Week 10
Opening Reflection: Finding a Person of Peace
A “person of peace” could be defined as someone ready to receive what you have to offer. In the Listening to Jesus context, what you offer is Jesus, as well as the opportunity to connect with the “person of peace” and remain connected through the Listening to Jesus discipline. How do you find a person of peace?
Recognize and Discern
People of peace are likely all around you, but not everyone is ready at the same time. You must engage with people to discern whether they are open to what God is ready to do in their heart and spirit through you.
Look for people of peace as you go about your everyday life—at home, at work, at school, at church, or in your community. As opportunities arise, be attentive to the Holy Spirit’s promptings, and be willing to step into conversations with faith and curiosity.
How Jesus Modeled It
Jesus didn’t engage with everyone, even though he rejected no one. He allowed the Spirit to lead him and acted with intention when he did engage.
In Jericho, he noticed Zacchaeus up in a tree and was prompted to stop and speak with him. That single moment of engagement led to Zacchaeus’ transformation. There were many others in the crowd that day, but Jesus focused on the one the Spirit highlighted.
In Samaria, he stopped at a well to rest and asked a woman for water because he was thirsty. Yet that natural moment opened the door to a deeper spiritual conversation, which eventually led to her transformation and the gospel spreading throughout her city.
Green Light - “Yes”
Jesus taught his disciples that “the fields are ripe for harvest, but the workers are few” (Luke 10:2). We are to be those workers—continually looking for the ripe fruit the Lord has prepared. The key is this: when the opportunity presents itself, engage.
How to Begin Looking
A few ways you might actively seek a person of peace:
In your neighborhood – Go for a walk and pray silently for the people and homes you pass. Be open to conversations with neighbors. God may call you to start a Spotfire in your home.
In your church – Look for those who are spiritually hungry, curious, or unconnected. You might be gathering members for a new Spotfire or expanding an existing one.
In public spaces – While out in your community, ask God to lead you. You might approach someone with a simple question like, “Is there anything I can pray for you about?” From there, let the Spirit guide your next step.
At work or school – These everyday environments are filled with natural opportunities to build trust and eventually invite deeper conversations. Don’t force it—just stay prayerful and attentive.
Be Ready and Obedient
The most important posture is sensitivity to the Lord’s leading and obedience to his call. Some people will say no (red lights), some maybe (yellow), and some yes (green). But our role is to remain faithful, available, and spiritually alert.
When you do find someone open—someone who listens, responds, or wants to know more—you’ve likely found a person of peace. Know what your next step is. Revisit the earlier section on Process (page 116) so you’re prepared to walk with them intentionally.
“The one who listens to you listens to me, and the one who rejects you rejects me...” — Luke 10:16