Building God’s Kingdom of Shalom

Agents of Flourishing: Amy Sherman has done some excellent biblical thinking about this idea and how it impacts society. The diagram used throughout this blog is adapted from her work.

Did you know that God calls us to be priests? Every last one of us. This divine calling is not reserved for a select few but is a privilege extended to every believer. The Bible is replete with verses that emphasize this beautiful truth.

“Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.” —Exodus 19:5

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” —1 Peter 2:9

“To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father.” —Revelation 1:5–6

Try saying to yourself, “I am a priest!” Did that feel a little uncomfortable? Priests are those who intercede for God, representing him to the people and the people to God. And guess what? Every time you pray on behalf of others, you are taking on that priestly role. When you go out into the world—whether it’s dining at a restaurant, working out at the gym, or attending a class at the university—you represent God to the world.

What’s truly remarkable about God’s design for us is that everybody gets to be a priest. There isn’t a special class of priests in the Christian faith. We’ve created this distinction between laypeople and professional Christians, but it doesn’t come from the Bible. In God’s eyes, when it comes to representing Jesus, everyone is equal—we are a kingdom of priests!

Our role as priests in the kingdom of Shalom is crucial, and it ushers in the presence of God to a world that desperately needs it. Let’s break down how each of us, in our everyday lives, contributes to the kingdom in six essential ways:

1. The Good:

Every action you take contributes to the kingdom. Whether you're writing an expense report, assisting a customer, or sending an email, you are not merely an employee, a parent, or a politician. You are a priest, representing people to God and God to people. Your role is critical in bringing forth the kingdom of Shalom.

2. The Just:

This category includes individuals like police officers, military personnel, lawyers, and government officials. These individuals uphold justice in society, ensuring that laws are followed and wrongs are made right. For instance, consider the vital role of the police in maintaining peace and safety in our communities.

3. The Prosperous:

Entrepreneurs, business owners, HR professionals, financial advisors, accountants, janitors, operations staff—they all play a part in creating economic shalom. A thriving economy provides opportunities for growth, self-sufficiency, and a better life for everyone, especially those on the lowest rungs of the economic ladder.

4. The Sustainable:

Think of those in the healthcare sector—doctors, nurses, counselors, chiropractors, nutritionists, and trainers. They contribute to physical and emotional healing, aligning with Jesus’ mission of healing the sick. Farmers also play a crucial role by co-creating with God to provide food for humanity.

5. The True:

This category includes educators, journalists, bloggers, librarians, and individuals who inspire truth and wisdom in our culture. They help direct our values.

6. The Beautiful:

This category includes artists, architects, musicians, city planners—any individual who works to develop beauty and inspire creativity in our communities. They help shape our perspectives and understanding of the world and bring beauty to our surroundings, reflecting God’s creativity in our own world.

By embracing your calling as a kingdom bringer, you contribute to the flourishing of the kingdom of Shalom in your sphere of influence. Your work matters, not just in a worldly sense but in a spiritual sense as well. You are building a cathedral to the Almighty, and your efforts will stand for generations.

So, what are you doing today? Are you merely going through the motions of your daily tasks, or are you actively building the kingdom of Shalom? Embrace your calling, and may the Lord cause you to flourish, both you and your children, as you live out your role as a priest in God's kingdom.

Blog adapted from September 17, 2023 message by Minister Mark Ashton