Five tips for sharing Jesus with internationals

Our past forms a big part of our identity and the way we see the world around us. 

However, Christians, with a ‘living hope’ in Jesus, are also to be defined and shaped by our shared future. 

This future is his coming multicultural, multilingual kingdom. A vision that should captivate and define our identity, allegiances and purpose for living. 

It should shape the way we see international people around us in the places we live and study and work and hang out. This vision of God’s coming kingdom will be fulfilled through us sharing the grace and goodness of God with people from the nations around us.

But how do we actually do this in practice? Here are 5 tips - dare to try them! 

1. Pray for internationals. 

Identify people you know or see around you who have come from other parts of the world and made the UK their home and commit to regularly asking God to reveal himself to them.

2. Have the courage to show a personal interest in these individuals.

On campus, in work, on your street, in a queue, on public transport… say ‘hello’ to them, introduce yourself, ask them about themselves, show an interest in their life and backgrounds.

3. Offer hospitality and find ways to spend time with them. 

Ask them to have coffee, a meal, take a walk with you. Consider giving them a small gift or card at Easter or Christmas. Time, gifts, practical help and hospitality mean a great deal in many cultures.

4. Don’t be afraid to talk about your faith.

Just make sure you do it in a natural, non-preachy way. Most people from Asia or Africa would expect you to talk about the things that are important to you. Many are very open and interested in learning and discussing things relating to spirituality.

5. Love people as friends. 

People are not evangelistic projects; they are made in God’s image. Only God can open spiritual eyes and draw people to himself. He does this as we show them that we genuinely love and care about them, and want the very best for them in every aspect of their lives. Real relationship means you are there for people and you allow them to ‘disrupt’ your life. However, as you do so, sharing the heart of God and being his hands and feet, you will be enriched and transformed yourself.

We often hear mission talks on how the harvest is ripe, but the workers are few (Matthew 9:37, 38). This is still so true! But the harvest is all around you! 

What a privilege to be used by the Lord to see him glorified amongst the nations, right where you are! Now, look up, look around and step out with courage and faith!  

Nathaniel Jennings

OMF Ireland Area Representative