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Good evening, and welcome to #ourCOG Daily Brief for January 21, 2026.

In U.S. news today, the Supreme Court appears hesitant regarding President Trump’s attempt to remove a Federal Reserve Board member, underscoring the central bank’s importance. Meanwhile, the president’s second term is marked by a new, aggressive foreign policy approach, particularly concerning Greenland, which has raised concerns within NATO and globally, showing a willingness to challenge long-standing agreements and even attack other countries. Domestically, his administration’s impact is seen in organizations adjusting how they honor civil servants amidst staff cuts and criticism of traditional values, and ongoing battles with universities over alleged antisemitism and diversity policies, which have led to federal funding freezes and even lawsuits. This “America First” vision, emphasizing spheres of influence over traditional alliances, continues to reshape U.S. foreign policy norms. Globally, China is addressing its aging population by raising the retirement age for the first time in 70 years, a move generating “perceptions of unfairness” and calls for broader pension reform. A heartwarming story comes from Nigeria, where Osita Osemene has built a shelter for returned male migrants, working to restore their dignity. And in Europe, leaders are grappling with how to effectively, yet cautiously, deter President Trump’s interest in acquiring Greenland, acknowledging the tools available are powerful but potentially self-damaging.

Our media offerings include recent videos like “Sacred Seasons 2026 Wednesday Night Revivals Week 3 | Pastor Brad Richardson,” “Spring Semester Small Group Promo,” and “Faith that outlives you.”

In FaithNews, you’ll find updates on a “Black History Celebration Set for February 4,” “‘Religious Freedom Day’ Commemorated,” “Leaders React to Storming of Church in Minnesota by ICE Protestors,” and the launch of the “General Assembly Website: GA26.org.”

Turning to prophecy news, recent reports highlight a developing story in Minnesota, where Republicans are investigating a Somali immigrant welfare fraud scandal, suggesting it might be part of a larger “blue state election scheme.” On a celestial note, NASA’s Artemis II Moon Rocket is now on its way to the launch pad for its journey around the Moon. Closer to home, President Trump has reportedly outlined a “globalist plan” to merge the U.S., Canada, and Mexico into a North American Union, controversially including Greenland and Panama. We also hear that CIA Director John Ratcliffe recently met with Venezuela’s interim President in Caracas, even as President Trump engaged with the Venezuelan opposition leader at the White House.

Finally, in Jewish history, we look back at January 22. In 1167, the renowned Sephardic scholar, philosopher, scientist, and world traveler, Ibn-Ezra, passed away at the age of 78. His extensive contributions leave an enduring legacy. Centuries later, in 1521, Charles V, the Holy Roman Emperor, opened the historic Diet of Worms. This assembly voted to declare Martin Luther an outlaw and a heretic, a decision that ultimately ignited conflicts between Charles and German princes supporting Luther, significantly shaping how Charles would subsequently deal with Jewish communities.