April 8-14: Jacob 5-7, The Lord Labors With Us

Elise Wehle (American, born 1986)

Sanctum 3 (2018)

handcut collage, 20 x 14 inches

Collection of the artist

artist’s website

Used with permission of the artist

The book of Jacob is replete with references to working in the Lord’s vineyard. The artist Elise Wehle’s work, Sanctum 3, depicts a landscape altered by handcut processes to create a hybrid image that elevates a landscape nearly to the realm of the sacred. Of this labor she writes, “My artwork revolves around the time-intensive act of cutting intricate patterns using a utility knife. My process transforms into an act of devotion as my hands perform the repetitive motions required by my art. Obstructing the seen with the unseen, these patterns intersect with imagery from nature and represent the spiritual experiences that occur in our physical environment, like visions deep within forests or high on mountaintops. Despite the patterns’ clearly defined edges, they are comprised of negative space and are ultimately invisible, like the experiences they represent.”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. What "repetitive motions," as described by Wehle, are part of your worship? Why is the repetition an important part of the enlightening process of following Jesus?

2. Jacob refers to our God who extends His arm of mercy "towards you in the light of the day" (Jacob 6:5). How do the ideas of mercy and light intersect? Cut from paper an image of a hand and tape it to a window where the light can reach through the image and remind you of God's love and compassion for you.

3. Because of his clever use of flattery and his power of speech, Sherem was able to "lead away many hearts of the people" from Christ (Jacob 7:1-4). Sometimes insecurity and doubt can allow us to be particularly vulnerable to flattery and clever words. When Sherem tried to use his skills on Jacob, "the Lord God poured in his Spirit into [Jacob's] soul." What can you include in your prayers today to help you discern and turn away from deceptive flattery and clever words?

QUESTIONS FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH

1.  This may be a good time where you live to plant seeds.  What can you learn about Jesus when you plant a seed, take care of it, and watch it grow?

2.  In the allegory of the tame and the wild olive trees, the "young and tender branches" were grafted into other trees to help them grow (Jacob 5:8-9).  How are you like a young and tender branch and what does this allegory teach you about your power for good?  How can you be "nourished by the good word of God" (Jacob 6:7)?

3.  Jacob said, "O be wise; what can I say more?" (Jacob 6:12).  What does it mean to be wise?  What can you do to exercise more wisdom in your choices?