John 14:27
13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel,
praising God and saying,
14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
When the angels announced Jesus' birth to the shepherds, they declared peace (Shalom) had come to the world. But the meaning of Shalom goes deeper than peace; it also means harmony, wholeness, completeness, prosperity, welfare and tranquility. Isn't that the crux of what we are all looking for? To be at peace within ourselves, between each other and at peace with God? To have that is to be in harmony, whole and complete.
It's interesting to note that Jews greet each other saying, "Shalom," and they say goodbye in the same way. To greet someone with peace, harmony, prosperity and to send them on their way with the same blessing, is not accidental. In the Jewish tradition, the spoken blessing is a very powerful thing; one not to be taken lightly.
As Christians, we have access to the very source of Shalom, and not just access, the Spirit of Shalom resides in us.
John 14:26, 27
26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name,
will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.
27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives.
Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
So, as we navigate the stresses of relationships, work pressures, parenting or loneliness, let us be agents of Shalom this season. Let's allow the Spirit of Shalom to use us to bless others, as we are so richly blessed by Him.
This week, and as we celebrate the birth of Jesus, I bless you saying, "Shalom. May God fill you with His Shalom. May you experience harmony, prosperity, tranquility and wholeness. Shalom."