A Shaken Peace
Haggai 2:6-7
6 “This is what the Lord Almighty says: ‘In a little while I will once more shake the heavens and the earth, the sea and the dry land. 7 I will shake all nations, and what is desired by all nations will come, and I will fill this house with glory,’ says the Lord Almighty.
The past four years have been marked by unprecedented challenges as the world has grappled with the COVID-19 pandemic, which brought significant disruptions to daily life and health systems. As nations began to rebound, they faced the strain of rising inflation, impacting economies and the cost of living for countless families. On October 7, 2023, a significant escalation in the Israel-Palestine conflict occurred, unprecedented in recent history. In 2024, America experienced a Derecho (a widespread, long-lived, straight-line wind storm that is associated with a fast-moving group of severe thunderstorms that can cause destruction similar to a tornado), followed by Hurricane Beryl in the southwest. Shortly thereafter, the aftermath of Hurricane Helene (in October of the same year) and its destruction caused further damage and compounded the difficulties faced by many communities, as they began to recover from both natural disasters and the ongoing economic pressures.
Furthermore, what of these disasters which have clearly shaken the earth and societies ? A part of the answer is found in Hebrews 12:26-27 “Once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens.” 27 The words “once more” indicate the removing of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that what cannot be shaken may remain.” These verses highlight the divine authority and power of God, emphasizing that He will shake the heavens and the earth, leading to a transformation of what can be shaken, representing the temporary and unstable elements of the world. So, what can be shaken ? Our trust in the economic system of our nation or the financial stability of the global financial system. Our medical system or our legal system and most importantly, our way of life. This passage serves as a reminder that only the unshakeable, or what is eternal and rooted in God's kingdom, will remain. The shaking symbolizes a refining process where believers are encouraged to focus on their faith amidst the trials and uncertainties of life.
And finally, this unshakeable truth is the peace Jesus spoke of in John 14:27 27 “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” Again, if you recall, the word Jesus is using for peace here is “Shalom”. The word “Shalom” encompasses more than just the absence of conflict; it signifies a profound sense of wholeness and restoration. Rooted in Hebrew tradition, the term conveys the idea that true peace arises when what is broken or shaken is made whole again. This holistic understanding of shalom acknowledges the complexities of life and the struggles that fracture our well-being. It invites a sense of healing that extends beyond superficial tranquility, calling for a deeper reconciliation of relationships, emotions, and even spiritual connections. In this way, “Shalom” or the unshakeable reminds us that peace is not merely a state of stillness but a dynamic process of restoration and fullness. Ultimately, this reinforces the importance of building one's foundation on the solid ground of God's promise, thereby fostering resilience and hope in the face of uncertainty.
Prayerful Thought….
4 They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations. Isaiah 61:4
And Remember…….
“ When fear replaces faith, miracles become impossible. ” -Dr Lee