A Welcoming Light!
Let your light so shine before others, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
Matthew 5:16
Radical hospitality is not just opening our doors — it is opening our hearts so wide that God’s light spills out into every encounter. It is an active, peace-making welcome that says, “You belong here!”
Prayer is the hidden lantern that fuels such hospitality. Before we set a table or open a door, we can whisper: “Lord, prepare me to make space for You in my encounters with others.” Prayer shapes the welcome into something more than politeness — it turns it into peace.
Peace is not the absence of conflict; it is the presence of Christ in the midst of whatever comes. When we practice radical hospitality in peace, we don’t just invite people into our homes, office, school, church or meetups — we invite them into the Light.
Be The Light:
· Offer a “Light Prayer” – Before you greet anyone, silently ask God to let your words and demeanor reflect His light.
· Make Room – Physically and emotionally. Rearrange schedules or spaces to create an open seat for someone who needs it. Schedule your day to make time to meet with God. Put down your phone and give your undivided attention.
· Bring Peace into the Room – Listen more than you speak and be a calming presence in tense situations. Seek first to understand instead of to be understood.
· Let Light Lead – When tempted to withhold kindness from someone hard to love, remember: the light was given to you through Christ— and His light never runs out. Your light was received in grace and grace should be freely given.
Closing Prayer
Lord, make my welcome a reflection of Your heart. Let my light shine, not to point to me, but to You. Lord, may I be sanctuary where others find refuge and peace. May my home, my hands, and my heart be lanterns of peace for all who enter. Amen.
Light and Love,
Rev. Sondrea L. Tolbert, J.D., M.Div.
Executive Director
*Image Credit: AWA Tree Consultants
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