—Psalm 46:9
At the beginning of this psalm, the earth is in turmoil—seemingly because of natural disasters—yet God's people are not afraid. And here in v. 9 we see the culmination of more chaos, this being raging war. But, as Calvin points out, our hope lies not in temporary truces, but "should look for peace from [God], even when the whole world is in uproar, and agitated in a dreadful manner."
I am discouraged, Lord. Peace seems so far away. Nation fights nation, and the issues that divide them seem insoluble. I long for the absence of war. Yet I know that that is not peace, for your shalom requires the presence of justice. Show us what shalom looks like that we may, by your power and wisdom, be makers of peace and workers of justice; in Jesus' Name. Amen.
