Introduction
In today’s tumultuous and uncertain society, the universal aspiration for peace has become a crucial focal point. Experience has taught us that, irrespective of our social standing, remarkable achievements, or valuable contributions, our sense of security hinges on peace. The world’s concept of peace appears transient and inadequate, lacking lasting appeal. By contrast, the enduring and all-encompassing peace offered by God stands out as an extraordinary and unmatched force in its essence and purpose.
Shalom
The well-known Jewish greeting “Shalom” carries the heartfelt message of “peace unto you,” whether expressed as “Shalom Aleichem” or “Aleichem Shalom,” both meaning “unto you be peace.” “Shalom” derives from the root word “shalam,” which encompasses the safety of one’s mind, body, and possessions. It signifies a profound sense of inner wholeness, completeness, and fullness. In Jewish culture, the blessing of peace is paramount, evoking its frequent use.
The Bible extensively explores the concept of peace throughout its sacred texts. The Apostle Paul, for instance, invoked blessings of peace for the Thessalonians, saying, “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way” (2 Thessalonians 3:16), accentuating the Godly peace.
Each week, Jewish tradition encourages individuals to greet each other with “Shabbat Shalom,” a wish to end the week with rest that brings inner peace, refocusing on the One who provides it. It also extends the wish for the following week to commence with a sense of inner rest and completeness, where nothing is lacking. This encapsulates the essence of the Jewish Shabbat, rooted in Biblical peace.
The renowned Aaronic blessing, the Priestly blessing, served as a proclamation of peace upon the sons of Israel. God instructed Aaron to bless the Israelites as they prepared to enter the Promised Land, saying, “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace” (Numbers 6:23-26). This blessing symbolized God’s protection, companionship, and promise of completeness in the face of impending challenges.
The Biblical plea for peace, found in Psalm 122:6, “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem,” underscores its profound importance and efficacy. God’s directive does not merely call for the absence of conflict in the Holy Land but encourages Christians to pray for the prosperity, purpose, and destiny of Israel. God’s peace signifies restoration and healing for the Holy Land and the Jewish people (Jeremiah 33:7-9).
Isaiah’s prophecy about the Messiah being the “Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6) signifies that He is the ultimate source of inner fullness. The statement, “Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end” (v.7), conveys that He aims to establish a Kingdom of enduring peace, emphasizing that peace is a profound aspiration. When we pray for peace in Jerusalem, it is not solely for physical safety but for establishing the Messiah’s eternal Kingdom in Jerusalem, the capital of everlasting peace.
The expression “Peace be within your walls and security within your towers!” underscores that peace is fundamentally an internal state. God desires to make Jerusalem whole and complete so that her light may shine in the darkness of this world.
God’s Peace
Interestingly, the world’s concept of peace often revolves around an escape from life’s pressures—a temporary respite, a break from responsibilities and burdens. In stark contrast, God’s peace represents an inner serenity amidst external chaos. It is deeply rooted within the human soul and remains unshaken. The essence of Biblical peace lies in the profound notion that, while individuals may be powerless to prevent trials, they can discover a peace that equips them to face life’s challenges with unwavering resolve.
When Christ was born, the angels proclaimed, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests” (Luke 2:14). These angelic messengers conveyed God’s character and divine purpose, filled with profound wonder and awe. The arrival of the embodiment of Peace to establish unblemished tranquility in a world marred by sin was nothing short of breathtaking.
To achieve God’s peace in our world, several essential conditions must be met:
- Peace with God: God’s peace is inseparable from His presence; it is where He is found. Humanity’s hope lies in the availability of this Peace to open hearts that embrace faith and humility. Christ’s peace emanates from a loving and continuous relationship with Him, characterized by dependence on God. Jesus Christ serves as the cornerstone of true peace (Romans 15:33).
- Peace with oneself: Peace is attained when the turbulent nature of human beings is harnessed. Our desires, tendencies, and thoughts often lead us astray, like wild animals without restraint. When Christ enters the hearts of individuals, He brings order to unruly passions through His command of love and guides them to tranquil waters. True peace commences with self-discipline (1 Corinthians 9:27).
- Peace with others: The world is rife with conflicts, and people’s anger abounds. Society grapples with a situation in which disagreements escalate to the detriment of the community, resulting in grievous crimes and repulsive behaviors. As James 4:1 reminds us, “What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you?” The root of societal discord is often human egotism, a condition curable only through applying Christ’s love to people’s hearts.
Our relationships with others are profoundly influenced by our peace with God and with ourselves. The indwelling Spirit of Christ empowers His followers to emulate His qualities such as gentleness, compassion, love, patience, and more, fostering harmonious relationships among people (1 John 2:6; John 14:15).
Becoming Peacemakers
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God”
(Matthew 5:9)
These potent words of Christ are paramount to the call of Christians in the Gospel mission. Jesus is not casually alluding to the pursuit of friendship and harmony. More than this, Christians are expected to share their inner completeness with the people they encounter.
The Hebrew connotation of “Shalom” signifies an excess of peace, so much that it spills over into the lives of others. You become a peacemaker when you share His peace. To become a child of God is the noblest title to behold. It can be afforded when people live in His irrepressible peace.
Peace is the outcome of trust in God. It cannot be found in the opulence and potential of this world. Christ says, “…my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you” (John 14:27). Peace is a gift from the Jehovah Shalom, the Designer of pristine peace.
Conclusion
The peace of Christ contrasts with the empty gestures of worldly peace. It is not a simple wish for pleasure or honor, but it is reconciliation with God. His peace is His character, His perspectives of life, and His Spirit. The world cannot give what it does not have; ‘Peace, peace,’ they say, when there is no peace. (Jeremiah 6:14); “While people are saying, “There is peace and security,” then sudden destruction will come…” (1 Thessalonians 5:3). Christ gives the peace that He owns and that He suffered for to all without preference or prejudice. Shalom Aleichem!
