Lame Duck
As the 118th Congress heads into its "lame duck" session, lawmakers prepare to wrap up unfinished business with many members who won’t return for the 119th Congress. This unique period, marked by reduced accountability to voter opinions, creates a different legislative environment, especially with impending shifts in control of the White House and Senate. For Christians, this time serves as a reminder to remain vigilant and ready, as Paul encourages in 2 Timothy 4:2. While governments may change, our mission as followers of Jesus—to spread the Good News and make disciples—remains steadfast and unchanging.
It's a Wrap (Mostly)
The election results are largely in, with former President Donald Trump returning as President-elect after securing a decisive electoral win. Republicans also regained control of the U.S. Senate and maintained a narrow majority in the House. For followers of Jesus, this is a reminder that while political shifts matter, our true identity and mission are found in Christ, whose kingdom endures beyond any election cycle.
Antisemitism in Amsterdam
Antisemitism has once again surfaced tragically in Amsterdam, where Israeli soccer fans were attacked following a surge of antisemitic threats, including a disturbing call for a "Jew hunt." Israeli and Dutch leaders quickly condemned the attacks, urging accountability. This incident underscores a long history of deep-rooted hatred faced by the Jewish people, dating back to biblical times. As followers of Jesus, we are reminded of the biblical truth that every person has inherent value, created in God’s image, and are called to stand against such violence, striving toward reconciliation between communities.
Death in Exile
Fethullah Gulen, an exiled Islamic cleric in Pennsylvania and outspoken critic of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, passed away after years in exile. Once allies, Gulen and Erdogan became fierce adversaries, with Gulen accused—though he denied involvement—of supporting a 2006 coup attempt against Erdogan. His death leaves a void for his followers, but as believers, we recognize that only the love of Jesus Christ can fill the deepest void and offer true freedom (Jn. 8:32, Jn. 14:6).
And the Winner is . . .
The election results are in, and former President Donald Trump is set to become the 47th President of the United States. As the nation reacts to this outcome and the shifts in power within the Senate and House, one thing remains unwavering for Jesus followers: our ultimate mission. Regardless of the political landscape, we are reminded of our calling to go into all the world, declare the Gospel, and seek the peace and prosperity of our communities (Jer. 29:5-7), living from the certainty that God is still on the throne (Ps. 47:8).
Israel Responds
Israel has responded to recent missile attacks from Iran with targeted strikes on Iranian military and nuclear facilities, reportedly resulting in the deaths of four Iranian soldiers and one civilian. As Jesus followers, we are called to pray for peace and for those in harm's way, holding onto God's steadfastness in the face of a conflict that threatens to expand further.
Hamas Leader Killed
Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas and architect of the October 2023 attacks on Israel, has been killed by Israeli Defense Forces. As the conflict persists, followers of Jesus are called to pray for justice, peace, and salvation, remembering that God's love and grace are extended to all.
Election Week
As Americans cast their votes this election week, attention centers on the presidential race, while voters also weigh in on key down-ballot issues. For followers of Jesus, now is the time to prepare to respond with humility, respect, and a renewed commitment to serving, no matter the outcome.
God Laughs
As the world conspires and nations plot, Psalm 2 reminds us that God laughs, knowing His Kingdom is already established and unshakable. While the turmoil of this world may feel overwhelming, we can take comfort in knowing that God’s King is already on His throne, and our ultimate security lies in His eternal Kingdom.
Google and Monopoly
In this edition of The Equipped, we reflect on Google’s legal battles over monopolistic practices and the broader challenge technology poses for believers. While modern connectedness allows us to share the Gospel globally, it can also hinder our deeper relationships, including with God. As we navigate these advancements, let’s intentionally evaluate how we steward technology and prioritize our intimacy with God and those around us.
The Longest Year
In this week's edition of The Equipped, we reflect on the one-year anniversary of the violent Hamas incursion into Israel, which led to ongoing conflict and devastation in the region. As Israel continues to face attacks on multiple fronts, the longing for peace feels distant. Yet, we are reminded that while earthly peace may be elusive, a deeper, eternal peace is promised through Jesus, the “Prince of Peace” (Is. 9:6).
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Tension on the Korean Peninsula
In this week's edition of The Equipped, we examine North Korea's symbolic demolition of key road and rail links with South Korea, signaling a departure from any pretense of reunification. As tensions rise, this is a reminder that while nations engage in conflict, our call as Jesus followers is to reach the hearts of individuals—God’s love extends to every corner of the globe, including places of isolation like North Korea.
Return to Normal
As Amazon plans a return to five-day in-office work weeks in January 2025, many see it as a sign of the pandemic receding into history. While some call this a return to normal, others believe a “new normal” has emerged. In the midst of these shifts, let us remember that our true purpose is spreading the Gospel, as Jesus foretells in Matthew 24, focusing on the eternal rather than the temporary changes of this world.
Same Story All Over Again
Congress is set to pass another continuing resolution (CR) to avoid a government shutdown, extending funding until December 20, when another spending deal will be needed. The federal budgeting process has long been broken, with spending decisions on autopilot and Congress failing to regain control. As voters, we have the power to elect leaders who take the power to tax and spend seriously, as Jesus reminds us in Luke 16:10 that those trusted with little can be trusted with much.
War on the Northern Front
Israel is now engaged in two wars: the ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza and a new escalation with Hezbollah in Lebanon. As violence intensifies, the biblical principle that the Jewish people are God’s chosen nation (Gen. 12:1-3) reminds us to stand in prayer for all those suffering. We must recognize the long-standing hostility toward Israel and pray for peace, while also understanding the special covenant God has with the Jewish people.
Federal Reserve Rate Cut
For the first time since 2020, the Federal Reserve lowered its target rate for federal funds, which influences borrowing costs for Americans. While this reduction affects financial decisions, as Christians, we are reminded that our money and resources ultimately belong to God. Jesus frequently spoke about money and warned against allowing it to displace Him in our hearts (Matt. 6:21). It’s important to view finances with an eternal perspective, keeping God at the center of all we do.
Amassing an Army
Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered an expansion of the Russian military, adding 180,000 troops by December 1, making Russia’s military the second largest in the world. Despite ongoing casualties in the war with Ukraine, there’s no end in sight to the conflict, and further expansions may follow. This relentless push for power reflects an insatiable desire, and as Jesus followers, we must pray for those suffering under this leadership, trusting in God’s ultimate authority over all earthly powers.
A Second Assassination Attempt
For the second time in two months, a shooter attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump, but was apprehended after being fired at by Secret Service agents. With the election approaching, tensions are high, and it's a crucial time for both campaigns to prioritize safety and for Jesus followers to focus on praying for peace and using words that bring life rather than contribute to division.
Strife in South America
The recent events in Venezuela and Brazil highlight the dangerous intersection of power and information control in today's political landscape. As authoritarian tendencies loom, it is imperative for us to advocate for the freedoms of expression and choice, affirming that truth and open discourse are the foundations of genuine liberty.
Six Hostages Killed
Six hostages held by Hamas since October 7, 2023, were killed in a Rafah tunnel just before Israeli forces attempted a rescue, prompting protests in Israel for the return of remaining hostages. Amidst this, a temporary agreement allowed ceasefires for polio vaccinations in Gaza, underscoring the region's complex issues of violence and compassion.