Tariffs
It was a wild news week on the tariffs front. First, U.S. President Donald Trump announced new tariffs on goods imported from China, Canada, and Mexico. Goods from Mexico were to be subject to a 25% tariff when entering the U.S., while goods from China were to be subject to a 10% rate, and goods from Canada were to face either a 10% (energy goods) or 25% markup (non-energy goods).
Confirmed
U.S. President Donald Trump’s new cabinet is rapidly being confirmed by the U.S. Senate. Those who have already been confirmed include:
A Full Workweek
As has become customary in American governance, it was a very full first week for the new Trump administration. The number and scope of executive orders and actions was likely even higher and broader than normal due to the fact that Republicans are also in control of both chambers of Congress.
12:01 p.m.
Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States, marking a historic return to office and the beginning of a wave of executive orders. As political power shifts, believers are reminded that our ultimate citizenship is in heaven (Phil. 3:20) and true freedom is found in Christ (Gal. 5:1).
Pardons, Pardons, and More Pardons
In a historic use of presidential pardon power, outgoing President Biden issued pardons for political and personal allies, while incoming President Trump granted sweeping clemency to January 6 defendants. As believers, we are reminded that while human leaders act with personal and political bias, God alone grants true justice and mercy (Psalm 103:6-8).
A Legacy of Humanity
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter has died at the age of 100 (making him the longest living president in U.S. history). Carter served as the Governor of Georgia on his way to winning the White House in 1976.
Impeached and Suspended
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has been impeached following a controversial invocation of martial law, shifting power to the Prime Minister while the Constitutional Court deliberates his fate. This turbulent moment serves as a reminder that earthly governments are temporary, but God’s eternal Kingdom endures forever (Ps. 9:7).
Conviction, Discharge, Resignation, and Inauguration: Donald Trump's Path Forward
A flurry of legal developments, including the discharge of President-elect Donald Trump’s conviction and the resignation of Special Counsel Jack Smith, sets the stage for Trump’s second inauguration. This moment invites believers to approach world events with discernment, humility, and a commitment to fostering healing and truth in a divided world.
A Single Vote
With a razor-thin GOP majority in the U.S. House, expect significant political drama and challenges in passing legislation. As followers of Jesus, we are called to navigate this divisive climate with wisdom and grace, remaining focused on what is true and eternal (Matt. 10:16).
A Son's Pardon
The full pardon of Hunter Biden by President Joe Biden has sparked heated debate, reflecting broader tensions over the use of presidential pardon power in modern politics. While this act raises questions about justice and accountability, it also reminds us as believers of a far greater pardon—our redemption through Christ. As Colossians 1:13-14 declares, we’ve been rescued and forgiven, not by human power, but through God’s overwhelming grace.
Tariffs and Minerals
The economic tensions between the United States and China are escalating, with both nations taking bold steps that intertwine trade, security, and global influence. While these developments may provoke concern, Jesus reminds us to remain steadfast amidst "wars and rumors of wars" (Matt. 24:6), trusting in the ultimate redemption promised to His followers. This blog offers a deeper look into the geopolitical landscape and a powerful encouragement to fix our eyes on the eternal story already written.
Undemocratic
Forty-five activists in Hong Kong, including former legislators, were sentenced to prison for participating in a 2020 unofficial primary election, sparking international criticism and calls for their release. This case highlights the stark contrast between political freedoms in the U.S. and the realities faced by many around the world—a reminder to use our freedom to advocate for those deprived of theirs.
Election Impact
Post-election news has brought significant developments, from cabinet nominations to dismissed criminal cases against the President-elect. As followers of Christ, we are called to focus on eternal truths, steward our resources generously, and assess leaders by the fruits of their character (Matt. 7:15-20).
1,000 Days and Counting
Over 1,000 days into Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the world grapples with compassion fatigue as the conflict persists. As followers of Jesus, we are called to seek justice and defend the oppressed, trusting that ultimate vengeance and restoration belong to God (Romans 12:19).
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.
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).
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.
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.