Peace: Longing for the King of Shalom (Psalm 72)

In this Advent message, we explore Psalm 72—a powerful prayer that gives voice to one of the deepest longings of the human heart: the longing for peace. All of us feel that the world isn’t the way it’s supposed to be—cancer, hunger, war, injustice, natural disasters, and personal suffering. Theologian Cornelius Plantinga described this brokenness as the “vandalism of shalom.” Psalm 72 invites us to cry out for the King who alone can restore peace—not just the absence of conflict, but the presence of shalom: justice, flourishing, wholeness, and life the way God intended. In this sermon, Pastor Mace Perez walks through Psalm 72 and shows how it calls us to long for the King who brings peace for the poor and oppressed, peace for all nations, and peace for all creation. Ultimately, this longing is fulfilled in Jesus—the King who came, who conquered the enemies of peace through His life, death, and resurrection, and who will return to make all things new. If this episode encourages you, consider sharing it with a friend, leaving a review, or subscribing for more sermons and resources that help you discover the truth, goodness, and beauty of the Christian Story. If you’re in the Houston area, we’d love to have you join us on Sundays at 10:30 AM at 1703 Heights Blvd., Houston, TX 77008.