Sometimes I think we have lost the biblical emphasis regarding the gospel being a message of peace. Toward the end of last century, evangelists often spoke of “how to have peace with God” or “steps to peace with God.” We were taught to ask, “have you made peace with God” and “have you experienced the peace of God in your life?” It often seems one generation’s emphasis is the next generation’s neglect. Has peace, as a facet of the gospel, become familiar, worn, and a hackneyed point of attention?
The prophet writes, “Behold, upon the mountains, the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace” (Nah 1:15)! We live in a world that continues to crave peace–with self, others, society, and yes, God. Minds and hearts are greatly troubled. Suicide rates climb. Anxiety, depression, stress, worry, and fear enshroud multitudes.
I was reminded this week of the human craving for peace as I shared the gospel with a man doing repairs on my house. He revealed he was going through a divorce and was deeply suffering and hurting for his children. His livelihood was at stake and future uncertain. He self-described as “spiritual, but not religious” and sought peace through the religions of the world and meditation–picking and choosing, yet embracing none. Here was an opportunity to draw attention to true peace. Please, pray for him.
Regardless of yesteryear’s emphasis, God’s shalom is to be proclaimed loudly in every generation. Such wholeness and healing is what people need and desire. Our feet are to be covered with the gospel of peace (Eph 6:15) as we travel the roads of life and climb mountains–sharing and showing the the peace of God that passes all understanding (Phil 4:7).
