Healing of the Paralytic — Through the Roof

Healing of the Paralytic — Through the Roof

Oil on canvas, 30" x 40" In my latest oil painting, “Healing of the Paralytic — Through the Roof” (30" x 40"), I wanted to explore the profound intersection of faith, friendship, and community as depicted in Mark 2:1-12. Rather than focusing on the miracle itself, I chose to capture the intimate moment of friends lowering the paralyzed man through the roof—his life literally in their hands.

The composition is intentionally tight, drawing attention to the strain in their arms and the ropes, the careful lowering of the bed, and the trust that binds them together. The only parts visible are the man’s feet and the hands of his friends, emphasizing their courage, determination, and unwavering faith. I used high-contrast lighting breaking through the darkness of the room to highlight this moment of divine intervention and human effort, symbolizing hope piercing through the struggles of life.

This painting is a reminder that faith is not meant to be lived in isolation. We are called to walk alongside one another, to lift each other up, and to carry one another in times of trial. Just as these friends brought their paralyzed companion to Jesus, we too are invited to lean on the faith and strength of those around us. Community, friendship, and shared faith are essential parts of the Christian journey, often allowing miracles to unfold in our lives when we least expect them.

Art has a unique way of capturing the spiritual truths of Scripture, inviting reflection and conversation. In this piece, I hope viewers are reminded that while God’s power brings healing, He often works through the hands, hearts, and faith of others around us.

Through the careful framing, the tension in the arms, and the dramatic light breaking into the darkness, “Healing of the Paralytic — Through the Roof” becomes not just a visual retelling of a Bible story, but a meditation on the faith-filled relationships that sustain us.