Dog Tags

I recently came across my old “Dog Tags” from my time in the Air Force. Dog tags are the means by which the military uses as an identification tool in both peacetime and conflict scenarios. Included on each tag is the name, social security number, blood type and religious affiliation and are issued to every new service member. When a soldier is killed in battle, the dog tag serves as the identifying means of the individual. But can those four lines on that stamped out piece of metal really tell someone who a person is?

My identification changed the day I became a follower of Jesus.

My new NAMES are chosen, loved, and forgiven. For my life became new upon salvation. John 1:12 But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.

My new social security NUMBER says I’m unique, created for a purpose and precious in God’s sight. Ephesians 2:10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

My new BLOOD Type is redeemed and wonderfully made. Ephesians 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses according to the riches of his grace. Psalm 139:13-14 For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.

My new RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION is being one with Christ. Galatians 3:28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.