Weekly Commentary From the Social Gospel Worship and Learning Center for 04/03/22 with Author Rev. Paul J. Bern: the Biblical Applications of the Ukraine Conflict

The Ukrainian Refugees And The Golden Rule

(Exodus 22: 21; Romans 10: 12–13; Matt. 5: 44; 25: 34–40; James 4: 11–12)

by Rev. Paul J. Bern

With respect to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, I would first like to say that I have had a belly full of those who are ranting and raving about the tens of millions of Ukrainian refugees who are entering Europe, Canada and the United States. I have certain suspicions that the real source of the intolerance of so many is that the majority of the Ukrainian refugees are Muslim. Let’s discuss this from a contemporary point of view. While I don’t talk, dress or worship as Muslims do, that does not give me license to hate them universally. In the first place, since I’m a Web minister and Christ follower it is impossible for me to hate, but I do not hesitate to voice strong disapproval of those who do.

The Truth of the Matter

What we are actually facing in Ukraine is a humanitarian crisis of colossal proportions. If a family dressed in Muslim attire came to your door asking for food, would you give it to them? Let’s not forget what it says on the Statue of Liberty in New York harbor: “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free….”. Let’s also not forget what has been taught by Jesus Christ, “Love your neighbor as yourself”. The entire concept of unconditional love and acceptance while living in peace and harmony escapes those who are hateful, bigoted, prejudiced and intolerant, but children understand it completely — just ask one. Better yet, go and ask one of the so-called “illegal” children and teens crossing America’s borders. They come in search of peace and harmony because they have all escaped from the war zones down in southern Mexico and Central America.

Warnings Against Mistreating Refugees

The Bible has something to say about this, if only we will take a minute to look it up. “Do not mistreat an alien or oppress him, for you were aliens in Egypt”. (Exodus 22: 21) This verse of scripture dates back to when Moses was at Mt. Sinai, well over 3,300 years ago, and its meaning remains unchanged over the centuries. And the apostle Paul wrote, “For there is no difference between…