Joining millions of Latter-day Saints around the world, the MOA is supporting the Come, Follow Me program by sharing artworks from our collection and visiting exhibitions to accompany each chapter of Come, Follow Me. Below you'll selections for this month alongside commentary and questions written by members of the MOA team. We hope that art-lovers everywhere will be inspired by these artworks as they complement their gospel study, family discussions, and church classes with fine art from around the world.
September 25 - October 1
As Paul addresses the Galatians, he invites them to become free of the burdens of the world and to seek to obtain spiritual freedom through its only source: Jesus Christ. We can learn much from his descriptions of the differences between the works of the flesh and the fruits of the Spirit. Where the world provides temporary satisfactions, the lasting effects of the Spirit can bless our lives each day.
Consider the meaning of the dove and what it represents in McRay Magleby’s “Peace Wave.” Peace can come in both fleeting moments of hope and as an all-encompassing wave. Paul encourages us to seek the presence of peace, as well as other fruits of the Spirit, in our lives.
What are some other fruits of the Spirit not listed in Galatians?
October 2-8
In the midst of an already turbulent religious environment in Ephesus, Paul’s epistles encouraged followers to rise above the world and strive to live in a higher manner. Putting on the armor of God empowers us to overcome conflict and temptation.
Reflecting on this image of Saint Michael the Archangel, examine each protective piece of armor named by Paul. Saint Michael stands triumphantly, cloaked in armor from head to toe. His outlook is one of confidence and fearlessness. The power that comes from this spiritual armor of God is needed today more than ever in our busy and tumultuous lives. As you strive to put on the armor of God, remember the teachings of Michelle D. Craig: “Being more does not necessarily equate to doing more.” We can obtain this protection in short and simple ways in our daily lives.
What does it look like to put on the armor of God?
October 9-15
Discipleship requires sacrifice, and this painting entitled “Altar at Giverny” reminds us that we lay down our individual sacrifices in the manner that our great exemplar, Jesus Christ, laid down His life for us. Because of this sacred sacrifice, we receive many blessings, including the ability to feel joy, regardless of our circumstances.
Picture yourself in this chapel and imagine what feelings are evoked by the radiating beams of light, soft hymns, and stillness of the holy place. Philippians 4:4 teaches, “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.” In our heartfelt sacrifices and difficult challenges, we can still have pure joy because of our Redeemer.
What experiences and feelings come to mind as you picture yourself in this chapel?
October 16-22
Disciples maintained Jesus Christ’s legacy of selfless service as they preached His gospel, and invited new converts to share the burdens of their neighbors. In 1 Thessalonians 1 verses 5-8, Paul remarks that “Our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost.” Ours is a faith of action and we exemplify that faith as we give of our time and resources to lift others.
In this image of John and Mary, we can see a literal representation of shouldering the trials of others. Service takes on a variety of appearances in our modern lives, but as we serve, we are sharing the gospel. The words we speak, the actions we take, and our prayers on behalf of others all stand as faithful acts of service that bless those around us.
What is one way in which you feel prompted to shoulder the trial of another this week?
October 23-29
Esther is regarded for her faith and courage in standing up for what is right. In this depiction, we can see her confidence and conviction in the gospel that enabled her to face her inner conflict and anxiety. Compared to those around her, she maintains a simpler style of dress and grooming, allowing her character to define her. As we reflect on Minerva Teichert’s portrait of Esther, we can ponder upon the bravery of the early saints to whom Paul wrote. Just as Old Testament forebearers stood up for their faith, Timothy, Titus, and Philemon held important positions of authority within their congregations and acted as examples to those around them.
Whether anciently or in modern times, as disciples of Jesus Christ, we hold the important responsibility of living lives reflective of His gospel. For Esther, that meant putting her life in danger for the opportunity to save her people. Being public disciples of our Savior requires a great deal of courage in today’s world, just as it did then. Fortunately, we know that “God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7). Standing up for what you believe can be difficult and discouraging, but when we turn to the root of our faith, Jesus Christ, we can be empowered with the courage we need.
Who is an example of courage in your life? How can you strive to emulate their example?
