#ourCOG Daily Brief [December 8, 2025]

Good evening, and welcome to #ourCOG Daily Brief for December 8, 2025.

In today’s headlines, U.S. news reports a significant drop in mass killings, reaching a two-decade low, with prevention programs and community health initiatives potentially playing a key role. Meanwhile, questions are being raised about military orders and when troops should push back, following recent incidents. On the legal front, a nearly century-old Supreme Court precedent limiting a president’s ability to fire heads of independent agencies is under threat, with potential reversal sought by former President Trump. There’s also positive news in early childhood education, as San Francisco implements an apprenticeship model to boost teaching ranks and improve child care access. Internationally, Ukrainians remain wary as U.S. and Russian negotiators meet over their future, firmly stating their openness to compromise but not capitulation. In the Middle East, Syrians joyfully celebrated Liberation Day, marking one year since the end of a long civil war, despite ongoing challenges, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire could begin by the end of the month. Rounding out world news, a new national security strategy from Donald Trump reportedly redefines traditional allies as threats, particularly dismissing Europe and praising far-right parties.

Switching to our video insights, catch up on the latest from the Dallas Church of God Livestream. You can also explore a timely discussion on “Christmas Or Hanukkah? Which One Is Correct?” with Perry Stone, and find spiritual encouragement in the short “Unconditional Love #shorts #christianshorts #god.”

From our FaithNews RSS feed, recent highlights include Smith being honored with the Spirit of Azusa Award, an increasing trend of Americans embracing ‘Animal Gifting’ this Christmas, the announcement of a foundation partnership to support military families in need, and the Church of God Publications releasing the 75th Anniversary Edition of the “Red Back Hymnal.”

In prophecy news, recent reports delve into significant developments, including a Supreme Court case this term that could dramatically reshape rules for political party spending, with arguments suggesting federal limits violate the First Amendment. There’s also commentary on what some are calling “the fall of Britain,” attributing it to a governing elite perceived to dislike their own country. Further analysis suggests that despite claims, the war in Gaza is far from over, with no true peace deal having been established, and daily conflicts continuing. Lastly, the question is posed: is communism creeping forward in our society, and are we truly grasping and responding to what’s happening around us?

And finally, looking back at Jewish history, on December 9th, we note several key events. In 1212, Frederick II was crowned King of Germany in Mainz; his reign saw the Jewish community of Austria flourish as he recognized them as a distinct ethnic and religious group, not bound by laws targeting Christians. Moving to 1437, Sigismund of Luxemburg, known for both extracting wealth from Jews and protecting them from severe excesses, passed away. And in 1491, following a brutal inquisition and blood libel incident in Avila that led to several burnings at the stake, the Jewish community there was granted a much-needed document of protection.