#ourCOG Daily Brief [April 10, 2026]

Good evening, and welcome to #ourCOG Daily Brief for April 10, 2026.

In today’s headlines, U.S. news spans from academia to global politics. Hip-hop is making significant strides in higher education, with colleges expanding courses and even offering full degrees, signaling new career opportunities. Vice President JD Vance faces a challenging assignment in Pakistan, leading the U.S. delegation in peace talks with Iran. His long-held anti-interventionist views could either foster trust or lead to blame if negotiations fail, especially as the U.S. and Iran both claim victory in their recent conflict, raising questions about the true cost and ultimate outcome. Closer to home, Maine’s Democratic Senate primary between Gov. Janet Mills and Graham Platner is showcasing generational tensions, focusing on experience and style. Meanwhile, as Artemis II hurtles home, the global space race intensifies, with the U.S. and China vying for a permanent lunar presence driven by scientific, national, and economic interests. Globally, the ceasefire with Iran has sparked discontent in Israel, where many feel the conflict is unfinished, leading to harsh assessments of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s leadership. This sentiment of fear and distrust extends across the Middle East, dimming hopes for the upcoming U.S.-Iran talks mediated by Pakistan. Elsewhere, Hungary is at a pivotal moment, with an election approaching that could challenge Viktor Orbán’s 16-year ‘illiberal democracy,’ as a reform-minded lawyer garners support from young voters.

On the video front, the latest uploads include ‘Azusa 120 Day One Highlights,’ ‘The Spirit of God is moving at Azusa 120!,’ and ‘Welcome to Azusa 120.’

From our FaithNews RSS feed, we learn of the passing of Robert White, Former General Overseer. Other important updates include a Church Planting Intensive currently in session, the ‘Jesus Wells’ Campaign’s focus on the ‘World’s Thirstiest Communities,’ and a ministry winning ‘Best Children’s Feature’ at the Movieguide® Awards.

Now for the latest in prophecy news. We’ve seen several significant developments this week. Reza Pahlavi, Iran’s former crown prince, shared at Liberty University that Christianity is experiencing a secret, underground explosion in his home country. This comes amidst reports that the U.S. has ‘flattened’ Iran’s defense industry and military capabilities through what was described as ‘Operation Epic Fury.’ Looking ahead, President Trump reportedly agreed to a two-week ceasefire if Iran opens the Strait of Hormuz, a decision made after talks with Pakistani officials. And in Ukraine, President Zelenskyy has put forward a proposal for a ceasefire on attacks against the energy sector, contingent on Russia’s willingness to reciprocate.

And finally, in Jewish history, we look at events occurring on April 11th. In 145 AD, Septimius Severus was born. This Roman emperor was notable for treating Jews relatively well, even allowing them to hold public office and be exempt from formalities contrary to Judaism, although he did not permit conversion. Moving to 399, a Roman law was put into effect to stop emissaries from collecting donations for the nasi, referring to it as an ‘iniquitous tribute.’ And in 491, Anastasius I began his reign as the Byzantine Emperor.