#ourCOG Daily Brief [December 22, 2025]

Good evening, and welcome to #ourCOG Daily Brief for December 22, 2025.

In U.S. news today, the political landscape is already buzzing for 2028, with Turning Point USA endorsing Vice President JD Vance for president, even as President Trump occasionally muses about a third term. On a significant note, the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina has finally earned federal recognition after decades of effort, opening doors to more government benefits. Security concerns remain a focus, with experts highlighting a thwarted New Year’s Eve terror plot in Los Angeles as evidence of politically-motivated violence stemming from a “mishmash” of beliefs. Additionally, some lawful permanent residents are seeing their naturalization ceremonies canceled due to a Trump administration review of applicants from 19 high-security-risk countries. Finally, following a strike that killed three Americans in Syria, the U.S. is considering its next steps and how any retaliation might impact its new partnership with Syria. On the world stage, Ukrainians are grappling with a corruption scandal, but many are encouraged that their anti-corruption system proved strong enough to pursue even the powerful. Near Ukraine’s front lines in Kramatorsk, an “Aquarium of Amazing Fishes” offers a poignant refuge for children and soldiers from the realities of war. Meanwhile, in Senegal, many women are left to pick up the pieces and build new lives after their husbands migrate to Europe or tragically perish attempting the journey.

Turning our attention to recent videos, we have three powerful messages available: Pastor Jonathan Vorce invites us to “Let Your Light Shine,” Jentezen Franklin reminds us to “Remember What God Did,” and a short devotional ensures us that “God Sees You When Others Don’t!”

From our FaithNews RSS feed, we’re tracking several stories: Smith has been honored with the Spirit of Azusa Award, more Americans are embracing ‘Animal Gifting’ this Christmas, a new foundation has announced a partnership to support military families in need, and Church of God Publications has released the 75th Anniversary Edition of the beloved “Red Back Hymnal.”

In the latest prophecy news, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff called weekend talks in Miami on Ukraine “productive,” as officials work to align positions while President Trump pushes for a quick end to the nearly four-year conflict, though Russia seeks to keep seized land. Other recent reports from Rapture Ready include a look at controversial seminars scheduled at Rutgers University, a reflection on God’s ultimate control, and the Trump administration’s recent sanctions on two more International Criminal Court judges investigating Israeli officials.

Finally, in Jewish history, looking back at December 22nd, we note some significant historical figures and events. On this day in 69 CE, Emperor Vitellius, the third of the Four Emperors, was captured and murdered, eventually succeeded by Vespasian, who put down the rebellion in Judea. We also mark the birthdate of Emperor Diocletian in 244 CE, who, despite ordering all subjects to accept his divinity, notably exempted Jews from this decree, with his regime considered comparatively favorable to the Jewish people. And in 1095, Roger II, whose reign over the Kingdom of Sicily was unique for its religious tolerance, allowing diverse peoples including Jews, Byzantine Greeks, and Muslims to live in harmony, was born.