#ourCOG Daily Brief [March 27, 2026]

Good evening, and welcome to #ourCOG Daily Brief for March 27, 2026.

In today’s top stories, we’re seeing shifts across the nation. The South is experiencing a demographic boom, drawing newcomers with its appealing lifestyle, though this is subtly changing local accents and culture. Meanwhile, Baltimore has made strides in combating violent crime through a new policing strategy. On the international front, President Trump has issued a new deadline for Iran regarding the Strait of Hormuz, with more U.S. troops headed to the region, while the start of baseball season reminds us of the sport’s power to unite across borders. Domestically, there’s growing concern over an increase in terror threats at home, coupled with a decrease in public notifications. Globally, a push to ban social media for younger children is gaining momentum, starting in Australia and spreading to dozens of countries. In Israel, there’s widespread condemnation, even from high-ranking officials, over a rise in settler violence against Palestinians in the West Bank amidst the conflict with Iran. Finally, a heartwarming story from Maine shows a community overflowing with generosity, as “Maine Needs” expands its mission from aiding immigrants to helping thousands more.

Next, a quick look at some of the latest videos making waves: we’ve had thought-provoking discussions on “The Blessing of God’s Face” and “The Power of Short Prayers” from Jentezen Franklin, alongside Perry Stone’s “Angels & Demons Warring On The Sacred Mountain” in Episode 1329, and a timely #shorts reminder to “Resist Digital Temptations.”

From our FaithNews RSS feed, we’re tracking the “Church Planting Intensive In Session” and the upcoming “Church Planting Intensive Set for March 11-13.” Additionally, the impactful ‘Jesus Wells’ Campaign is actively focusing on the ‘World’s Thirstiest Communities,’ and we congratulate a ministry that recently ‘Wins ‘Best Children’s Feature’ at the Movieguide® Awards.

Turning to prophecy news, a significant development in the Knesset saw lawmakers restore a power to rabbinical courts that had been stripped away two decades ago, a move that some are seeing as an echo of Isaiah’s prophecy to “restore your judges as of old.” Meanwhile, scientists in Geneva at CERN successfully conducted a delicate test on transporting antimatter, a scientific feat with intriguing implications. On the diplomatic front, President Trump has presented a 15-point peace plan to Iran, cautiously optimistic about de-escalation, especially as Tehran has indicated it will allow “non-hostile” oil vessels through Hormuz. And in Ohio, SoftBank and American Energy Power Company are launching a massive $33 billion gas-fired mega-project, transforming a former plant site into a major power hub.

Finally, in Jewish history, looking back at March 28th, we note the year 364 when Roman Emperor Valentinian I appointed his brother Flavius Valens as co-emperor. Both rulers pursued policies of tolerance, extending respect and even honors to their Jewish subjects. The day also marks the passing of Ravi Hai Gaon in 1038 and recalls an event in 1193 involving a King returning from the Crusades.