#ourCOG Daily Brief [September 27, 2025]

Good evening, and welcome to #ourCOG Daily Brief for September 27, 2025.

Today in U.S. news, a year after Hurricane Helene devastated North Carolina, regions still await crucial federal aid, highlighting the often-quixotic nature of receiving assistance, even as signs of recovery emerge. The U.S. justice system is facing scrutiny with the indictment of former FBI director James Comey on charges of making a false statement and obstruction. This follows President Trump’s public urges for prosecution and is seen by some as shattering established norms, potentially creating a chilling effect across government. Meanwhile, in an effort to curb unauthorized immigration, the Trump administration is offering cash and other incentives for immigrants to “self-deport,” with a growing number opting to leave the U.S. voluntarily. Internationally, Russia’s repeated flights over NATO countries are prompting a review of the alliance’s defense capabilities against potential military moves from Moscow. In more positive news, the Buddhist nation of Bhutan is exploring “mindful capitalism” to address job growth while maintaining its unique focus on happiness. Copenhagen is making strides with its “sponge-city” strategy to protect against floods, while more U.S. cities adopt social housing models for long-term affordability. And the recent controversy surrounding Jimmy Kimmel in the U.S. has drawn comparisons to Russia’s “Kukly,” a political satire that ran afoul of Vladimir Putin.

In our video updates, we’ve recently shared “Who has SHAPED your Life? #shorts,” along with a special feature: “WATCH NOW: Church of God Global Prayer Center Dedication,” and a profound message titled “The Word is the Word #shorts.”

From the FaithNews RSS feed, our top stories include the “International Offices Prayer Center Dedicated,” “Upward Sports Celebrates 30 Years of Ministry Impact Through Sports,” “Group Launches AI Assistant for Women’s Health Centers,” and an update on “Cook Casts Inaugural Vision for Lee University.”

Turning to prophecy news, we’re seeing strong reactions to a Tylenol advisory issued by President Trump regarding pregnancy, with Big Pharma and mainstream physician societies reportedly criticizing it without fully understanding the update. On the political front, a government shutdown appears imminent as Republicans and Democrats remain deadlocked over funding, with Democrats demanding a reversal of legislative victories. A profound quote by Soren Kierkegaard – “When the tyrant dies, his reign ends. But when the martyr dies, his reign begins” – is being used to summarize the global events unfolding since the assassination of Charlie Kirk. This situation has also led to local concerns, with Edmonton police investigating a social media post from a drag performer that seemed to suggest the assassination of Alberta Premier Danielle Smith following Kirk’s death.

Finally, in Jewish history, we remember September 28th. On this day in 48 B.C.E., Pompey the Great was assassinated in Egypt. Pompey is remembered quite negatively in Jewish history for desecrating the Holy of Holies and mocking the Jewish people’s prayers, especially when contrasted with his rival, Julius Caesar, who maintained comparatively positive relations with the Jewish community. Later, in 351, the Eastern Roman army, led by Constantius II, defeated western forces at the Battle of Mursa Major. From a Jewish perspective, it’s noted that they might have been better off if the usurper Magnentius had won, as Constantius II was associated with a more vigorous form of Christianity.