Peace. We tend to equate this word with a lack of violence or a feeling of quiet. It’s a word that can be applied in our individual lives or to the world at large. The concern about Covid-19 has reduced our feelings of peace as our levels of stress have risen. Peace then, has been reduced in most of our lives recently.
Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you…” John14:27 (NASB)
If we follow this word “peace” back through history to the word that Jesus used we find that in Hebrew, the word is shalom. Shalom is an amazing word that encompasses far more than the simple ideas we hold of peace.
Shalom is used in reference to the well-being of others, to treaties among nations, in prayer for a range of needs from individuals to entire countries. It also includes the concepts of harmony, wholeness and completeness. Shalom was, and is, used as both a greeting and farewell.
When Jesus told his disciples that He gave them His shalom He was offering so much more than a quiet feeling or lack of violence. Jesus was giving them the wholeness and completeness of His relationship with God. He was giving us the opportunity to have this same relationship.
At 11:15 a.m. on Sunday Pastor Ann will be bringing God’s current message to us about Shalom. We will not be having our regular service but will livestream again this week due to the current situation with Covid-19.
Please note that the church will be open, so if you have no sniffles, coughing or fever you are welcome to join us in the sanctuary. PLEASE remain at home and join us on Facebook if you feel ill or have concerns of contagion. THANK YOU for continuing to learn and grow in God’s word during this time. His church will only grow stronger through this. Shalom!