It is with great appreciation to God that I send you this letter. What a privilege to be reconnected to this family of God and my alma mater, ‘Anglican Students Fellowship!’  I am happy to learn of progress we have all made as Senior Friends and of how we are leading vibrant lives, raising godly families and impacting our communities. Glory be to God!

In similar words and Spirit to that of John and Paul, I herewith bring you glad tidings of Peace.

“Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” (3 John 2:4, NIV)

“Now may God himself, the God of peace make you pure, belonging only to him. May your whole self – spirit, soul and body- be kept safe and without fault when our Lord Jesus Christ comes. You can trust the One who calls you to do that for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24, NCV).

Amid Gideon’s intimidation by the Midianites, he experienced angelic visitation by the Lord of peace. The same Lord that could consume his test offering of meat, bread and broth by fire (Judges 6:21) was the same Lord who had encouraged him and spoken to him, saying “It is all right, do not be afraid, you will not die!” (v23) Little wonder he raised an altar to that same Lord with the appellation ‘Yahweh-Shalom’ stemming from his encounter with the purifying power of God’s peace. (Judges 6 vs 24). Yahweh-Shalom means ‘The Lord is Peace.’

Philosopher Cornelus Plantiga explains Shalom like this: “In the Bible, shalom means universal flourishing, wholeness and delight – a rich state-of-affairs in which natural needs are satisfied and natural gifts fruitfully employed, a state-of-affairs that inspires joyful wonder as its Creator and Savior opens doors and welcomes the creatures in whom He delights.” In the welcoming and loving presence of the God of peace himself, Gideon’s fears had diminished, and he could then truly manifest as the mighty man of valour, we see that he was made whole, and restored to his true calling. He had been purified in the presence of his Creator.

Our Saviour’s provision for us is peace, He is the Prince of Peace just as He said in His Word.

“But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything that I have said to you. 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.” (John 14:26-27, NIV).

By the purifying power of peace, may we continually be living sacrifices and testimonies to the glory of God in the name of Jesus Christ. May everything in our lives that represents deadness be consumed by the fire of God’s peace and our lives be transformed completely to bring God a healthy, holy and wholesome aroma of praise and glory. Amen!

Shalom!

Mrs. Olubukayo Oladunjoye (Bukayo) is a kingdom minded believer and achiever with varied interests including sports, arts and wellness.