My wife Kathy and I were invited to visit an ISMC Friday evening student gathering in 2012. Astonished by the students’ interest and curiosity to learn about Christ, we decided to start a Bible study with international students.

Our Bible study group on Friday evenings soon became just a small part of our connection to students. We recognized many opportunities to be part of their lives and make them feel at home, even though they were far from their families. We helped them to move, met them at the airport, helped get driver’s licenses, celebrated achievements, and shared difficult times.

We took them on a vacation to the Rocky Mountains and shared a wonderful time of visiting, playing games, picnicking, and biking. What a joy to see their first experience of throwing a football, sleeping in a tent, hiking in the mountains,
snowshoeing, and so much more!

“As we share each other’s lives in numerous activities, our friendships strengthen. They are more than friends; they have become part of our family!”

Like most families, we get together at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter. These are great opportunities to teach the spiritual meaning behind each holiday. A student emailed us after a potluck dinner saying, “Thank you for all your love and care. We are so thankful God led us to meet you and your wife who count us as family members.”

We too are thankful to share the difference Jesus made in our lives and be able to walk the walk and talk the talk while ministering to our beloved international students.

Sharing from Gary and Kathy Short
Volunteers, ISMC Edmonton