Last Thanksgiving, we were presented with an amazing opportunity.  Seven visitors from a very closed country were visiting Charlotte on official business, and expressed a desire to experience a traditional American Thanksgiving.   When Marla and I heard that, our first thought was how difficult and stressful the holiday would become if we hosted them.  But then we thought about how, in their home country, they had zero chance of ever hearing the Gospel.  It simply is not allowed.  If they were ever going to hear, it would have to be now.  That thought was so compelling, we accepted.   Seven guests from a very different culture, plus their two chaperones.

We are very comfortable with people from other cultures, having travelled a lot.  But we were apprehensive.  We didn’t know these people and had no idea what to expect.

It turned out to be an awesome experience.  Our guests were charming, and very appreciative for the invitation.  Before we ate, I explained the Christian origins of our nation and the first Thanksgivings.  Our guests were very interested.  They even directed the discussion towards spiritual subjects during dinner.  Before dessert, I shared a clear Gospel message.

No one made a public declaration of faith.  Even if they had wanted to, it would not have been possible among their peers.  But for one evening, we had the opportunity to show sacrificial love, and share good food, gracious conversation, and the Best News in the Whole World.

They heard.  They experienced Jesus’ unconditional love from one family who loves Him.  We’ll keep praying for our new friends, and the Holy Spirit will take it from here.

Such people are all around us, even in America.  You don’t have to go overseas.

We need to care about them enough to strike up a conversation with them.  To listen.  To become their friend.  To share life with them.  To earn the right to be heard.

Because everyone deserves a chance to hear.