What comes to mind when you hear the word shalom? Maybe you connect it with the Israeli greetings of “hello” and “goodbye.” More than likely you think of “peace.” But this understanding of shalom doesn’t fully capture the meaning of the word in Hebrew. It is so much more than the absence of turbulence or war. Shalom is rooted in the Hebrew word shalem, which means “whole” or “complete.” True Shalom is the presence of wholeness, unity, and connection with our neighbors. It truly is the greatest blessing you can pray upon anyone else. The vision of shalom is that if we build unity in our homes and communities, the more we will see shalom in the world. If we reach out to people different from us — and learn from these differences — it can change the world. Are you ready for this spiritual challenge? Listen now!