Two Years of Hard Fighting Soldiers
February 24 marks two years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion
Two years ago, the unthinkable began. Russia’s full-scale invasion has ravished a beautiful nation and has sought to destroy a beautiful people.
But it has not destroyed them. To the astonishment and admiration of the entire world, Ukrainians have survived. They have endured. They have succeeded where most expected they would fail. The light of their spirits has continued to shine in beautiful ways.
But even brighter than the inspiring light of patriotism shines the beautiful light of the gospel which has been shared with thousands upon thousands since this day two years ago. The Ukrainian Christians have been a city on a hill, and their light has been noticed. Churches are thriving in their ministries to reach the lost. Christians have opened their homes. They have taken care of widows and orphans. They have traveled thousands of miles to help others, including to the dangerous front lines and back again. They have taught the gospel with their words and with their lives.
I could not be prouder of our UBI alumni and current students who have devoted themselves to ministry no matter where they are—ministry to churches around Ukraine and even into Europe. Those who, in some cases, have sent their own families over the border to safety while they continue to serve where it is dangerous. Their faith has been an example to so many. Their faith has been an example to me.
As international aid for Ukraine’s military becomes more and more a pawn in the game of political agendas, let the church not waiver in its dedication to providing Ukrainian churches with the means to continue to wage spiritual warfare against the powers of darkness. Our fight might not be with flesh and blood, but it is still a fight. Our spiritual warriors need encouragement. They need renewal. They need backup. The Ukrainian church still needs your help. UBI still needs your help to train more spiritual soldiers for battle.
On February 24, 2022, the church in Ukraine rose up to meet an unimaginable challenge, and congregations around the world did likewise. It’s been a beautiful partnership, and one that must not cease. The war is far from over, and our brothers and sisters have grown tired from the terror. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus and help one another continue to take one more step—and then one more after that and one more after that—towards Him. And as we go, we will continue to make disciples no matter what challenges arise.
Onward, Christians soldiers!
—Brandon Price