Alleluia

If it must be a part of me
(like a mole, a mark, or scar)
it better have some meaning.
After too much consideration
it's there
and it's permanent,
and it's an homage to the One
who gives abundantly all of these things:
gentleness and goodness and self control
and peace and hope and joy
and love and kindness and patience!
It's an exclamation of appreciation.
"Alleluia" it says.
He is crowned and at the Right Hand of the Father, it reminds me.
That ancient fish lodged in the post of a rugged cross
shows every man who we are.
We are called, equipped, adopted and elected.
We are His, and He IS Risen.
Was it necessary that His grace should extend to me like this?
Was I ever entitled to His mercy?
No.
Was it necessary for me to get a tattoo as a reminder of His great love?
No. However, He is glorified. He is praised.
And I say again, "Alleluia".
That will be my mantra for years to come
and it will echo into eternity when I join the angels
in singing:
"Holy Holy Holy is the Lord God Almighty
Who was and is and is to Come"