Offering Hospitality -

Today’s devotion comes from my most recent book, A Warrior of Peace. As we plan out delectable meals, organize fantastic celebrations, and gather with our family and friends, I thought we could prepare our hearts to be hospitable to all we visit and entertain.

When you enter a house, first say, ‘Peace to this house.’ Luke 10:5.

It was a beautiful basket, brimming with good and thoughtful gifts. My mouth watered at the thought of enjoying the chocolates, filling my new coffee mug with a fresh coffee flavor, and kicking my feet up as I perused the coupons to all the local favorites. I was grateful for the neighborly person who came into my home that afternoon and brought a welcoming peace.

When Jesus sent out 72 of His followers to gather people into the Kingdom, He instructed them to enter the houses they visited by saying, ‘Peace to this house.’ Before eating, drinking, or visiting, Jesus told them to say, ‘Peace.’ They may not have carried with them baskets of local fares to share, but they came bearing an even greater gift, the gift of peace.

Do you realize that when we walk through our neighbors’ doors as believers, we carry the same gift of the gospel of peace with us? God has called us, like the 72, to work in the harvest field and share the Word of God with everyone we meet.

{A Warrior of Peace Enters with A Gift of Peace}

So, offer up your stories, gather others at the table, and share your life with those who are hungry for the gift of peace. We are the Church. Let’s pray today that God would use us according to our called purpose to offer the gift of peace. Do you have a certain gift you like to bring to people? Perhaps a favorite meal to cook for others? How is this gift usually received?

Heavenly Father, give a clear vision for how I am to bring the gift of peace to others today. Equip me with the words and deeds that will bless others. Whether I open my home to others or accept the hospitality of friends and family, may I always extend peace before anything else. In Jesus’ name.Amen

Did you enjoy the devotion? Want to read more? A Warrior of Peace, A 30-Day Journey to a Heart at Peace is available on Amazon!