The World Comes to Us

The past several years I have used the Monday before Thanksgiving to write an MMM on the topic of internationals studying here in the United States. I have mentioned the tens of thousands of students who come to us each year. They are the very best of the best from their country. They will be in top leadership positions in their country when they return. They will be the cream of industry, agriculture, business, politics, teaching, banking and every other discipline.

And they have come to us! They are eager to learn about the American culture, be involved with an American family, and especially to make American friends. However, they often don't feel comfortable taking the first steps. If you have ever lived in another country for any period of time, you will understand the feelings of loneliness, isolation and just a little fear of making a fool of yourself.

The holiday seasons offer a wonderful opportunity to bridge some cultural differences and establish friendships with one of the internationals we see around us all the time. They are eager to establish these relationships if we will just take that first step and invite them. Imagine this - over 85% of internationals living here in the United States never see the inside of an American home! Almost 100% would if they were asked.

They would be thrilled to be invited over for a simple dinner where you could take a few minutes to share with them about our holidays and what they mean. It could be the start of a life-long friendship that could really make a difference. If you have children at home, it can be a wonderful learning experience about another culture. It also offers your spouse a chance to see some of the people you rub shoulders with everyday.

Have a blessed holiday season. Be a blessing and allow others to be a blessing to you and your family.

Scripture: Matthew 25:35 -- "For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in."

Action Point: Pray for those internationals you personally know around you. Consider inviting one or more of them to your home for a meal.

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