God’s word to the Jewish exiles in Babylon was not what they expected. Rather than promising a quick rescue, He called them to settle in, build lives, and actively seek the shalom of the very city that had taken them captive. Shalom, the Hebrew word translated as welfare or peace, carries the meaning of wholeness, flourishing, and right relationships. That same call applies to Christians today. We are placed in our communities, our workplaces, and our cultural moment on purpose, and our mission is to pursue the well-being of the people around us. Our ultimate hope is not in any political candidate or party, but in Jesus Christ, the Prince of Shalom, who makes true flourishing possible for all of creation.
