The FIFA World Cup begins this week.
For much of the world, it is one of the biggest sporting events on earth. National soccer teams from around the world compete, and people follow their country with deep emotion, pride, hope, and sometimes heartbreak.
This year’s World Cup is being hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The tournament runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026, with games played in 16 cities across the three countries.
For many people around us, the World Cup will touch something deep — family, culture, national identity, childhood memories, and friendships. People who might not come to a church event may gladly come to watch their country play, share food, and enjoy the moment with others.
That is the opportunity. A match on television can become a bridge to friendship. A shared meal can become a place for deeper conversation. A simple invitation can open the door to prayer, trust, and one more step toward Jesus.
Earlier this year I helped my daughter and son-in-law host a party for international students to watch the Australian rugby finals. We thought carefully about the different kinds of people who might come and what they might enjoy. Some people really wanted to watch the game. Others were more interested in talking, eating, or just hanging out.
So we created several spaces around the house. In one room, people watched the game closely. In another area, people talked more casually while still keeping an eye on the game. Outside on the deck, there was a cookie-decorating activity where people could decorate rugby-ball cookies with icing and sprinkles.
What stood out to me was the way hospitality created room for conversations — some casual, some meaningful, some spiritual, and some about following Jesus.
There are some helpful resources at: https://victorybeyondthecup.com/
Invite another Christian couple, family, or friend to help you. Together you will have more people to invite, more help with the practical details, and more people available to welcome guests, notice the quiet person, and begin meaningful conversations.
The World Cup will put the nations on our screens. Hospitality can bring the nations into our homes. And friendship can open doors for people to take one step closer to Jesus.
Let's pray:
Lord Jesus, thank you for the people you have placed around us from many nations, cultures, and backgrounds. Please open our eyes to see the opportunities you are giving us during the World Cup. Help us to offer hospitality with love, listen well, build genuine friendships, and notice those who may be open to prayer or spiritual conversation. Use simple invitations, shared meals, and ordinary moments to draw people one step closer to you. Amen.
P.S. Who do you think would be encouraged by this email? Forward it to them and let them know they can walk alongside experienced cross-cultural evangelists by visiting: https://hereslife.com/encouragement