International Students fall into the stranger’s category. Jesus said when I was a stranger; you did not bring me in.
International Students are a whole segment of people you can help by hosting them during vacations and summers. This gives you an opportunity to spend more time with them and help them experience the love of God. Many come not knowing anybody. My most loyal members have come from students I hosted even though I did not know them. It has been one of my secrets.
Some pastors like to live in secrecy because their members will get familiar with them but I’ve realized from experience that international students are usually very grateful. It’s made me more open to hosting them all the time.
Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the creation of the world … I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home.
Matthew 25:34,35
The native people showed an unusual kindness, for they kindled a fire and welcomed us all, because it had begun to rain and was cold.
Acts 28:2 (ESV)
Your ability to welcome people you do not know and shelter them shows unusual kindness. It is so unusual they will not forget. Do not be afraid to welcome in a stranger who needs it. You will create a faithful friend forever
Practical Ways To Host International Students
- Encourage your church members to have extra rooms if possible.
- When summer is approaching, send out information that there are rooms available if they need it.
- Do not let them pay to stay with you. Host them on your dime.
- Treat them as family when they come. They will be yours forever.