Malachi of Ephraim
Samaritan, he comes on a delegation from Ephraim to offer hospitality to a pursued Jesus:
- "That is why we say to You: it would be better for You to stay with us. The Temple hates You and tries to grieve You. And not only the Temple: You will always be too long among those who reject You as a disgrace. No love will come to You from the Jews." - "I cannot stay here. But I will remember your words. In the meantime I tell you to persevere in the observance of the laws of justice which you have recalled, and which ensue from the precept of love of our neighbour. The precept, which with that of the love of God, forms the main commandment of the old Religion and of Mine. The path to Heaven is not far from those who live righteously. One step only will take onto the way to the Kingdom of God those who are on the nearby path and who are separated only by obstinacy, by now, rather than by conviction."[1]
At Jesus' departure, Malachi is entrusted with two large sums: one to secure the future of Mary of Jacob, Jesus' hostess, and the other so that the inhabitants can celebrate worthily, at Passover, "the new time."[2]
Apostolic journey
Favorable to Jesus, in whom he recognizes a prophet, he blesses him with blessings:
"May You be blessed, Master and Lord, as You have remembered our hearts and our words, and You have come to rest among us."[3]
His name
Malachi means "My messenger" - Historical reference: the last of the twelve prophets.