Trade Pact
The United States and China have a deal. While details and implementation specifics remain incomplete, both countries confirm an agreement to allow the U.S. more access to rare earth minerals in exchange for an easing of tariffs on imports from China. The deal was reached after phone negotiations between U.S. President Donald Trump and China President Xi Jinping, and follow-on meetings between senior officials from both nations.
Analysis and eternal perspective: In a sense, this too is a fragile peace—though mostly economic in nature. The U.S. and China are the two dominant economies of the world, and the recent escalation of economic conflict between the two is being felt all around the world. It remains to be seen whether this deal will be the first step of many that will be necessary to fully rebuild the economic relationship between the superpowers.
As a Jesus follower, you are to seek the peace and prosperity of your community—temporary though it may be (Jer. 29:5-7). You are also implored to lead an abundant life marked by love for your neighbor and generosity to the needy (Pr. 14:21). This posture of living selflessly for the good of those around you is one of the central components of following Jesus. It is inseparable from the decision to yield to the lordship of Jesus.
As you consider the macro worldwide effect of a trade deal between superpowers, seize the moment to reflect on how you can personally embrace the call to sow flourishing into your neighbors and the needy around you.
The following article originally appeared in Thann’s “The Equipped” Weekly Newsletter. For more information on Thann’s weekly email, click here.