Max Lucado, a renowned pastor and bestselling Christian author, celebrated his 70th birthday by getting his first tattoo, inscribed with the words “It Is Finished.”
The phrase, drawn from Jesus’ final words on the cross in John 19:30, holds deep spiritual significance for Lucado, symbolizing the completion of Christ’s redemptive work.
According to the Christian Post, the decision came after years of reflection. Lucado, initially hesitant due to cultural stigmas around tattoos in Christian communities, was inspired by his daughter’s tattoo and his wife’s playful suggestion to mark the milestone birthday with ink.
After discussing it with his family and praying for guidance, he chose a design that would serve as a permanent reminder of his faith.
The tattoo, etched on his right forearm, was done at a parlor in San Antonio, Texas, where Lucado serves as a teaching pastor at Oak Hills Church.
“This was the message that changed my life. I was a 20-year old scoundrel, a bum, a train off the tracks. My priority was six-packs; not the kind that come from crunches, but from Coors.
Friends, I was a mess. Not only was I drunk, I was a racist, a misogynist, a brawler, and a schemer. Worst of all, I was a hypocrite. I wondered, honestly wondered, could Christ forgive a jerk like me?”
“On the cross Christ paid my debt. It is paid — paid in full,” he wrote. “I said ‘yes.’ That was 50 years ago. In the intervening half century, I have failed Jesus many times, but he has never failed me. To commemorate this anniversary, I got a tattoo. Tetelestai — It is finished.”
He described the experience as both nerve-wracking and meaningful, noting the artist’s care in capturing the phrase’s weight.
“It’s not just art—it’s a declaration,” Lucado shared in a blog post, emphasizing how the tattoo reflects his belief in the sufficiency of Christ’s sacrifice.
Lucado’s choice has sparked varied reactions. Some applaud his bold expression of faith, while others in conservative circles question the appropriateness of tattoos for clergy.
Addressing the debate, Lucado pointed to Leviticus 19:28, often cited against tattoos, arguing its context applies to ancient pagan rituals, not modern expressions of devotion. He hopes his tattoo will prompt conversations about grace and redemption.
