December 14-20: Malachi
"I Have Lord You, Saith the Lord"
Mark Graham (American, born 1952)
Nepal Reliquary (2018)
Mixed oil painting, collage, ceramic, and wood, 12 in. X 3 in. X 18 inches
Collection of the artist
Used with permission of the artist
In the book of Malachi the prophet Malachi delivers God’s message to a people who have grown spiritually careless and indifferent. God confronts the priests for offering improper sacrifices and failing to honor Him with sincerity. The Lord challenges the peoples unfaithfulness in relationships, injustice, and withholding tithes. The Lord patiently corrects those that doubt his love and fairness. The book concludes with a promise of a coming messenger and a future day when justice will be restored.
A central theme is spiritual apathy, highlighting the danger of going through the motions without genuine commitment. Another is integrity. Especially in worship, relationships, and daily actions. The book also emphasizes accountability, reminding people that their choices matter and are seen. Finally, it points to hope and renewal, promising that God will bring justice and restoration. Mark Graham is an award-winning artist, scholar, and professor. He has visited ancient societies of Nepal, India, and China repeatedly. In his mixed media work, Nepal Reliquary, Graham is making a latter-day shrine that invokes distant and ancient cultures. How does this piece relate to the book Malachi, and to the relevance of its teachings today?
Gospel Questions
1. How would increasing your generosity change your life?
2. How can you identify when you are becoming complacent in your faith?
3. In what ways is your faith just going through the motions?
For Children and Youth
Hi. God told the people to do what is right with their whole hearts. The Lord promised that He will make everything fair and good again.
1. When has being grateful helped you in a difficult time?
More from the Art Companion
