“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid. John 14:27 NLT
Have you heard people greet each other with Shalom? It is a word that roughly means peace, but that doesn't do it justice; it is much more than that. It expresses an encompassing wish for wellness within and without. It is the gift that Jesus meant in this scripture.
We have sholam with God. Through our faith in Jesus Christ, we are reconciled with God. We obtain access to serenity amid life's uncertainty and turmoil through the Holy Spirit.
We have sholam with our enemies and those who dislike us. In following the example of Jesus, we learn forgiveness. While this does not always guarantee it will mend fractured relationships, the overtures bring healing for ourselves.
We have sholam with our neighbors. Living out our faith by showing compassion, justice, and mercy are examples of light in the darkness. Amid the stress and anger prevalent in the world, we become the smiles and kind words demonstrating the shalom possible through Jesus.
We have sholam with ourselves. In forgiving others, we also learn to accept God's forgiveness. With the confidence of his pardon, we experience relief and tranquility.
Shalom can also be used in parting. A wish that we carry God's peace with us and experience shalom in all its meanings.
God, thank you for the shalom you give us through Jesus Christ. As your reconciled and forgiven children, help us exemplify this peace to others, and may we accept your forgiveness and experience shalom with ourselves. Amen.
Shalom,
Pastor Tim
