People often ask me…

…which painting, of the ones I’ve created, is my favorite. This painting, the Lily, is definitely one I continue to treasure.

I created this work in Italy, while there 5 years ago now. It was born out of reading St Bernard’s sermons on the Song of Songs. His sermons are dripping with symphony symbology and a deeper understanding of the Song of Songs. What struck me profoundly was that he articulates Mary being the bride in the Song of Songs, which in turn represents us, the church as well. I also learned from St Bernard that lilies, which are mentioned in the Song of Songs, are symbolic for those who share in the resurrection. Hence the title of this work. In any case, the moment of the Annunciation, the moment Jesus entered Mary’s womb and she becomes mother, is also the moment she becomes full bride of our Lord, completely united to him. This is why this painting is set in a garden, it depicts the symbolic reference to entering into the woman’s very being. This is why I felt lead to portray Mary mostly in white here, showing that she is both bride and mother.

I treasure this work because it’s a reminder of who Mary has been graced to be, but it is also an invention into who we are all called to be. As man or woman, God wants to be completely united with us, that we too may ‘birth’ Christ into the world. In order to give Christ to others, we must first enter into communion with God the Father. We must first fall in love with our creator. We must first respond with a yes to his call, our own fiat. From there we are filled with the Holy Spirit and can give Christ to the world. Mary is such a beautiful example of how to do this well. Her life is truly an icon to meditate on and learn from.

Have you ever heard about this? If not, I highly recommend reading St Bernard’s sermons!