This summer, as the world’s eyes turn toward North America for the World Cup, Immigrants, Internationals and Refugees, a strategy of Cru, is ready to welcome more than just visitors. We are ready to welcome our neighbors and those who have come to our country seeking safety, opportunity, and a place to call home. We truly believe that this summer's World Cup is more than just a tournament — it is a God-ordained moment to reach the nations in our cities. 

Now is the time to focus on the sojourner, especially our refugee neighbors. These individuals have been forced to flee their home countries due to war, persecution, or natural disaster. In Leviticus 19:33-34, Scripture commands us:

"When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the Lord your God.” 

Our heart for the refugee is not just a social response; it is a Biblical conviction. This truth begins with the fundamental principle in Genesis 1:27:

"So God created man in his own image in the image of God he created him; male and female, he created them."

Every individual bears the image of God, and every culture uniquely reflects a facet of His character. This mission is aimed toward the fulfillment of Revelation 7:9, where we will see "a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne."

These Bible verses reveal both our mandate to welcome refugees and the incredible fact that God is drawing people from every nation to our doorsteps. The global mission field is no longer distant. It's often just down the street, waiting for us to see it. For some of us, we might already have refugees as friends or family. For others, you might be excited to become a welcoming face to your new neighbors — but need to know how to start.

To become a truly welcoming neighbor, we must first adopt the posture of a learner. By leading with genuine curiosity and humility — asking questions and actively listening — you signal that you value your neighbor's perspective and their expertise on their own culture. In ministry, this is the foundation of trust. It mirrors the heart of God, who promises in Psalm 32:8: “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” Just as He watches over us with care, we look to our neighbors with a desire to understand.

One of the best ways to be a learner and have meaningful conversations is to be curious and ask questions to get to know them and their culture. Some examples could include:

• I’d love to hear more about your background. Where are you originally from?

• I actually grew up in ___________. How about you? Where did you grow up?

• What do you love about your country?

• What is your country known for?

• What has been easy or difficult for you in moving here?

• What are some popular holidays you celebrate?

• Do you like to play/watch sports? Which sports? Who is your favorite team?

• Can you share any food-related guidelines or cultural preferences that are important to you?

• I’m looking to try something new—what’s a staple meal from your culture you think I’d love? (If you invite them to your home, you might try to find one of those staples. Search for nearby grocery stores/restaurants that might carry these items in stock).

• Remember to respect their privacy. Ask them, “Are you comfortable with photos?” (Many refugees have safety concerns regarding social media and do not want their photos to be posted. It brings them comfort when we respect their wishes).

Remember, you do not want to interview them. Make sure you are also sharing about yourself! 

The next step, invite your refugee neighbor to your home. It's that easy. We tend to think that inviting others over needs to be a large event, but it can be small and informal!  You might start by asking, “I am inviting people to my house for the World Cup on _______. Would you like to come to my home and watch a game with me?” 

When you welcome refugees into your home, remember that they may be dealing with a deep loneliness — a longing for the countries and lives they left behind. The World Cup is a time of gathering for many around the world. Especially during these global events, many refugees are missing community, missing friends, and missing families. What if we could be the hands and feet of Jesus by offering the belonging they lost in the community they’ve just found?

God has brought the nations to us to be our neighbors so that we can show them Christ’s love and have meaningful conversations. We have an opportunity to have a global impact by crossing the street to reach the immigrant, international or refugee — all of whom are image bearers of God who might desperately need a Savior or who might show us a piece of God’s character that will change our life. I know it has changed mine. 

Do you have a desire to continue building deeper connections with immigrants and refugees?  I recommend Finding Home Again, a free eight-lesson discussion guide designed for groups, families, and pairs. It was created to make facilitation effortless and meaningful, allowing you to focus on kindness while helping newcomers navigate transition, grief, and cross-cultural parenting.