The word was always around me, but I just never realized how deep and encompassing it was. I have a friend who always uses it in greeting, and I always said it in return without really understanding it. Too much I pray for happiness, or joy, or for God to take my life and make it his. But yet, the words always feel lacking.
I keep thinking more and more about "Shalom". In its most basically accepted form, it means "peace" but yet few people really understand its full meaning. It has more to do with wholeness and well-being. I'm gonna stretch the definition with my own words, "completeness in God". That's what I'm gonna start praying for, in my life and in others' lives, wholeness in God and fulfillment.
I'm beginning to see more complete meanings in Hebrew words and and how they continue to open me up to the power and awe of God.
Shalom! May you be surrounded by the fullness and wholeness of God.
