“If someone who promotes peace is there, your peace will rest on them; if not, it will return to you.”

— Luke 10:6

On my Facebook page I asked a question about how people might define “a person of peace.” I received lots of answers, and a few of those can be summarized as an answer for all. “A person of peace,” they said, “is someone who opens doors for others so that they see life differently.” Another answer (via Google) can help us get to the heart of what Jesus was saying when he sent out 72 followers: “A man or woman, young or old, rich or poor, who is prepared by God to provide entrance into their community for the sake of the gospel.” When Jesus sent his followers on mission for the sake of the gospel (the good news of the kingdom of God), he talked about finding people of peace. These would be people who were open to the message of God’s love and peace, and they would welcome Jesus’ followers with hospitality. One thing I have learned about engaging with people who share God’s love and peace with others is that they do not have a particular personality or come from a certain demographic. Anyone can be used by God to open opportunities for the good news to be shared. It might even be someone you wouldn’t expect. This month let’s explore some stories from the Bible and discover what it looks like to be a person of peace.

Dear God, help us to pay attention when you ask us to go and create spaces for others to hear the message of your good news and love for everyone. Amen.