“Maybe it’s an April Fools’ Day joke in February.”

That was my first though when I saw the news. But no, it wasn’t April Fools’ Day, and it wasn’t a joke.

The eyes of the world (an average of about 127.7 million pairs of them) were on Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans on Sunday, as the Kansas City Chiefs attempted to win a third straight championship.

Microsoft is reportedly renewing its interest in acquiring TikTok after President Trump delayed enforcement of the app’s mandated sale, raising ongoing legal, political, and national security debates. As this unfolds, Christians are reminded to prioritize what is true and edifying, aligning their focus with Philippians 4:8.

The bodies of two Israelis held hostage by Hamas were discovered in tunnels beneath Gaza this week. The remains were identified as a father and son, Yosef Al-Ziyadnah and Hamza Al-Ziyadnah, both of whom were kidnapped alive by Hamas on October 7, 2023.

At least 25 people are dead and thousands of homes destroyed as numerous wildfires continue to rage in California. In the Los Angelos area alone, four separate fires have burned more than 60 square miles, and continue to elude containment and threaten life and limb.

In New Orleans, an attacker identified by officials as Shamsud-din Jabbar drove a truckaround police barricades and down a crowded Bourbon Street shortly after 3:00a.m., killing at least 15 and injuring dozens.

Drone sightings are increasing across the U.S., with over one million drones legally registered, sparking debates about their origin, use, and regulation. As Jesus followers, we are called to engage thoughtfully with technology—leveraging its potential for good while approaching challenges with power, love, and clear thinking (2 Tim. 1:7).

Tragedy struck in Madison, Wisconsin, as a 15-year-old girl opened fire at Abundant Life Christian School, leaving three dead and several injured, while authorities investigate a separate high-profile murder case involving the CEO of United Healthcare. These heartbreaking stories remind us of the profound brokenness in the world and call us to pray, reflect, and treasure the fleeting moments we have with our loved ones (Ps. 90:12).

Bitcoin’s surge past $100,000 is a reminder that while worldly treasures fluctuate, our true worth is found in God, who calls us His own (Is. 43:1). Everything we have belongs to Him—our identity and value rest in His unchanging love.

A week into the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire, renewed exchanges of fire underscore the fragility of peace in the region. Meanwhile, President-elect Donald Trump has vowed action to secure the release of hostages still held by Hamas, as families continue to grieve and pray for their loved ones' safe return. This ongoing conflict reveals the deeper spiritual and historical roots of the region's strife, reminding us to seek peace while holding onto eternal hope.