Shalom : Hope for a Divided World

In a recent theology class discussion about the integral beauty, harmony, and peace of God in the Garden of Eden, one of my third-grade students connected the concept of shalom to the reality of his known world and, drawing a deep sigh, said mournfully, “I really wish Adam and Eve hadn’t eaten that fruit.” Even through the eyes of a child, the harsh departure from God’s original plan is clear.

Why is the world in which we live one of continuous division and hostility, competing interests, and distinct identities? The Church provides an answer to both the problem and the solution in the age-old homonym: No Jesus, no peace. Know Jesus, know peace. Yet, the world attempts to find a workaround.

Decades of summits, treaties, and vast amounts of financial aid and resources funneled through institutions and humanitarian organizations have yet to cultivate lasting cooperation and peace through external efforts of negotiations and compromise. Peace remains out of reach because of a flawed understanding of creation.

A biblical answer is found in the garden of Eden, a physical space established by God wherein the system of Creation flourished in shalom: perfect wholeness and well-being where we are at peace with God and all that he has made. Adam and Eve were ordained with authority to govern it as agents of their Creator. Genesis chapter 3 explains how the power of sin wriggled its way straight into the top of the system in a merciless coup of authority, the consequences of which we live in still today.

However, Jesus’ mission as the incarnated Prince of Peace began the reversal of the fall to restore true peace via a restored relationship with God, oneself, and others. It is in relationship with Jesus that humanity can be reconciled, broken relationships restored, and wounded hearts mended. This is a key understanding of Christianity! The peace Jesus provides is not a mere absence of conflict, but restoration of shalom in every aspect of life.

His authority over physical and spiritual creation was made evident through his ability to calm storms, cast out demons, and raise the dead; He transferred that authority to his disciples (Luke 10:1-19, John 14:12) and to us, by extension. Through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, a way was opened for everyone to be saved from sin and to enter a restored relationship of shalom with God. We can again stand with God who forgives our sins and replaces our sinful human nature with His new nature, allowing the Holy Spirit to bring shalom into our lives (see Romans 8:5-8.)

Jesus said, “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” (John 14:27). Let us remember our Prince of Peace offers a powerful message of hope and redemption, not for the future only but for us today in our personal lives and communities. As God’s peace reigns in us, may it spread to those around.

Peace be with you. Shalom!