The Meaning

This “Mystery Cloud” piece is a metaphoric representation of what I have experienced inside me over many years. It is often a mystery to how God leads me through this world, and I never truly understand it, but sometimes I can see the effect of it manifesting around me and through me at times. It is partially inspired by Romans 11:33.

A Stirring

At the top is the pointing hand of God and it has an electric current coming out of the fingertips as it stirs up a mystery cloud below.

Blood Dripping

The Son is at the bottom with a crown of thorns causing His blood to drip down His forehead.

Heavenly Hosts

Up above the hand are some heavenly host ghosts in worship and awe of what He is doing and the sacrifice He is making.

Dove of Fire

Underneath Christ is a dove of fire (His Spirit) entering a lighted bright yellow building which represents the temple He is building (Ephesians 2:19-20).

Lightning Strikes

On the sides of the cloud are bolts of lightning striking demons to drive them out of His church and away from His presence. By trusting Him, I receive ongoing redemption from past fallen relationships (represented by the demons) which have wounded and bound me for years.

It is interesting how I have been influenced to use this scripture in another piece called, “Over My Head.” At the time, I was motivated to do another expression of how Christ builds His real Church because I’ve seen so many ministry leaders try take control of people seeking Him, in an apparent attempt to “help” Him build the church but, in the end, confusing and hurting people and leading them away from Him.

The Process

The black cloud was wiped with mineral spirits, rags, and stiff brushes to see the original color of the white primed canvas. Blue paint was blended over black in the background and the Son’s head and His heavenly host ghosts were painted in animated form at the very end.