By Jack Wyman

He’s short of stature, slight of build.

He’s youthful, informal, and seems a bit like the comedian he once was.

He looks more like the guy standing next to you at the pizza place on a Friday night, waiting for his take-out order, than a head of state.

Whatever seemed ordinary about Volodymyr Zelensky a mere fortnight ago is suddenly eclipsed by a courage that is truly extraordinary. Especially today, when the virtue is so uncommon. The man who doesn’t look like he could stand up to anyone is boldly defending his nation against the most aggressive military action seen in the world since 1939.

When the history of this momentously anxious time—that has shaken all of Europe and the world—is recorded, it will always be remembered that President Zelensky of Ukraine was willing to give his life for his people. His wife, Ukraine’s First Lady, Olena Zelenska, stands by his side with an equal determination

His country invaded by the most ruthless superpower on the planet, Zelensky has been fearless. When offered a speedy escape to safety by the United States, he uttered the single most memorable line of the Russia-Ukraine war: 

“The fight is here; I need ammunition, not a ride.”

Why remain at the capital in Kyiv? Why not leave? After all, 600,000 Ukrainians have fled for their lives.

Why would the number one target of Vladimir Putin stay in maximum danger?

“We are not putting down arms,” Zelensky answered. “We will be defending our country, because our weapon is truth, and our truth is that this is our land, our country, our children, and we will defend all of this.”

In the face of insurmountable odds, outnumbered and outflanked, staring down the ravenous Russian bear, the president had this message for his besieged countrymen:

“I am here.” Still in the capital. Russian tanks and soldiers were closing in. He added: “That is it. That's all I wanted to tell you. Glory to Ukraine.”

Zelensky soldiers on. So do his people. The world watches. He’s a fighter. He’s an underdog. The world loves both. Putin hasn’t found this brazenly bullying invasion as easy as he had originally figured.

He’s always wanted Ukraine. It would be the first step in reestablishing the glory of the former Soviet Union. This has been Putin’s grand design. To dominate Europe and push the United States off the world stage.

Sanctions have slowed him, but perhaps not as much as the surprisingly strong and resourceful resistance of the Ukrainians. They’re not going down without a fight. Those who have never handled a gun are arming themselves and taking to the streets. They’re making bombs out of beer.

They will never surrender. Nobody’s betting on them, but millions are cheering them—and praying for them.

This is a courage and nobility rarely seen. Not since another unlikely fighting bulldog rallied his nation—and inspired the free world—with the promise to “never surrender.” 

“The nation had the lion’s heart,” said Winston Churchill. “I had the luck to give the roar.” Courage, he said, was the greatest virtue that made all the others possible.

Nothing inspires us more than courage in the face of danger; perseverance against all odds, and a righteous cause confronting evil. As long as it’s somebody else being courageous. That’s an easier and less costly show.

“What though the field be lost,” wrote John Milton in Paradise Lost, “all is not lost; the unconquerable will . . . and courage never to submit or yield.”

No, all is not lost.

“Our weapon is truth.”

This geopolitical drama, no matter its outcome, will change Europe and the world. For the Christian there remains full confidence in the Sovereignty of God. Every international crisis should bring us back to this reassurance. His Providence reigns supreme above all humankind’s vain and futile imaginations.

“Why do the nations rage?” asked the psalmist. “The kings of the earth set themselves, and take counsel together, against the Lord . . .He that sits in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision” (Psalm 2:2,4).

God off-guard? Never!

He resorts to no battle plans, nor does He seek the counsel of angelic cabinets or advisors. God knew this day was coming, and He has ordained its completion—to His glory and purpose.

We place our trust, not in the princes of this world, or in their horses or chariots, but in God alone. Crises have the habit of strengthening our faith. May this one do no less.

Out of the tragedy of this war comes courageous resolve and something else we’ve not seen in a while—unity. European nations—even long-time neutrals such as Switzerland—have united to resist Russia. NATO nations are sending military equipment—at their own peril.

 In Washington, Democrats and Republicans have set aside their partisan quibbling and come together to support Ukraine and condemn Putin. The Russian dictator is increasingly isolated, his economy struggling, and his army suffering unexpected casualties.

Good will yet triumph over evil.

“Our weapon is truth.”

The free world has rallied to Ukraine and condemned Russia. Despite all the post-modern stylized jabberwocky about moral neutrality and relativism, there are times in history when the world recognizes what is morally right and unites behind it—and against that which is morally wrong. There are times, despite our own differences, when we know the clear difference.

On such special and historic occasions, the conscience of man is inspired and enlightened by the Spirit of God. This is such an hour. Created in His image, we cannot renounce His justice, nor His love for the world.

So then, “be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. And do everything with love” (I Corinthians 16:13-14).

Remember, with God there are extraordinary possibilities in ordinary people.

Pray for Volodymyr Zelensky. Pray for Ukraine.

Pray for Russia. Pray for Vladimir Putin.

Pray for peace.

“Our weapon is truth.”

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