Ministering to International Students

Hundreds of international students flock to America's universities each year to study. Talk about making Christ's command to go to the whole world easy -- the world has come to us!

However, international students are often some of the loneliest students around. They are in a new culture, struggling with a foreign language and often know only a few people. Some of the people they spend the most time with are professors!

Did you know that it is estimated that less than 10% of international students in America ever see the inside of an American home? If they do get a chance to visit an American family, they often mention it as one of the highlights of their entire visit.

Our Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday season offer a tremendous opportunity for us to host an international student or family for a holiday meal. Since school is not in session, they have little or nothing to do. They would love to join your family for a holiday meal. And of course, they would love to hear the "reason for the season," as well.

You do not have to invite them for Thanksgiving day or Christmas day itself. Perhaps a day or two earlier or later would fit better with your schedule. They will be thrilled you have cared enough to include them.

You can begin to develop a relationship that could literally change lives around the world. As an added bonus, you and your family will have a wonderful time.

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: Invite an international grad student family to have a Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner with your family during the holidays.

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