Psalm Late 122:6-8

70 years ago, the nation-state of Israel declared its independence. The unlikely birth of this tiny new democracy represented a miracle of immense proportions and an extraordinary fulfillment of biblical prophecy. The Bible tells us we should be praying for the peace of Jerusalem. Here are some ways you can pray:

Die uitnodiging na die Oorvloedige Lewe is sentraal tot God se plan en belofte vir die mensdom. Die Bybel is gevul met ryk beelde van die vervullende lewe wat God ons bied in Jesus – ‘n lewe van vrede en vreugde. Maar hoe floreer mens in ‘n wisselvallige wêreld? In hierdie eerste leesplan in die reeks kyk ons hoe Israel deur die eeue getroue getuies van die verbond van vrede was. Die Pelgrims-Psalms (120-134) was sentraal tot hul geloof en essensieel vir hul identiteit as die volk van God. Hierdie gebede bied vandag steeds so baie krag en hoop.

In Judaism, peace—shalom—is rooted in the Hebrew word shalem, which means “whole” or “complete.” True shalom implies that diverse parties purposely set aside their differences and agree to see the good in one another, not just living alongside but among one another for a higher calling or purpose. This devotional plan explores 12 different steps we can all take toward achieving shalom in our lives.