#ourCOG Daily Brief [January 3, 2026]

Good evening, and welcome to #ourCOG Daily Brief for January 3, 2026.

Our top story today revolves around a dramatic development in U.S. foreign policy. President Trump has announced that the U.S. will now ‘run’ Venezuela following the ouster and capture of Nicolás Maduro, who is set to face “narco-terrorism” charges in New York. This bold move raises significant legal and geopolitical questions for the Western Hemisphere and serves as a warning to other world leaders. Stateside, New York City celebrates a historic moment with Zohran Mamdani becoming its first Muslim mayor, a reflection of the rise of a community once targeted after 9/11. Our White House correspondent also reflects on a tumultuous year covering ‘Trump 2.0,’ a presidency defined by a determination to flex power and reshape federal bureaucracy. On the international stage, President Trump believes a Ukraine-Russia peace deal is ‘closer than ever’ after talks with President Zelenskyy, despite ongoing Russian attacks. Elsewhere, leaders in Israel and Iran are speaking of war, even with both nations still vulnerable after last June’s conflict, a rhetoric that may serve to deflect internal dissent. And in China, 2025 showcased the nation’s innovation prowess, though questions remain about equitable economic growth.

In our video lineup, we feature inspiring content including ‘When Everything Falls Apart,’ an encouraging short on motivation and hope. Also available are ‘Sacred Seasons 202,’ ’21 days of Fasting & PrayerDaily Devotional (Day 3),’ and a thoughtful short asking ‘How long do I have to wait?’ which explores themes of Christianity and Jesus.

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

Turning to the latest prophecy news, the U.S. launched military strikes on Venezuela today, with President Trump confirming the capture and removal of Nicolás Maduro, a move that has drawn global condemnation. This follows several days of unrest in Iran, where protests over a deteriorating economy have entered their fourth consecutive day, resulting in clashes with security forces and tragically, six deaths. On a more hopeful note, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk expressed optimism that the war in Ukraine could be over within weeks, citing recent events as grounds for peace.

And finally, a look back at Jewish history on this day, January 3rd. In 106 BCE, Marcus Tullius Cicero, the famous Roman statesman, was born. While celebrated for his oratory, he was also, from a Jewish point of view, a noted anti-Semitic intellectual, denouncing Judaism as a ‘barbarous superstition’ and decrying Jewish influence in Rome. Fun fact: the author recounts his father not accepting Cicero’s anti-Semitism as an excuse for poor Latin grades! Then, in 1322, we recall the reign of King Phillip V, also known as Phillip the Long, a period in which historical records begin to note significant events involving ‘300,000 men, headed by a deposed’ leader.