Ouch, That Hurts!

Yesterday I read an interesting article about a growing business in the U.S. It seems that an increasing number of people who have been tattooed in the past are now having second thoughts and want the tattoo removed. It seems that for many, yesterday's ink has become today's regret. To remove a tattoo comes at a very high cost in both dollars and pain. Dermatologists first numb the skin and then utilize special lasers that pulverize the ink pigments into tiny particles, which then get absorbed by the body. This process can be so painful that one dermatologist said of the process, "When I say 'painful,' you can't believe it. I've had Marines pass out unconscious. It's a killer." And if you are really serious about getting rid of that ink Rembrandt, then start saving. Professional tattoos require six to 10 (and sometimes more) laser treatments to remove. Each session can cost anywhere from $250 to $500! Any way you want to cut it, tattoo removal hurts - both body and bank account!

This is a good reminder that what we do today impacts tomorrow. You get a tattoo today - you will have it tomorrow and next week and next year - unless, of course, you want to go through the physical and financial pain of getting it removed! So the words we speak and the decisions we make today will have consequences tomorrow. The Apostle Paul understood this when he wrote,

"Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. 9Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers." (Galatians 6:7-10)

As you go through your day remember that every single choice you make today has an "afterwards." So let's strive to sow to please God. You certainly can't turn the clock back to undo the things of the past (although I am sure all of us wish we could do so!) - but we can get intentional about making godly choices today. So let's get at it!

Thanks for stopping by ...

pj