What Color Was Jesus?

When he carved The Pieta, Michelangelo used two models from the Jewish Quarter of Rome. Why? Because Jesus was Jewish. He might have been ruddy like His ancestor David, or He might have had olive or bronze skin and dark hair and eyes like the modern inhabitants of Palestine.

Michelangelo carved his statue from the purest white Carrera marble as befitted his homage to the Son of God. Depending on how the light strikes the statue, it can take on different colors. In some photos I have seen, the statue appears golden. In others, it takes on a greenish cast.

What color was Jesus?

When they nailed Him to the cross He was black and blue and bloodied all over. In the instant of Resurrection He was a blinding flash of white light strong enough to burn His image into a shroud.

If the most urgent question you have about Jesus is what color He was — you have missed the meaning of His life.

Why did Jesus walk among us?

He loves us and wants a relationship with us. He loved us so much He died for us. For all of us. Like Martin Luther King Jr., He cares more about our character than the color of our skin.

The Bible says He loved the innocent and encouraged little ones to come to Him.

If a little black child feels encouraged by a black Jesus, if an Asian child relates better to a Jesus that looks like her — will Jesus object?

What color is Jesus? Does it matter? Does it change His love for you? Should it change your love for Him? Imagine Him however you like. He will welcome you with open arms.

—

This post was previously published on Medium.

***

You Might Also Like These From The Good Men Project

Compliments Men Want to Hear More Often

Relationships Aren’t Easy, But They’re Worth It

The One Thing Men Want More Than Sex

..A Man’s Kiss Tells You Everything