Seeking Shalom for Our Cities

Jeremiah was known as the weeping prophet. He cried out to God on behalf of His people and pled tearfully for them to repent and turn to God. When they were exiled to Babylon, Jeremiah prophesied as to how they should live in captivity. Jeremiah 29:7 is a powerful summation of God's instructions: "But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare." (ESV) The word welfare in this verse, which appears three times, comes from the Hebrew word, Shalom. While Shalom is often translated peace, it means far more; Shalom means to flourish in a state of peace that includes spiritual health, wholeness, harmony, security, and fruitfulness, despite circumstances that may be contrary. These are astounding words for a people in exile. And yet they are relevant words for Christians in our day, no matter what nation or city or sphere in which we dwell. Jesus, the Prince of Peace, personified Shalom. And God's Word calls for us to do the same.