Every culture has rules about what to bring when you are invited to someone’s house.

In China, fruit is often given, but only in sets of twos. In Japan, the wrapping of the gift is often more important than what is inside.

One summer, we were invited to the home of a French friend. We took a bouquet and our two toddlers. Being new parents, we didn’t think to bring other important things, like extra diapers, wipes, and toys.

All was well for about thirty minutes; then the juice and snacks manifested themselves in a diaper we couldn’t change. While we struggled to maintain peace, all semblance of our children’s sanity was lost. The evening was ruined. Our poor hostess sent us out her door urgently pleading, “Go. Just go.”

Jesus tells His disciples that they are to bring a gift to people’s homes: peace. He speaks about it as though it is a physical thing, something that can be given and even returned if not accepted.

Peace is something you can give with intention. We have to plan for it and pray for it.

Even today, before we make our way to anyone’s home, we pray that we will be a blessing, that our presence will bring joy and peace.