June 28, 2026

3 John 5–8 commends faithful believers who show love and hospitality to traveling servants of Christ. John praises the church for welcoming these workers in a way that honors God. By supporting those who carry the gospel, believers become partners in the truth. The passage reminds us that Christian welcome is more than kindness. It is participation in God’s ongoing work.

Devotional: There are some acts of faithfulness that seem small while we are doing them. We set out chairs, make coffee, unlock a door, prepare a meal, offer a ride, write a note, or make space for someone who is tired from the road. None of it feels dramatic. Most of it will not be remembered by a crowd. Yet Scripture teaches us that welcome offered in love can become part of something much larger than we realize.

In 3 John, the apostle praises believers who have shown hospitality to those traveling for the sake of Christ. These workers had gone out in Jesus’ name, depending on the kindness and support of fellow Christians. John does not treat the church’s welcome as a minor courtesy. He says that those who support such servants become “fellow workers for the truth.” That means the person who opens the door, provides the meal, offers encouragement, or gives what is needed becomes part of the mission too.

That is a beautiful word for ordinary disciples. Not everyone is called to stand in front of people and speak. Not everyone is called to travel far from home. Not everyone is called to a visible ministry. But every believer can strengthen the work of Christ by receiving others with grace. Hospitality is one way love takes a practical shape. It says, “You are not alone. You matter. There is room for you here.”

This kind of welcome also reflects the heart of Jesus. Christ came to us when we had nothing to offer Him. He received sinners, touched the unclean, noticed the forgotten, and made room for those others pushed aside. Through His death and resurrection, He opened the way for us to be received by God. Because we have been welcomed by grace, we are called to welcome others with grace.

So today, do not dismiss the small acts of love God places in front of you. A simple kindness may strengthen someone who is carrying more than you know. A word of encouragement may help someone keep going. A meal, a cup, a seat, a visit, or a prayer may become part of God’s work in ways you never see. In Christ’s kingdom, welcome is never wasted.

Action: Look for one practical way to support someone who is serving, weary, new, or in need of encouragement. Offer that welcome quietly and gladly in Jesus’ name.

Prayer: Gracious God, thank You for welcoming me through Jesus Christ. Teach me not to overlook the small ways I can share Your grace with others. Open my eyes to the people who need encouragement, rest, kindness, or room to belong. Help me support Your work not only with words, but with practical love. Let my welcome point others toward the welcome You have given me. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Thought for the Day: When we welcome others in Christ’s name, we become partners in God’s work.

3 John 5–8 reminds us that hospitality is not a small thing in the kingdom of God. When believers welcomed and supported those serving in Christ’s name, they became partners in the truth. We may not always see the full impact of a meal, a note, a ride, a prayer, or a simple act of kindness, but God does. Because Christ has welcomed us with grace, we are called to make room for others with that same grace.