At Manara Youth Center’s second art exhibition on March 20, young artists used their canvases to embody a powerful truth: faith remains unshaken even as the world shifts around us. Their inspiration? Youth for Christ’s long-standing motto: “Geared to the Times, Anchored to the Rock.”
This motto has defined YFC since its beginnings in the US in 1946 and later in Lebanon in 1963, reflecting the organization’s commitment to adapting its outreach methods to remain relevant to contemporary culture—meeting youth where they are—without compromising the message of the Gospel. Inspired by these words, the young artists poured their creativity into artwork that conveyed profound spiritual messages.
Rana, a youth worker and art exhibition planner at MYC, shared: “We are ready for everything time—and the future—throws at us because we have a firm foundation, the Rock on which we stand.”
For over two years, MYC has been offering drawing classes to youth under the guidance of a proficient art teacher. Slowly but surely, the students have been honing their talents, and this exhibition stands as a testament to their growth. This year, however, they had to prepare amid a raging war in Lebanon. While the conflict weighed on their morale, art became both an escape and an expression of resilience, allowing them to channel their emotions onto the canvas.
Among the young artists, 16-year-old Selena found inspiration in her faith. As she prepared her piece, she prayed for guidance, and two Bible passages came to mind: Isaiah 43:2 and Psalm 18:6.
“I like to show my faith through my paintings. I had to pray to Jesus to guide me with this one, and two Bible studies came to mind: Isaiah 43:2 and Psalm 18:6. So my message is: When the waves rise and years take hold, remember, there’s always a hand–an anchor–reaching out to save you. As Peter was lifted from the waters, faith will keep you from sinking. No storm is too great nor sea too deep for the One who rescues. So, trust, reach out, and be saved.”
For Selena, painting was more than an artistic pursuit—it was a journey of discovering her God-given talent.
“Everyone at Manara Youth Center has given me so much confidence. I didn’t know how to paint at first. I didn’t know that I had this gift from God. So you always have to try. You’ll fail. But that will only help you get better.”
Through strokes of color and words of truth, these young artists proved that while times may change, the foundation they stand on remains firm. Geared to the times, anchored to the Rock—this is more than a motto. It’s a way of living, creating, and believing.
