In 1527, a pastor asked Martin Luther whether it is proper for a Christian to run away from a deadly plague. Luther’s advice was that every Christian had to come to their own decision and conclusion, and that there are valid reasons why some believers should consider fleeing death and danger. Luther made it clear, however, that some pastors should be expected to stay. “Those who are engaged in a spiritual ministry such as preachers and pastors must likewise remain steadfast before the peril of death,” wrote Luther. “We have a plain command from Christ, “A good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep but the hireling sees the wolf coming and flees” (John 10:11).”

Many pastors and missionaries in Ukraine are facing the same threat of death and danger—and are choosing to stay. They share Luther’s concern that “when people are dying, they most need a spiritual ministry which strengthens and comforts their consciences by word and sacrament and in faith overcomes death.” One such pastor is Vasyl Ostryi. “How should the church respond when there is a growing threat of war? When there is constant fear in society?” asks Ostryi. “I’m convinced that if the church is not relevant at a time of crisis, then it is not relevant in a time of peace.”