Unable to wrench Ukrainian soldiers from their embedded trenches, it seems that Putin has resorted to using chemical weapons. First used in 2022, it seems that grenades loaded with gas have been used. An American combat nurse provided evidence of such use to a British newspaper.
Outlawed by the Chemical Weapons Convention after World War I, only the most brutal of dictators have resorted to such use, such as Hussein’s 1988 gassing of the Kurdish town of Halabja, killing over 5,000, and Assad’s gassing of Ghouta in 2013.
We wonder whether the so-called “red lines” have any meaning at all even when a country is attacked by a foreign power. We should pay heed to the words of Jens Stoltenberg regarding the unholy alliance of Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran in this brutal war in Ukraine. Their reach goes well beyond Ukraine, and possibly even Europe, something to think about on an otherwise lovely Sunday morning.
Prayer for the Day
As the sun comes over the horizon promising us a lovely day,
We want to shut out the horrors of the world around us;
Trapped by our desire to look only to the day, we shudder,
For we do not want the world outside to impinge upon us.
But you, O God, tell us not to avert our eyes or thoughts,
For we must continue our work to bring peace to this world.
In the name of the One who took on the powers of evil,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
I don’t believe in America alone just as I don’t believe in Europe alone. I believe in America and Europe together in NATO because we are stronger and safer together.
Jens Stoltenberg, on the 75th anniversary of NATO
When I despair, I remember that all through history the way of truth and love have always won. There have been tyrants and murderers, and for a time, they can seem invincible, but in the end, they always fall. Think of it--always.”
Mahatma Gandhi, nonviolent peace activist (1869-1948)
I will punish the world for its evil, and the wicked for their iniquity;
I will put an end to the pride of the arrogant, and lay low the insolence of tyrants.
I will make mortals more rate than fine fold, and humans than the gold of Ophir.
Therefore I will make the heavens tremble, and shake the earth out of its place,
At the wrath of the Lord of hosts and in the day of fierce anger.
Isaiah 13: 11-13