How Do You Color Jesus?

Little “Esther,” the daughter of an undocumented migrant worker in Beirut, Lebanon, is coloring in her picture of Jesus as she experiences His love. “Esther” attends one of two Philemon Project GROW Center preschools in Beirut. She and her mother are learning that Jesus, Lord of all the world, also knows each of them by name, even if society denies their rights and legal existence. 

Migrant workers face many challenges in Lebanon. Their papers are regularly taken from them by their employers, leaving them unable to access legal help, escape abusive situations, emigrate, or even return to their home countries. Their children, often the result of rape in the workplace, are also undocumented and thus not eligible for public school or benefits. The mothers cannot afford childcare, so once their babies are too active to carry on their backs, they may need to “tie them to a chair” or restrain them in some other way in order to work. 

The Christ-loving staff of two GROW centers – the second just recently opened – now serve 150 total children and their families with the two preschools, mentoring, crisis care, basic food aid, Christian teaching…and love. Little “Esther” and I agree that no matter what color your skin is or what color crayon is in your hand, Jesus is the color of love. 

Many of us, overwhelmed by such deep needs and aware of the limited resources, shy away; but we were encouraged and challenged by the GROW staff. They helped me color my own picture of Jesus with their faith that “overflows” the lines and celebrates all kinds of unexpected colors and gifts of grace. At GROW, each day is a little Christmas! 

Rev. Dr. Nancy Fox
Trustee
The Outreach Foundation