The icon symbolizes four significant healing miracles of Jesus that the Oratory MSSP is meditating on as part of this year’s catechesis. These events are central to understanding Jesus’ compassion and transformative power. They include: the healing of the woman suffering from chronic illness in Mark 5:25-34, the cleansing of the man afflicted with leprosy in Luke 5:12-14, the forgiveness and healing of the paralyzed man in Luke 5:17-26, and the restoration of sight to the man born blind in John 9:1-34. Each of these miracles invites deeper reflection on themes of faith, forgiveness, and renewal, serving as spiritual milestones for personal and communal growth throughout the year.

These four figures embody the healings that Jesus performs in our lives, each carrying profound spiritual lessons:

1. The sick woman: Often, we seek solutions in the wrong places, relying on inadequate sources for healing and hope. Yet, like the woman who touched Jesus’ cloak in faith and was healed, we are reminded that it only takes a simple, faith-filled action to encounter His transformative power. Her green garment symbolizes hope—a hope grounded in the revelation of Jesus’ power over all things, a hope in the resurrection (anastasis).
2. The man with leprosy: Leprosy isolated individuals from society, stripping them of dignity and connection—just as sin alienates us from God and others. Jesus’ willingness to touch and heal the leper reveals that He is unafraid to meet us in the depths of our brokenness and offer forgiveness and restoration.
3. The paralyzed man: As Christians, we are called to intercede for one another, much like the friends who carried the paralyzed man and lowered him before Jesus. This act of faith underscores the power of community in overcoming spiritual paralysis. Likewise, when we are immobilized by fear, doubt, or sin, we need the faith of others to bring us closer to Jesus.
4. The blind man: In many aspects of life, we are spiritually blind—unable to perceive truth, recognize our purpose, or see God’s work in our lives. Through Jesus, our spiritual sight is restored, enabling us to see with clarity and live in the light of His truth.

Each of these figures serves as a powerful reminder of how Jesus brings healing, hope, and renewal into the deepest parts of our lives, inviting us to greater faith and trust in Him.

Central to the icon is the figure of Jesus, depicted in a posture reminiscent of the Anastasis icon. He leans His head gently, embodying humility and compassion, unafraid to meet us in our most miserable and broken state. Beneath His feet are two crisscrossed doors, symbolizing the gates of Hades, which He has shattered through His Resurrection. This powerful imagery conveys Christ’s definitive victory over death, sin, and the grave, offering liberation and eternal life to humanity.

The lower part of the icon is enveloped in darkness, symbolizing human weaknesses, sins, and the shadowy depths of our struggles. It reminds us of the parts of our lives that yearn for healing and redemption.

In the background, a temple and a mountain are depicted, rich in symbolic meaning. These represent God’s dwelling among His people and the spiritual ascent we are called to undertake. Suspended between them is a red drape, symbolizing the Shekinah, the divine presence and glory of God. This imagery reminds us that God’s glory is not confined to the temple but pervades all creation. The Hebrew word for glory, kabod, carries the meaning of something weighty yet unseen—mirroring our hidden burdens and unnoticeable struggles. Despite their invisibility, God sees them and provides us with the grace and opportunities to be healed, if only we open our spiritual eyes to recognize His presence.

The inscription on the icon, “Il-fidi tiegħek fejqitek,” in Maltese, translates to “Your faith has healed you.” This statement invites us to reflect on the transformative power of faith in our lives. May this icon serve as a window into our souls, encouraging us to delve deeper into self-reflection and embrace the healing Christ offers. Through it, may we find strength, hope, and the courage to confront our spiritual sicknesses, trusting in God’s boundless mercy and grace.