Hesed Wins

A Story of Faith and Tattoos

Imagine this: a 64-year-old man on a trip to Israel, surrounded by the echoes of history and faith. The group talks about a legendary tattoo parlor, Razzouks, a family business since the 1300s! The idea sparks something within him.

At this point in his life, he'd always scoffed at tattoos as "permanent bell bottoms." But the profound experience of walking where Jesus walked, and the heartfelt devotions from his spiritual leaders, stirred a deep emotion. He craved a permanent reminder of God's enduring love.

The family group chat, a lively group of nine, erupted with excitement when he mentioned the tattoo. Suggestions flew, some serious, some lighthearted. Everyone, except his 90-year-old mother (who can blame her?), encouraged him to go for it.

The decision was made, but the design remained a question. He needed something he could live with, something meaningful. On a bus ride to the Jordan River, inspiration struck during a conversation with his friend David. David suggested "Hesed," the Hebrew word for God's unfailing love.

This resonated deeply. Throughout his life, his family motto had been "Love Wins." But Hesed Wins? That captured his belief perfectly. No matter the storms of life, Jesus' enduring love meant he always "won" in the end.

Well, this is a true story—about me.. Tracy Howe, "Hesed Wins” tattoo has become a conversation starter. People ask about it, and I share the powerful meaning behind it: “God's unfailing love that transcends hardships and offers hope”. It's a tool to spread my faith and delve deeper into the concept of Hesed.

Hesed, as Bible scholar Darrell L. Brock explains, encompasses all of God's positive attributes – love, loyalty, mercy, and more. It's not just a feeling, but a call to action: to show love and devotion to God and our neighbors.

"God's love is like the ocean; you can see the beginning, but not the end," says Pastor Rick Warren. Hesed is that dependable, unwavering love that empowers us to love others in the same way.

An "unthinkable tattoo," a conversation with a friend, and a powerful word have transformed his life. Hesed Wins is a constant reminder of God's unfailing love, a truth he carries with him every day.

The “Boots on the Street” mentality… is to go for it and get beyond your preconceptions about this or that…. “take flyer”... because you never know where a tattoo will take you!