Shalom

Please take a moment to read Psalm 85

Shalom!
Psalm 85 has so many layers to unpack, and so much wisdom! We are reminded of the many blessings we have received and how our sins are forgiven. And yet, we continue to sin. But wait, there is hope… Shalom can be achieved if mercy, truth, justice and love come together.

I got to witness such a merging of values on a field trip our Martha Circle took recently. We traveled to Omaha for a tour of the Tri-Faith Community. The only such place in the Western Hemisphere, it was built to bring Muslim, Judaism, and Christianity together to live peacefully and respectfully. In the center is Abraham’s Bridge (fittingly, going over Hell Creek!) making a pathway to the three religious sites in footsteps and in history. All three religions honor Abraham as a founding father of their beliefs. Shalom was present in each building and guide. There was a peace that welcomed us to explore and open our hearts to learn.

We are all children of God, made in God’s image. We may not think the same or understand God in the same way, yet we are to love one another, just as Christ loves us. This is the power of the Gospel in Psalm 85. It is where “righteousness and peace kiss.” Isn’t that an intimate picture? Such is the power of Shalom.

Lord, thank you for all the many blessings you have poured down on our land and on each of us. Grant us grace and peace to be your hands in our world. Let us practice Shalom! Amen

Written by Cindy Swanson

Cindy and her husband, Ray, have been members of Sheridan Lutheran Church since 1978. They have three sons, Ben, Andrew and Patrick who were confirmed at Sheridan. They enjoy spending time with their grandchildren who range in age from 4-10. Cindy retired from teaching writing to middle schoolers for Lincoln Public Schools in 2014. She savors a good cup of coffee, a well-written book, a lively discussion and chocolate. She lives near a cemetery and knows each day is a gift!