The Path of Shalom

“He will illuminate the path that leads to the way of peace.” (Luke 1:79b TPT)

At our local park, there are paved pathways for non-motorized activities. On a nice day, these trails can get crowded with runners, walkers, cyclists, etc. One way to avoid the crowds and have a peaceful run is to find rarely used trails. Off the main paved walkways, look for areas in the grass that are slightly more worn than their surroundings. These narrow tracks usually connect to hidden trails. 

In life we make choices that lead us down different tracks. The popular ways are usually paved and crowded. Most of us choose these convivial paths of certainty and companionship. Paths of peace are always subtle and secluded. They branch off from the main thoroughfare and connect to hidden trails. This is not an easy or stress-free way. Peace comes, not at the end of the trail, but with every step you take on this path. 

Shalom is the Hebrew word for peace and wholeness. The concept encompasses more than the absence of conflict or turmoil. Shalom is a condition of emotional stability based on trust in God. Jesus has already blazed the trail of peace that transcends circumstances. His steps illuminate the way for us.  He showed us how to live and walk down the path of shalom. 

 

The Blessing

“May the Lord bless you and take care of you. May the Lord be kind and gracious to you. May the Lord look on you with favor and give you peace.” (Numbers 6:25-26 GNT)

The above verses are part of the Aaronic Blessing. This prayer has been used as a benediction since the time of Moses. In 2020, as the pandemic raged across the world, these verses were made into a song that became a viral sensation. Virtual choirs joined together from all over the world, combining their voices and instruments to sing blessings over cities, nations, and continents. The blessings flowed out and covered the earth--from America to Zimbabwe, from living rooms and balconies, in languages ranging from Arabic to  Zulu. People from diverse nationalities, ages, and races recorded themselves singing this benediction. The images of distinctly different people blending their voices in unity uplifted and inspired others. The videos were shared and viewed millions of times, spreading joy and peace in a time of uncertainty and suffering. 

I like to spread blessings whenever possible. Since I am not a good singer, I simply pray these words in my head. Instead of a virtual choir, I become part of a supernatural choir of inaudible praise. Perhaps you would like to join me? You don’t need any recording equipment or talent. As you go about your day, fill your mind with prayers of blessing for all of creation. 

The Lord bless you

And keep you

Make His face shine upon you

And be gracious to you

The Lord turn His

Face toward you

And give you peace

Amen, amen, amen

May His favor be upon you

And a thousand generations

And Your family and your children

And their children, and their children

May His presence go before you

And behind you, and beside you

All around you, and within you

He is with you, He is with you

In the morning, in the evening

In your coming, and your going

In your weeping, and rejoicing

He is for you, He is for you

Amen, amen, amen

(Lyrics by Codey Carnes and Kari Jobe)

Seasonal Perspectives

“Everything seems to go wrong when you feel weak and depressed. But when you choose to be cheerful, every day will bring you more and more joy and fullness.” (Proverbs 15:15 TPT)

In the summer, the sun rises early and sets late. There is no shortage of light-filled hours during this season. During these months, I wear dark sunglasses that shield my eyes against the sun’s bright glare. As winter approaches, and daylight becomes limited, I switch to yellow-tinted sunglasses. These provide enhanced contrast sensitivity when everything looks gray outside. Yellow lenses are also known to have positive effects on mood, as well as improve mental clarity.  I am intentional about making this switch as the seasons change. 

I have noticed other shifts in my perspective as I move through different seasons of life. Things that were important a few years ago no longer matter to me. In contrast, some things that appeared trivial now have great significance. When I am in a good mood, all seems well with the world. When I am sad, everything looks gloomy. Seasonal perspectives influence my emotions and my outlook. Thus, I have to be intentional about switching the lens through which I view everything. A filter of gratitude enhances contrast. It helps me remember all that is good and not take anything for granted.  I may not be able to change all that is wrong in this world, but I can choose my attitude and response. Looking at circumstances through the lens of spiritual awareness also brings clarity. Everything that is visible and invisible is a manifestation of Divinity and created for God’s purpose.

Power Source

“That’s why I work and struggle so hard, depending on Christ’s mighty power that works within me.” (Colossians 1:29 NLT)

A few years ago, I visited the Pinecreek Grist Mill. This historic water mill served local farmers in the 1800’s. Water mills use the power of flowing rivers to turn a large wheel which can operate millstones that can be used to grind grain into flour. Prior to my visit, I had only seen pictures of water mills--with their huge wooden wheels on the outside of weathered buildings. The Pinecreek Grist Mill was different than I expected. Due to the cold winters in Iowa, the water wheel has always been located inside the building. I could imagine the laborers doing business on the main floor of the mill, while the  giant wheel turned underneath the building. Although it was out of sight, I am sure the millers knew that their work was dependent on the mighty power of the river. 

I was reminded of this old water mill when I read the above verse from Colossians. Just like the industrious millers who worked at the Pinecreek Grist Mill centuries ago, I labor and struggle daily. There is much to be done, and I am not that strong or able. When I am exhausted and overwhelmed--it is easy to forget that all the visible work I do is actually powered by an invisible force within me. I am dependent on Christ’s mighty power. As long as I remain connected to the flow of the Divine Spirit within me, all that needs to be done will get done.

Social Fabrications

“If we live in the light, we have fellowship with each other.” (1 John 1:7a ERV)

Have you noticed how junk food leaves you craving more while healthy food rarely does? Foods that are bad for you are often higher in calories and induce overeating. It’s a double whammy of setbacks. 

I can eat a bowl of potato chips and still feel unsatisfied, while a plain baked potato makes me feel full. Of course, the latter is boring compared to the former--which points to the fact that I am looking for amusement in my food, not nourishment. 

Certain social groups can have a similar, double whammy effect. The fellowship feels pleasurable, but unsatisfying. They drain resources of time, energy, and authenticity--but leave you craving something more. Gatherings of relatives, friends, coworkers, congregations, sporting events, concerts, political rallies, etc., can be exciting. Group settings allow you to believe that you have things in common with others, that you are not weird, that you are not alone.  These social fabrications can be amusing, but rarely nurturing. 

Authentic communion is fulfilling. The connection is organic, open, loving, joyful, and accepting.There is nothing artificial about it--no dark motives, no pretense, no fake pleasantries, no hierarchies, no snide put-downs, no showing off, no ego-stroking, no spectacle, no mind games, no power struggles. True fellowship is also rare, because it requires commitment and consistency. This is hard to swallow for those who are accustomed to a steady diet of superficial, social fabrications. Sincere connections enable us to glimpse intangible realities. When we live in the light of authenticity, we realize that everything and everyone is unified in God. 

Following in Trust

“Teach me how to live, O LORD. Lead me along the right path.” (Psalm 27:11 NLT)

My husband and I occasionally run with a friend named John. He joins us on early morning training runs. Our routes are often unfamiliar to him. My husband and I are detailed planners. We plan out each route, times, gear, hydration, and fuel like Navy Seals on a special operation. When John shows up to run with us, I always ask him if he wants to know where we are going. His answer is always the same: “No, I’ll just follow you.” I’m not sure if he is confident in our planning skills or in his own ability to fend for himself no matter where we take him!

On the journey of life, I would like to follow the Lord with confident trust. I want to focus on Jesus who leads the way. I  do not want to worry about the route, the darkness, how long it will take, or what I might need on the trail. I want to rely on the Lord completely for guidance. 

Lord, teach me how to live, lead me along the right path. Protect me from danger. Let me be aware of Your presence at all times. Converse with me and stay close. Be patient with me when I am slow. Do not leave me behind. Train me to be confident in You. 

Intrusive Thoughts

“Above all, be careful what you think because your thoughts control your life.” (Proverbs 4:23 ERV)

I’m thinking about getting some security cameras for my home. After some research, I am astonished at all the varieties and features that are currently available with these systems--indoor, outdoor, wired, wireless, infrared night vision, motion detectors, online data storage, high resolution video, professional monitoring services--all to guard your home against intruders! Thus far, I have been hesitant to purchase and install security cameras because of their cost and maintenance. Since we live in a rural area where the most common intruders are racoons and cats, I am unsure that it is even necessary. 

Unlike my neighborhood, my mind is vulnerable to intruders. Bothersome worries that steal my joy and peace arrive at my door frequently. The motion sensors of my mind see them coming. I know they are harmful, yet I open the door and let them in. Even worse, I dwell with these negative thoughts. These squatters leave behind a mess of agitation and anxiety that is difficult to clean up. My go-to routine to escape intrusive thoughts is distraction. This is not a good solution. It is equivalent to leaving my home unattended when I see someone sneaking in. I don’t think I can protect my heart on my own. I need a Higher Power to monitor my  thoughts. 

After some reading and contemplation, I have been practicing a few techniques. I would like to share these security tips: 

When you detect an invasive notion, zoom in. Concentrate on what matters. Be aware of what needs protecting. Carefully screen the thoughts that you let in. Intrusive concerns can take control of your life. If you are unable to guard your heart on your own, call for help. Ask God to monitor your thoughts and manage your mind.

“God, I invite your searching gaze into my heart. Examine me through and through; find out everything that may be hidden within me. Put me to the test and sift through all my anxious cares.” (Psalm 139:23 TPT)