Leap of Faith
This composition was inspired by a major, life-changing decision my wife and I faced during 2017-18. And while this painting is deeply autobiographical, I really tried to create something that is hopefully very relatable.
At one point or another we have all stood atop a terrifyingly tall precipice staring down into what appears to be only tragic outcomes. As the storm clouds circle, it seems impossible to imagine that our only alternative might be to jump. It is situations like this that not only engage our faith, but strengthen our resolve as we realize that the only real option is to trust that our Father will catch us.
But ultimately, whether you jump or not, the choice is yours. And rest assured, if you take that leap, it’s going to initially feel like madness. Complete reckless abandon. Many of those whose opinion you value will question your judgement and advise against such a drastic course of action.
But as most of you can likely attest, it is precisely in those moments that we begin to see the Father more clearly. Often, but not always, He will confirm His presence in such situations by revealing His hand at work. We suddenly recognize that He is in the storm, and realize that He has been all along. We start to understand that those dark and foreboding storm clouds swirling around us have been positioned in such a way that they will actually cushion our fall.
And once we break through the storm we suddenly see His blinding light once again. A beacon of hope reminding us that our “light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison.” We begin to understand that these troubles, and our endurance through them, were ultimately intended to glorify our Father in Heaven; just like the man in John 9 who was blind since birth.
It is precisely this kind of faith and endurance that leads to true spiritual growth. And the cliff upon which you stand could be any number of circumstances, each one equally frightening and full of uncertainty. But as you stand on the edge and peer down into the abyss, recognize there is a seed of hope planted in that situation that is just waiting to sprout. So pray. Take a deep breath. And jump.
The original 30"x40" acrylic painting is sold.
A Limited Edition of Fine Art Giclèe reproduction prints are available in three sizes:
30” x 40” (full size) - $365
24” x 32” - $235
18” x 24” - $160
12” x 16” - $95
9” x 12” - $70
At one point or another we have all stood atop a terrifyingly tall precipice staring down into what appears to be only tragic outcomes. As the storm clouds circle, it seems impossible to imagine that our only alternative might be to jump. It is situations like this that not only engage our faith, but strengthen our resolve as we realize that the only real option is to trust that our Father will catch us.
But ultimately, whether you jump or not, the choice is yours. And rest assured, if you take that leap, it’s going to initially feel like madness. Complete reckless abandon. Many of those whose opinion you value will question your judgement and advise against such a drastic course of action.
But as most of you can likely attest, it is precisely in those moments that we begin to see the Father more clearly. Often, but not always, He will confirm His presence in such situations by revealing His hand at work. We suddenly recognize that He is in the storm, and realize that He has been all along. We start to understand that those dark and foreboding storm clouds swirling around us have been positioned in such a way that they will actually cushion our fall.
And once we break through the storm we suddenly see His blinding light once again. A beacon of hope reminding us that our “light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison.” We begin to understand that these troubles, and our endurance through them, were ultimately intended to glorify our Father in Heaven; just like the man in John 9 who was blind since birth.
It is precisely this kind of faith and endurance that leads to true spiritual growth. And the cliff upon which you stand could be any number of circumstances, each one equally frightening and full of uncertainty. But as you stand on the edge and peer down into the abyss, recognize there is a seed of hope planted in that situation that is just waiting to sprout. So pray. Take a deep breath. And jump.
The original 30"x40" acrylic painting is sold.
A Limited Edition of Fine Art Giclèe reproduction prints are available in three sizes:
30” x 40” (full size) - $365
24” x 32” - $235
18” x 24” - $160
12” x 16” - $95
9” x 12” - $70