FAITH MATTERS
A spiritual response to the threatened U.S.-Canada trade war
When dealing with the threat of tariffs from our friends to the south, we need an enlightened response rooted in wisdom and prudence.
Feb. 8, 2025
By Bishop Gerard Bergie
Contributing Columnist
There is no question Canada has been on an emotional roller-coaster over the threat of tariffs from the United States.
The economic impact could be devastating for our country. The fact the deadline was extended for one month brings some consolation; however, the threat remains.
Some economists and journalists have used the term “trade war” to describe what may happen if tariffs are imposed by both the U.S. and Canada. This possibility can create undue anxiety.
How should Canadians react to this situation?
From an ethical perspective, our country has the right to defend itself if there is a perceived threat. We have seen various options proposed by experts to assist our government leaders in forming an appropriate response.
I would like to briefly consider a response that is spiritual rather than economic. It is rooted in faith rather than politics.
In First Thessalonians, St. Paul states the following: “But you, beloved, are not in darkness, for that day to surprise you like a thief; for you are all children of light and children of the day; we are not of the night or of darkness. So then let us not fall asleep as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober; for those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who are drunk get drunk at night. But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, and put on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation. Therefore encourage one another and build up each other, as indeed you are doing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:4-8, 11)
St. Paul mentions the protective armour for a soldier of his time. He speaks about the “breastplate of faith and love” and the helmet of “the hope of salvation.” He also reminds us we are children of the light and must strive to be sober and alert so we can avoid the darkness.
The battle this passage of scripture references is not a trade war. It is the conflict between darkness and light. It is a spiritual battle that involves fighting against the darkness of despair so we can embrace the light of hope.
We find our defence in a faith that compels us to hope because we are loved. The three theological virtues of faith, hope and love become the armour of light that protects us from the distress of darkness.
I believe we need to ask ourselves a simple question: do I believe I am loved by God? If the answer is yes, then it becomes much easier to have hope.
If we are God’s children then we are not alone. Our loving God will always care for us despite the struggles and fears we face. The fact of knowing we are not alone helps us to face the darkness with greater courage. We need not be afraid.
The last sentence of the scripture passage is a reminder we are not alone. We have others around us who help to build up rather than tear down. We need to stand united rather than turn against each other. Division leads to darkness and light engenders hope. God wants us to be a source of encouragement rather than discouragement.
When dealing with the threat of tariffs from our friends from the south, we need an enlightened response rooted in wisdom and prudence. From a faith perspective, we need to try our best and believe the Lord will do the rest! We do not give into the darkness because faith inspires a hope that comes from knowing that we are loved by God.