YOU ARE MY JOY
by Leslie Morley
Artist Statement
As the Great Creator, God takes absolute joy in each of us.
He sees us perfectly, and He loves us wholly.
Christ embraces our differences and celebrates the unique, unrepeatable divinity of each soul. Our mortal conditions do not diminish us; they shape the holy work of becoming.
In this painting, I wanted to reflect the pure joy Christ takes in this boy with Down syndrome—holding him close, seeing him fully, and delighting in who he is, both as a beloved child and as a divine being. The peace on the child’s face, resting cheek to cheek in his Creator’s arms, speaks of a love that conquers fear and crowns worth.
For in Christ, we see that our worth is not conferred by circumstance or condition, but woven by the Creator into the very fabric of our souls—forever held, forever whole.
THE STORY BEHIND THE PAINTING
One afternoon, I watched Eric—a six-year-old boy with Down syndrome—quickly befriend my one-year-old son, Teddy. Joy lit both of their faces as Eric encouraged the toddling Teddy up the stairs, then raced with him down the double slide, laughter spilling behind them.
When Teddy fell, Eric rushed to where he lay on the ground. He gently reached out and took Teddy’s hand. They stayed like this for sometime; sharing in the gentle moment. Then Eric tentatively tickled Teddy’s tummy, and sharing smiles, they were off again.
I found myself in tears. In that brief, beautiful exchange, I felt a sudden surge of love for this kind-hearted boy—and a glimpse of the Creator’s own love for the beauty and divinity within him.
And within each of us.
Original painting Details
- Price: $3,895
- Medium: Oil on canvas
- Size: 30 x 40 in
- Year: 2025
- Finish: Varnished for protection
- Certificate of Authenticity: Included
- Series: Belongs to the Love Incarnate Series, part of the larger body of work, Held and Known.
- Inventory: Only 1 original exists. If the painting is marked "sold out" the original has already been collected.
This original painting is currently available exclusively through The Compass Gallery.
To inquire or purchase, please contact The Compass Gallery at:
(801) 200-3981 / esther@thecompassgallery.com / https://www.thecompassgallery.com/
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