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An open door for ministry
September 2015

By Walter & Sue Johnston — In 2010, my wife and I came back to the US after 23 years in the Philippines. It was not easy, and we wondered and prayed earnestly about what we could do in ministry. I was age 56 then. Finally we decided on ministry with international students at a nearby university.

We love this ministry, and I would recommend it to anyone, even ol needing a ministry when they get back home. Your age is not a problem. Internationals respect and even like older people. You do not need a PhD to relate to students. Hospitality, friendship, time, compassion, and Biblical truth taught and modeled are the crucial factors. 

Before I came to the university, I wondered what I had to offer to international students. But now I get it. Having lived in Asia, having been the “foreigner” (I moved 16 times in 25 years), I experienced the feeling of being lost in new places. I struggled to learn another language. I also learned to like rice. I learned to appreciate Asian styles and to experience different cultures, poverty, etc. All these gave us the ability, compassion, and empathy to care for international students, to become their friends and enjoy getting to know them. And they appreciate it!

International students want to build friendships with Americans. They want to learn English through conversation, not just another ESL class. They want to do activities together, travel, see an American home, and learn about American culture.

These students will become the leaders of their countries in a few years. They are the best and the brightest—they will change their world. They are curious. And here in the US, they have a unique opportunity to consider Christian teaching without others looking over their shoulders. 

They want to be loved. They have needs that Christ can meet. They are open to discuss Christian teaching. They want friendships. Can you ask for more in a ministry? There is an OPEN DOOR in international student ministry.

Right now in the US, there are one million international students. They return to play significant roles in the economic and political spheres of Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. What will they take back home with them? Just a degree from an American university, or will they meet someone like you and take the gospel back with them?

Through this ministry, you get to be the hospitable one, greeting the “outsiders” who arrive. (Do a Bible study on “stranger,” “alien,” “foreigner,” or even “hospitality” and “welcome”– you will be surprised what you find!)

In the past five years, we have seen 20 internationals become Christians and be baptized. Currently, we have 20-30 students coming to our house each week for dinner, friendship, and Bible study. They love it and so do we. We also do small group and one-on-one Bible studies, eat meals with people, offer ourselves as English practice partners, help them move furniture, and meet other practical needs. Plus, 10-15 students come with us weekly to church.

For those who do not trust Christ, they have been loved and seen the kindness and goodness of a Christian witness. Maybe back in their home country they will respond to the gospel from another national Christian. Or maybe in their leadership or business, they will treat Christians in their country with appreciation and kindness because of their experience here.

So if you know of someone taking the scary trip back from the mission field, please consider sharing this article with them. Many returning missionaries struggle. They want a ministry option. Maybe this will be their window of opportunity. We love it!



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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
SEND International
Walter & Sue served in the Philippines for more than two decades before returning to the States and working with international students.