"Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it." Hebrews 13:2 NASB

The apparently random encounters in a believers life are not random at all but preordained, orchestrated by your Sovereign God! Therefore, we must open our eyes to the needs of those around us everyday; family members, friends, co-workers, fellow believers, casual acquaintances and yes, total strangers!

We tend to be naturally drawn to people who look and sound just like us, but Jesus' life on earth teaches differently. Consider the woman at the well, (John chapter four) Jesus a Rabbi should not even have talked with her alone, especially a sinful Samaritan woman! Yet their seemingly random encounter was ordained by the Father and Jesus knew that. Jesus will open our eyes to those around us every day that He divinely places in our lives for a purpose. Ask Him and He will open your eyes and give you discernment.

We can always know that we are to make intercession on their behalf to our Lord for that is pleasing in His sight! We are to pray for the one standing in front of us, they are not there by accident. Do we know what to pray? No, but the Holy Spirit within us knows and He will intercede for us on behalf of them with sighs too deep for words. Romans 8:26-27.

Maybe the person standing in front of you simply needs a word of encouragement, or a kind touch, or a listening ear, listening to one another is almost a lost art. Maybe they need someone to say "may I pray with you right now, right here?" You would be shocked at how many people will take you up on your offer. Don't say "I'll pray for you and walk away, pray right then, with them.

Perhaps their need is material; food, clothing, a place to stay; "If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, "Go in peace, be warmed and filled." without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?" James 2:15-16.

Father God, open my eyes to the needs of people all around me, everyday. Help me to see every one that you bring into my life even briefly as a gift from You, an opportunity for me to be obedient and to love them with Your love, to meet their needs that You reveal to me. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.