“To be an incarnational follower of Christ, there must be a relinquishing of control, a reversal of social order. According to the natural perceptions of this world, it’s an upside-down kingdom. But it’s a kingdom of God-saturated imagination. It’s the way of the Cross.”

― Rich Villodas, The Deeply Formed Life: Five Transformative Values to Root Us in the Way of Jesus

Attempted Assassination at White House Correspondents’ Dinner 

Cole Tomas Allen, a 31-year-old man from California, has been charged with the attempted assassination of President Donald Trump following a chaotic attack at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner. 

Authorities allege that Allen, armed with a shotgun and a pistol, attempted to storm the ballroom after weeks of planning, leading to an exchange of gunfire with Secret Service agents. While President Trump was hurried off stage unharmed, one Secret Service officer was struck by a bullet but survived because of a ballistic vest. In emails sent to family, Allen cited grievances against the administration as his motive. He now faces multiple federal charges and the possibility of life in prison.

God of Justice, we cry out against the spirit of violence that seeks to bypass dialogue and subvert the peace of our communities. We thank you for the lives spared, yet we grieve the reality of an environment where political disagreement turns deadly. Grant us the courage to build a society where we can disagree without fear, and where the sanctity of life is valued above all political agendas. May your peace, which passes all understanding, guard our hearts and our democracy.

Fatal Train Collision Near Jakarta 

At least 15 people have died and 88 others were injured following a devastating train collision in Bekasi, near Indonesia’s capital of Jakarta. The accident occurred on Monday evening when a long-distance commuter train struck a stationary passenger train from behind on the same track. The impact was most severe on the rear carriage of the stationary train—a car reserved exclusively for female passengers. Local officials report that all of the victims were women, many of whom were trapped within the wreckage. Emergency responders worked through the night to assist the nearly 90 people injured in the crash.

God of mercy, we lift up the families in Bekasi who are reeling from this sudden and terrible loss. We pray specifically for the families now mourning mothers, daughters, and sisters. Be near to the 88 individuals recovering from their injuries; grant them healing in body and peace in spirit. May your comfort surround those pinned by grief today.

Conflict Escalates as Peace Talks Stall 

As the war with Iran continues, the U.S. is reviewing a new peace proposal from Tehran. While the plan offers to reopen the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for an end to airstrikes, the U.S. remains hesitant due to a lack of progress on nuclear enrichment. Meanwhile, the UN has warned of a global food and energy emergency caused by the ongoing blockade, with rising costs hitting the world’s most vulnerable nations the hardest.

God of Peace, we pray for the millions of people caught in the middle of this escalating conflict. Grant wisdom to leaders to choose diplomacy over destruction and moves their hearts to prioritize the lives of the hungry and the vulnerable over political gain. We ask for the reopening of paths for trade and the restoration of safety, trusting in your mercy to guide us toward a world where justice and peace prevail.

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!