Shalom can be described as salvation, completeness, wholeness and harmony. Essentially, it is the restoration and reconciliation of the human being to the image of God, as exemplified in the life of Jesus Christ, and to the world that God has created and loves. Shalom results in individuals understanding their value to Christ. When individuals are transformed by God’s shalom, communities follow.

We want to help communities flourish in the same way a tree planted by water flourishes as is portrayed in Psalm 1:3. It is our vision that communities might thrive, grow and experience reconciliation. We describe ourselves as “spiritual environmentalists” doing what we can to help create the right environment, so that it grows to accomplish God’s intended purpose.

Often, those affected by poverty, disability, sin, and injustice have lost their dignity. Dignity demands that we have respect and honor for each individual simply because they are created in the image of God. The Bible says, “Treat everyone you meet with dignity.” (1 Pet. 2:17) We never assume we are better, smarter, or more valuable than others. As the proverbs says, “Rich and poor have this in common: The Lord is the Maker of them all!”

Most communities today are not experiencing “shalom,” but Jesus instructs his disciples to pray “Thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven…” with the intent that shalom would be established all over the world. In heaven, God’s will is done perfectly. Here on earth, we’re asked to join God in bringing His shalom to bear on every part in life.