Thursday, June 25, 2009

Couch Surfing

The other day, I was reading "Collegiate" magazine and ran across a write up talking about the website Couchsurfing.org. Apparently, this is a network of people, worldwide, that are willing to allow a traveler to crash on their couch or in their spare room when visiting that person's town. In turn, the person that offered their couch will then be able to call on someone else to stay on their couch, when they are traveling.

It sounds like a neat idea, but a little scary. Both allowing a stranger to stay in my house or staying in the home of someone I don't know, would worry me a bit. But, if I could get past the worry, I am sure it would be a great thing to offer up my spare room to someone. To me, it kind of seems like something Jesus would call us to do, give something we have to benefit a stranger. Unfortunately, I am not quite there yet. Sure, I would let anyone I know crash on my couch or stay in my guest room, but opening my home to complete strangers is something I will have to pray about. But, I still think it is a neat idea.

3 comments:

Mim said...

You are so onto it. That does sound like a biblical principle, but I too am cautious. It's the same with picking up hitch-hikers or helping people stranded along the highway. I've even wondered how the B&B homes have such an open hearth. Yet, that seems to be the essence of the Good Samaritan--helping a stranger.

Mom said...

Would giving someone a couch for thier dog to sleep on be a good samaritan

Nicole Shepherd said...

Mim, I think giving a couch to anyone for any reason is being a good samaritan.

Scott, I agree with you on this. Anyone that I know or that even knows a family member is more than welcome to stay with us, but I would worry about a complete stranger staying in my house.