#ourCOG Daily Brief [December 9, 2025]

Good evening, and welcome to #ourCOG Daily Brief for December 9, 2025.

In today’s U.S. headlines, we’re tracking President Trump’s expanded use of pardon power in his second term, which critics fear could pose a threat to democracy. On a more positive note, the U.S. is on track for a 20-year low in mass killings, including deadly shootings, with prevention programs and community health initiatives potentially playing a significant role. We’re also looking at military protocol, specifically how troops discern the legality of orders and when to push back, especially relevant amid recent drug boat attacks. Furthermore, President Trump is reportedly aiming to overturn a nearly century-old Supreme Court precedent that limits a president’s ability to fire heads of independent federal agencies. And in education, San Francisco is tackling the shortage of early childhood educators with an innovative apprenticeship model, simultaneously boosting teaching ranks and improving access to childcare. Around the world, there’s growing concern over surging West Bank settler violence, which Israeli descriptions are increasingly labeling “Jewish terrorism.” Despite a plurality of Israelis wanting tougher action, Prime Minister Netanyahu has not reined in the violence, given the settlers’ strong allies in government. In the Himalayas, a unique group of “astro-ambassadors” are both making a living from the night sky and protecting India’s first dark-sky reserve, bridging science with tradition. Finally, President Trump’s recent disparaging remarks about Somalia are drawing criticism for playing into stereotypes and obscuring the nation’s critical role in U.S. counterterrorism efforts.

From our video library, we have some thought-provoking content: a “Parenting Communication Tip” as a Christian short, a message about what to do “Before you try to reach your kids’ hearts,” and the latest installment, “Kingdom Culture 3.”

Turning to faith news, we heard that Smith was honored with the Spirit of Azusa Award, more Americans are embracing ‘Animal Gifting’ this Christmas season, a 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 prophecy news, today saw British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz meet with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy in London, aiming for consensus between the U.S., Ukraine, and European allies, though Merz expressed skepticism regarding certain parts of the U.S. proposal. Earlier this week, on December 8th, reports surfaced about an upcoming Supreme Court case that could dramatically reshape campaign finance by allowing political parties to spend unlimited money. This followed discussions on December 7th about “the fall of Britain,” which some attribute to a governing elite perceived as hostile to the country. And from December 6th, despite President Trump’s October cease-fire deal between Israel and Hamas being presented as a peace deal, it’s clear the war is not over, with ongoing conflict in Gaza and the grim reality of remaining hostages.

Finally, in Jewish history, looking back at this very day, December 9th: In 1212, Frederick II was crowned King of Germany, a reign during which the Jewish community in Austria began to flourish due to his recognition of them as a distinct ethnic and religious group. Later, in 1437, Sigismund of Luxemburg passed away; he was known for both draining the Jews of their wealth and, at times, protecting them from the worst excesses. And in 1491, following a harrowing inquisition involving a blood libel that led to the burning of six conversos and two Jews, the Jewish community of Avila was granted a much-needed document of protection.

That’s your #ourCOG Daily Brief for December 9, 2025. Good evening.