#ourCOG Daily Brief [December 30, 2025]

Good evening, and welcome to #ourCOG Daily Brief for December 30, 2025.

In today’s top stories, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that peace between Ukraine and Russia is “closer than ever before” following discussions with President Zelenskyy, even as Russia continued its attacks. On the global stage, China showcased remarkable innovation and resilience throughout 2025, navigating economic challenges and sanctions. Our correspondent in the Middle East reports on a prevailing sense of hope and healing across the region, focusing on the war in Gaza and the unfolding situation in Syria.

Our latest video titles include: “When God’s Timing Is Perfect #shorts #jesus #christianity,” “The blueprint comes before the building #sshorts #faith #mindset,” and “Hope is Your Soul’s Anchor in Every Storm #shorts #jesus #hope.”

From our FaithNews RSS feed, we note “Smith Honored with Spirit of Azusa Award,” “More Americans Embrace ‘Animal Gifting’ This Christmas,” “Foundation Announces Partnership to Support Military Families in Need,” and “Church of God Publications Releases 75th Anniversary Edition “Red Back Hymnal”.”

In prophecy news, a post declaring Christmas is about Christ sparked significant online debate among left-wing groups. On the defense front, Israel has deployed its new Iron Beam air-defense system capable of shooting down drones and missiles with lasers, while Russia’s Foreign Minister Lavrov warned that European soldiers in Ukraine would become Russian targets. Looking ahead, 2026 promises exciting astronomical events, and in a significant diplomatic move, Israel has recognized Somaliland as a sovereign state, establishing diplomatic relations.

And finally, in Jewish history, looking back at December 31st, we recall several key moments. In 335, the papacy of Sylvester I concluded; he’s known for convincing Constantine to prohibit Jews from living in Jerusalem. Then in 535, Byzantine General Belisarius conquered Syracuse, completing his takeover of Sicily. This marked a step in Emperor Justinian’s grand plan to recreate the Roman Empire. However, this victory brought with it Justinian’s Code, which imposed severe restrictions on Jews, including prohibitions on building synagogues, reading the Bible in Hebrew, assembling in public, and celebrating Passover before Easter.