Monday’s Moment of Shalom …
The Hebrew word Shalom (שָׁלוֹם) is my favorite word in any language. It denotes a lack of conflict and war but is much more, including harmony, interior peace, completeness, and prosperity. Shalom, I envision, is whole-soul wellness, encompassing body, emotions, thoughts, intellect, relationships, vocation, and spiritual connection.
Lindisfarne Castle on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne in Northeast England
It is great to rejoin you today. I have thought about and prayed for the people who read my Listening on the Journey … blog posts often these past three months.
During my time of sabbatical, the word Shalom often came to mind.
While I watched news about war and devastation in so many areas.
When I tried to strategize and deal with some of my own wellness challenges.
As I felt sorrow and concern about physical and relational difficulties of friends and loved ones.
I prayed for Shalom throughout the world, for those in my circle of loved ones, for acquaintances, and for myself.
While thinking about Shalom, my husband and I were preparing for a trip to Ireland, Scotland, and the Holy Isle of Lindisfarne. I felt a deep desire to experience shalom during our time away despite the inevitable challenges that accompany international travel.
Our first stop was Dublin, Ireland, a lively city with some of the friendliest people.
Second stop was Scotland–tartan plaid, bagpipes, rich history and deep national pride.
We arrived home late May 4th and are happy to be back! Our bodies are tired. Our bank account is leaner. But our hearts are full of so many wonderful memories and lifegiving learning. Travel is part of my core value of lifelong learning.
Yes, there were stressful, inconvenient moments, but Ron and I agree the large and small gifts we received from God each step of our journey exceeded every annoyance.
While preparing for our trip, we watched YouTube blog/videos of a Celtic pilgrimage undertaken by Pete Greig, founder of 24-7 Prayer, and his friends. I was deeply impacted during one vlog by an interview with and prayer of a 90-something-year-old man named Callum, who had converted his family’s hunting lodge in Scotland into a house of prayer in which pilgrims from all over the world were welcomed. Callum prayed for “all the lovely people in the world who have not yet met Jesus.” These words were touching as they confirmed my own experience of meeting so many lovely people from all over the world. His prayer prompted me to write this Prayer of Shalom, which I hope will on some level resonate with your soul.
Prayer of Shalom
Father God,
As I travel through this day,
Give me eyes to see the Imago Dei—your imprint—in everyone I meet.
Jesus,
Grant me a heart, tender to all the lovely people in this world,
Who desire the meaningful connection your grace offers.
Holy Spirit,
Go with me as I learn to listen, move, labor,
And obey the gentle whisper of your still, small voice.
Amen
(See: Genesis 1:26-27; John 14:6; 1 Kings 19:12)
Shalom on your journey,
