Of the greatness of his government and peace
there will be no end.
He will reign on David’s throne
and over his kingdom,
establishing and upholding it
with justice and righteousness
from that time on and forever.
The zeal of the Lord Almighty
will accomplish this.

- Isaiah 9:7

School Shooting in Turkey Leaves 16 Wounded 

Authorities in southeast Turkey are investigating a shooting at a vocational high school in Siverek that left 16 people injured on Tuesday. The 18-year-old attacker, a former student with no prior criminal record, entered the building with a shotgun and fired into classrooms before taking his own life. The wounded include ten students, four teachers, a staff member, and a police officer. 

God, we lift up the students, teachers, and families in Siverek following this act of violence. We pray for the recovery of the sixteen people wounded and for the emotional health of the many others who were forced to flee. Give wisdom to those investigating the circumstances of this attack.

Tensions Escalate as U.S. Imposes Blockade on Strait of Hormuz 

U.S. President has ordered a blockade of Iranian ports in the Persian Gulf following the collapse of peace negotiations over the weekend. The move comes as a response to Iran’s ongoing maritime restrictions, effectively halting traffic through the Strait of Hormuz and causing global spikes in the prices of oil and fertilizer. While the U.S. administration maintains that Iran is eager to negotiate, Iranian officials have used social media to mock the impact of the conflict on American gasoline prices. Meanwhile, key allies, including Britain and France, have declined to support the blockade, announcing plans for a separate peaceful mission to reopen the waterway.

God, we lift up the millions of people affected by this deepening conflict and the resulting economic instability. We pray for the safety of those living in the region and for the civilians bearing the burden of rising costs and shortages. Give wisdom to the leaders involved and move their hearts toward a path of restraint and lasting peace.

Water Crisis in Kabul 

The Afghan capital is facing a critical water shortage as groundwater levels recede at an alarming rate. According to recent reports, Kabul’s aquifers have dropped nearly 30 meters over the past decade, driven by rapid urbanization, a population that has more than doubled since 2001, and the impacts of climate change. Many residents rely on expensive trucked-in water or must carry heavy containers from communal wells. While the government has begun implementing restrictions on commercial water use and small-scale infrastructure projects, major pipeline and dam projects remain delayed due to funding and shifting priorities.

God, we lift up the people of Kabul who are struggling to access the basic necessity of water. We pray for all those who carry the physical and financial burden of this crisis every day. Give wisdom to those in authority to prioritize the fundamental needs of their citizens, and grant success to the projects intended to bring relief. May you provide for those in want and lead the way toward sustainable solutions for this thirsty land.

Becoming (part of) the Answer to our Own Prayers

Beyond the Headlines: Faith, Community and the Stories that Shape Us

Join a new justice education series from Thrive, World Renew, and the Christian Reformed Centre for Public Dialogue. This four-part series explores immigration, food justice, climate justice, and gender justice through a biblical lens—equipping participants to recognize harmful narratives, understand root causes, and take meaningful, faith-informed action. Learn more and register today!