What does Malachi 1:8 mean?
Apparently, the priests were sacrificing animals forbidden by the Law. Leviticus 22:22 explicitly says that blind animals are not to be offered. Neither are lame or diseased animals. Yet, these are the kinds of offerings being brought. The point being made is that the priests know what the correct sacrifices are. This section of Malachi is addressed to Israel's spiritual leaders, who are being both lazy and disrespectful in their duties.Making the point even more clear is the reference to politicians. If a human leader would reject these animals as unfit gifts, how can the priests think God would find them worthy? This again speaks to the level of disrespect being shown. To give God what other people wouldn't want, instead of what He deserves, is a clear sign of contempt.
Interestingly, the word translated "governor" here is not a Hebrew term. Rather, it is Persian: pechah. This is a Babylonian term, representing the nation Israel was still subject to. This means Israel is bringing sacrifices to their God which are less worthy than those brought to their oppressors!
Applying this to modern life suggests the question of priorities. Are we giving God the best, or just what's left? Would God consider our efforts for Him worthy, or are we bringing something that even other people would find sub-par?