When Love Rewrites the Story: Capturing the Miracle of Jesus Writing in the Dust

It Is Written in Oil on Canvas | 24" x 20"

Among all the paintings in my Miracle Series this year, this one was the most challenging. The story of Jesus writing in the dust kept returning to me during prayer and meditation. No matter how I tried to move forward in the studio, this scene wouldn’t leave my mind.

As I wrestled with what to paint, I began to ask: what is the miracle in this story?

The Story Behind the Painting

We are familiar with the account in John 8:1–11, where Jesus is teaching at the temple and the religious leaders bring before Him a woman caught in adultery. According to the law of Moses, she should be stoned. Yet, instead of responding immediately, Jesus bends down and begins to write in the dust with His finger (John 8:6).

When pressed, He finally speaks: “Let anyone among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” One by one, her accusers leave, convicted by their own conscience.

The miracle is subtle yet profound. God, who once wrote the law on stone, now writes in dust. And in this simple act, the mercy, love, and grace of Jesus are revealed—free from condemnation.

The Light Shines Through Darkness

Immediately following this encounter, Jesus declares one of His great "I am" statements: “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). I imagine the transformation in the woman’s life that day—the darkness of shame replaced by the light of mercy.

This painting seeks to capture that moment: when love rewrote the story, and light shone into the darkness. Through brushstrokes and color, I wanted to convey the quiet miracle happening in that dust-filled temple, the divine light breaking through human judgment.

Why This Story Still Resonates

This story is a reminder that God’s mercy is accessible to all. It challenges us to look inward, examine our own hearts, and extend grace to others. In an age where judgment is quick and condemnation is common, the message of this painting—and the story it portrays—is more relevant than ever.

As Christians, we are called to follow the example of Christ, to be conduits of His light, mercy, and love. I hope this painting serves as an invitation to pause, reflect, and let the light of Christ illuminate even the darkest moments in our lives.