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…