Imagine a huge, cosmic press conference. At the center podium stands the Creator of the Universe. What would God say about the state of humanity? What questions would people shout out from the crowd?

This is exactly the kind of dialogue that Malachi allows us to witness as God speaks directly to the nation of Israel. While the conversation took place over 2,400 years ago, the issues God addresses are as relevant today as they were then.

In this final book of the Old Testament, God’s people are doubting his love, questioning his goodness, and making excuses for their failures. But God always gets the last word and while he does challenge and indict them, it’s ultimately a message of loving reassurance.