The Three Theological Virtues

The three theological virtues—faith, hope and charity (or love)—are like threads that anchor us to our eternal destination, guiding us through life’s tempestuous journey towards God.
 
In this painting, faith, hope and love are symbolised by threads of white, green and red, inspired by St. John of the Cross in his work “Dark Night of the Soul,” where he portrays a soul touched by Christ adorned in garments of white, green and red, representing each of these virtues. The stormy grey background symbolises life’s storms and challenges. The bright sphere on the right represents heaven, radiant with the light of God, accentuated with hints of red from charity.
 
In my spiritual journey, I have found these virtues to be constant companions, guiding me through peaks and valleys. Therefore, I have chosen to depict these threads not as straight lines, but as undulating curves with jagged parts, reflecting the spiritual undulations and dryness of life.
 
Love, considered the greatest among the three, transcends mere journey’s end. While faith and hope propel us forward, their purpose fulfilled upon arrival, love conforms us to God, making heaven our home. Originating from Him who is Love, charity often feels estranged, misplaced, and counterintuitive in the world we live in. It is only upon reunion with God that it finds its true home and remains there, radiating its most brilliant colour.