharing the Gospel can also be profoundly silent. It’s in the way we live, the symbols we choose to display, and the messages we carry with us, sometimes literally on our skin.
Think about it: the person wearing a “Jesus Saves” baseball cap volunteering at the local soup kitchen. The woman in the “I Run on Jesus and Coffee” shirt who lets you cut in line at the grocery store. The car with a Christian bumper sticker whose driver pays for your coffee in the drive-thru. Or, yes, the tow truck driver with a John 3:16 tattoo.
These are all visual representations of faith, silent sermons in a noisy world. They are seeds planted, conversations waiting to happen. The key is to be ready. When an opportunity arises – sparked by a tattoo, a t-shirt, or simply a moment of connection – we need to be prepared to share the Good News within us. It might be a brief word or an extended conversation, but in that moment, we offer someone the chance to experience the same blessings we have found.
So, go forth, friends, and spread the Gospel in your unique way, whether it’s with a bold John 3:16 tattoo, a quiet act of kindness, or any other expression of your faith. May God guide you as you share His love with all nations.
