#ourCOG Daily Brief [December 21, 2025]

Good evening, and welcome to #ourCOG Daily Brief for December 21, 2025.

In today’s top stories, U.S. politics are buzzing with 2028 presidential speculation, as Turning Point USA’s leader endorsed Vice President JD Vance, even as President Trump occasionally hints at a third term. The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina achieved a significant milestone, earning federal recognition after decades of effort, a move that will unlock more government benefits and fulfills a Trump campaign promise. On the security front, a foiled New Year’s Eve terror plot in the Los Angeles area highlights how politically-motivated violence can stem from a “mishmash” of beliefs. Meanwhile, some lawful permanent residents are seeing their naturalization ceremonies canceled in cities like Boston, as the Trump administration reviews applicants from 19 high-security-risk countries. And in Syria, after three Americans were killed, President Trump has threatened retaliation, raising questions about the impact on the new U.S.-Syria partnership. Globally, English politics appear to be shifting away from the traditional Labour-Conservative divide towards more radical parties like Reform UK and the Greens. In Eastern Europe, Russia launched airstrikes on port infrastructure in Odesa, even as peace negotiations continue in the U.S. with a Kremlin envoy discussing the Trump administration’s proposed peace plan. European Union leaders, for their part, have agreed to provide $106 billion to support Ukraine’s military and economic needs over the next two years. Finally, in Latin America, authoritarian leaders, such as Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro, are leaning into early Christmas celebrations as a political tactic, echoing past practices by Hugo Chávez.

For those looking for spiritual nourishment, our video features from citylife church include a “Merry Christmas! Carols and Communion service,” “Join us now for this morning’s worship experience! [11am EST Service],” and “Sunday Service | Sundays at 9:30AM & 11:30AM EST.”

Our FaithNews RSS feed brings us several updates: Smith has been honored with the Spirit of Azusa Award. We’re also seeing “More Americans Embrace ‘Animal Gifting’ This Christmas,” while a new “Foundation Announces Partnership to Support Military Families in Need.” And celebrating a milestone, “Church of God Publications Releases 75th Anniversary Edition ‘Red Back Hymnal’.”

In prophecy news, for December 21st, controversial professor Mark Bray, nicknamed “Dr. Antifa,” is set to teach seminars on “Communism” and “Fascism and Nazism” at Rutgers University in early 2026. Democrats are reportedly concerned about releasing an autopsy of their “botched 2024 elections.” From December 20th, we’re reminded that “God Is in Control,” a powerful and consoling thought. Moving to December 19th, the Trump administration imposed sanctions on two more International Criminal Court judges for investigating Israel, a move the ICC slammed as a “flagrant attack” on its independence. And on December 18th, the Mossad chief warned that Iran still aims to destroy Israel and must be prevented from acquiring nuclear weapons.

Finally, in Jewish history, looking back to December 21st, 69 CE, the Roman Senate acknowledged Vespasian as emperor, bringing an end to the tumultuous “Year of the Four Emperors.” This period of anarchy greatly unsettled the Romans, and Vespasian’s acceptance stemmed partly from his promise of an imperial heir and stability. Historian Martin Goodman links the destruction of the Temple to these chaotic events and Vespasian’s determination to bring order to the Empire. And on December 21st, 640 CE, the forces of Islam continued their sweep across North Africa.

That’s your daily brief for December 21, 2025. Good night.