Inspiration:
Spirit of Peace, help me to build justice, which is the root of peace.
Restoring Justice
The Hebrew notion of teshuvah, or returning to God through repentance, is closely connected to the ancient notion of shalom. Usually translated merely as “peace,” shalom’s full meaning has to do with a reign of justice, healing, and righteousness. Scholars tell us that the purpose of Jewish law was not the meting out of vindictive suffering, but the restoration of balance, and a renewal of the promise of abundant life between humans and God. …
When people come together to seek reconciliation and forgiveness, the God of love and justice is near. The presence that transforms, the presence that forgives, the presence that makes us new—that presence is near. It is in the places of transgression and return that we will learn what it means to be human. It is in the places where we are broken that we will encounter a sacred and transforming power.
BY SUSAN CONRAD, CHAPLAIN AND ASSOCIATE SUPERVISOR OF PASTORAL EDUCATION, ALTA BATES SUMMIT MEDICAL CENTER, BERKELEY/OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA TO READ MORE
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