September 22–28: D&C 106–108
“The Order of the Son of God”
James Michael Rees (American, 1963)
A support to Others (2023)
Monotype print, 11 x 15 inches
Used with permission of the artist
Artist’s website
Art Companion
James Rees’s painting A Support to Others shows a single house upholding many others stacked above it. About the work, James explains: “The work really highlights the need we have within our communities to support each other. Sometimes we’re in the role of being supported, but quite often we’re the one lifting others.”
Priesthood power is about serving and supporting others through God’s love. Just as the houses in the painting cannot stand without the strength of the one beneath, so too the body of Christ depends on each member lifting, sustaining, and blessing those around them. Sometimes, we're the house supporting others, and sometimes, we're the house receiving support. Exercising priesthood power means following the Savior’s example of support, service, and love — in our own households and beyond.
Gospel Questions
1. In describing the calling of Warren A. Cowdery to Church service, Jesus explains that "the laborer is worthy of his hire" (D&C 106:3). How can this instruction give you courage, confidence, and comfort in your callings, including as a parent, friend, spouse or fellow Saint?
2. Jesus explains that "every man (or woman) [should] learn his duty, and to act in the office in which he (or she) is appointed, in all diligence" (D&C 107:99). How have you found Church instruction helpful to you in learning your responsibilities in a calling?
3. Jesus describes the application of charity in that we should "strengthen your brethren (and sisters) in all your conversation, in all your prayers, in all your exhortations, and in all your doings" (D&C 108:7, emphasis added). How do each of these specific instructions apply in ministering to others?
His paintings are in nearly every meetinghouse and in many temples in the world.Walter Rane: A Life of Painting
The Center Studio Podcast S8E7
For Children & Youth
Hi. Does your house look like the ones in this print by James Rees? All of these houses look the same. But in real life, every house is different–just like the families that live in them. Our wards and branches are designed to help and serve everyone who lives in them. Maybe there is something you can do to serve someone who lives close to you.
Gospel Questions
1. Have you ever received a priesthood blessing? What were the circumstances and what happened? "How did it make you feel? Write about the experience in your journal or write a little book about it so that you can remember.
2. As you read about the First Presidency, the Twelve Apostles and the Seventy (D&C 107:22-26) as "special witnesses" of Jesus to "all the world," how does this make you feel about the upcoming General Conference? As you listen to General Conference, pay close attention to what these leaders teach about Jesus. Keep some notes about what you learn about Jesus.
3. Jesus promises that when we are "more careful" in "observing [our] vows" (promises or covenants) with God, we will be "blessed with exceeding great blessings" (D&C 108:3). What can you do to be more careful with the promises you have made with God (think about your baptismal covenants and the covenants you make in the sacrament, and other promises)? How have you seen God respond when you have kept your covenants?
More from the Art Companion:
