Soma Austin Community Church

"God's shalom must be worked at.  The roles of peacemakers, communicators, gatherers, organizers and connectors are some of the most vital talents needed for the establishment of peace and prosperity and a prevailing sense of well-being that God desires for His creation.  Shalom is not merely the absence of crime on the street, but it is also the prevailing presence of peace and goodness in the relationships of God's diverse family.  It is achieved only by intentional effort."

This passage from Robert Putnam's Compassion, Justice and the Christian Life sums up beautifully the tension I have been feeling in my soul lately and the substance of it has been trying to get out for some time now.  You see, my soul does not merely desire to not be in pain, or heartache, but it desires joy and purpose.  And I feel strongly that God's purpose for me and all Christ's followers is to participate in the redeeming/renewing work of God which is enabled and encouraged through the Holy Spirit.

Shalom means peace.  And before we can bring peace to those around us, we must have this peace in our hearts.  We don't work for this peace.  This peace comes from resting in the loving provision and sufficiency of the sacrifice of Christ.  That the acceptance and approval we seek comes not from work, but from rest is counter-intuitive.

Bringing shalom (peace) to those around us requires intentionality.  Intentionality might be the hardest part for many because we still often seek to serve ourselves.  We first need to intentionally repent and be transformed by the grace offered us anew.

Bringing shalom (peace) to those around us requires work.  But not the kind that works for approval or acceptance, but rather the kind that says that I am accepted in Christ and I have been transformed by His grace toward me.  Because we have been given peace with God we long to see that peace taking root throughout the hearts of others, and we long to see peace and life and joy brought to our communities.

So you see the tension here, don't you?  It's humbling.  And it's work.  But it is also filled with so much rest and joy and celebration.  I pray that I choose to rest in the Cross, have my desires transformed and work through the enabling power of the Holy Spirit, all while resting in Christ for the results of the work.

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