SHABBAT MESSAGE: MARCH 9, 2024
Brothers and sisters in Yahushua,
Walking in the Light: The Pursuit of Shalom
Shalom, a term often translated as “peace,” carries a much deeper meaning in the Hebrew language. It represents completeness, wholeness, health, peace, welfare, safety, soundness, tranquility, prosperity, perfectness, fullness, rest, harmony, and the absence of agitation or discord. This sermon will delve into the pursuit of Shalom as part of a Paleo-Messianic lifestyle and its significance in relation to Jerusalem.
Understanding Shalom
In the Paleo-Messianic faith, Shalom is not merely a state of non-conflict. It is a positive state of wholeness and harmony, both within oneself and in one’s relationships with others. It is a state of being that reflects the original design of YHWH (יהוה) for human life. This understanding of Shalom can be seen in numerous passages throughout the Scriptures.
In the book of Genesis, we see the world as YHWH intended it to be, a world characterized by Shalom. Genesis 1:31 says, “And YHVH saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good.” The Hebrew word for “very good,” me’od tob, suggests a state of completeness and harmony, a world at Shalom.
The Pursuit of Shalom
The pursuit of Shalom, then, is a return to YHWH’s original design for human life. It is a pursuit of wholeness and harmony in all aspects of life. This pursuit is not a passive one, but an active one. It requires intentional action to promote Shalom in our own lives and in our relationships with others.
In the book of Leviticus, YHWH gives the Israelites various laws and commandments. These were not arbitrary rules, but guidelines for how to live in Shalom. For example, Leviticus 19:18 says, “Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am YHWH.” This commandment promotes Shalom by encouraging harmonious relationships within the community.
Shalom and Jerusalem
The city of Jerusalem holds a significant place in the Paleo-Messianic faith. Its very name means “City of Peace,” or “Foundation of Shalom.” It is seen as the place where YHWH’s Shalom will be fully realized.
In the book of Isaiah, the prophet speaks of a future time when YHWH’s Shalom will be established in Jerusalem. Isaiah 52:7 says, “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, ‘Your Adon reigns!’” This verse speaks of a time when Shalom will reign in Jerusalem, a time of complete wholeness and harmony under the reign of YHWH.
Conclusion
The pursuit of Shalom is a central aspect of the Paleo-Messianic lifestyle. It is a pursuit of YHWH’s original design for human life, a state of wholeness and harmony in all aspects of life. As believers, we are called to actively promote Shalom in our own lives and in our relationships with others. And we look forward to the day when YHWH’s Shalom will be fully realized in Jerusalem, the City of Peace.
May we all continue to walk in the light of YHWH, pursuing Shalom in all that we do.
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Shalom!