#ourCOG Daily Brief [September 29, 2025]

Good evening, and welcome to #ourCOG Daily Brief for September 29, 2025.

We begin with a look at today’s top stories from the U.S. and around the globe. In the U.S., a potential government shutdown looms large, with the Trump administration indicating it might use the event to fire federal employees if a deal isn’t reached by Tuesday night. Meanwhile, Russia’s repeated flights over NATO countries are prompting a review of defense strategies in Europe. The one-year anniversary of Hurricane Helene in North Carolina is also being marked, with many still awaiting federal aid despite signs of recovery. Domestically, the indictment of former FBI director James Comey is seen as shattering norms of the U.S. justice system, as President Trump maintains he is seeking justice. And on immigration, the administration is offering incentives for unauthorized immigrants to “self-deport,” with a growing number opting to leave. Internationally, a U.S. immigration raid on a Hyundai factory in Georgia has strained U.S.-South Korean relations, amplifying frustration from Seoul. In France, a Paris suburb is still healing two decades after two boys died fleeing police, an event that continues to inspire immigrant youth. Finally, the Buddhist nation of Bhutan is experimenting with “mindful capitalism” as it seeks to create jobs without sacrificing its focus on happiness.

Turning to our latest videos, you can find insights into “Healthy Waiting,” a powerful message from Perry Stone titled “God Told Me This Is About To Happen!”, and a discussion on “Doing Things God’s Way.”

From the FaithNews RSS feed, recent headlines include the dedication of an International Offices Prayer Center, Upward Sports celebrating 30 years of ministry impact through sports, a group launching an AI Assistant for Women’s Health Centers, and Cook casting an inaugural vision for Lee University.

In prophecy news, Iran has condemned the “unjustifiable” reinstatement of United Nations sanctions following the collapse of talks with Western powers and recent strikes on its nuclear sites. There’s also continued speculation surrounding the U.S. Gaza Plan, with President Trump signaling optimism and reports indicating that Tony Blair, with powerful backing from Gulf leaders and Jared Kushner, could be a key figure in running Gaza. We’re also seeing reports on President Trump’s Tylenol advisory during pregnancy sparking an “apoplectic response” from pharmaceutical companies and physician societies, and the ongoing government funding debate, where Democrats are reportedly demanding concessions to avoid a shutdown.

Finally, in Jewish history, we remember Rabbi Akiva, who passed away on September 30, 132 C.E., the 10th of Tishrei. Born in 50 C.E., just two decades before the destruction of the Second Temple, Rabbi Akiva transitioned from an unlearned shepherd at age 40 to become one of the greatest Mishnaic authors. His life is filled with romantic tales, and he is famously mentioned in the Haggadah. He notably supported Bar Kochba’s revolt against Roman religious oppression and was subsequently executed by the Romans, becoming one of the Ten Martyrs memorialized during the High Holidays. It is said that as he was tortured, he began reciting the Shema, his life ending as he reached its powerful conclusion.

That’s your #ourCOG Daily Brief for this evening. Thank you for joining us.