“My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certain where it will end. Nor do I really know myself, and the fact that I think that I am following your will does not mean that I am actually doing so. But I believe that the desire to please you does in fact please you. And I hope I have that desire in all that I am doing." 

- Thomas Merton (part 1)

Greenland, Sovereignty, and Rising Global Tensions

New statements from the U.S. President about “having” Greenland have intensified international concern and diplomatic strain. European leaders have responded by affirming Greenland’s sovereignty and warning that any economic retaliation, such as tariffs, would be met with a united and proportional response. 

As leaders gather at the World Economic Forum in Davos, the situation reflects growing instability in global relationships, where security concerns, economic pressure, and national interests are increasingly colliding.

Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, has become a symbol of wider anxieties around power, territory, and influence in a rapidly changing world. The language of ownership and coercion has unsettled allies and raised fears about the erosion of trust, cooperation, and respect for international law.

God of justice and peace, we pray for a world where sovereignty is respected and power is guided by wisdom, not force. Calm the rhetoric that fuels division, and soften hearts hardened by pride or fear. Guide leaders toward humility, restraint, and cooperation, so that disagreements are resolved through dialogue rather than threat. Protect communities whose lives are shaped by decisions far beyond their control, and help us build a future rooted in respect, shared responsibility, and peace among nations.

Lebanon’s Growing Food Insecurity

Nearly 17% of Lebanon’s population is now living with major food insecurity, with the situation expected to worsen in the months ahead. With reduced food assistance, rising living costs, and ongoing economic hardship, nearly 18% of the population is expected to experience acute food insecurity by mid-2026. For families, this means difficult choices between food, shelter, medicine, and safety. The warning from humanitarian agencies is clear: predictable and sustained support is essential to prevent further deterioration.

God of compassion, we lift up all who face hunger and uncertainty in Lebanon. Strengthen those whose daily lives are shaped by scarcity and fear. Guide the global community to act with generosity and responsibility, so that no one is left without the food and dignity they need to survive. May care replace neglect, and may hope take root even in hardship.

Antarctic Penguins and a Shifting Breeding Season

New research shows that penguins in Antarctica have dramatically changed the timing of their breeding, likely in response to climate change. Over the past decade, Adélie, chinstrap, and gentoo penguins have begun nesting much earlier than ever recorded, with some colonies shifting by more than three weeks. Scientists fear this rapid change could leave chicks without enough food if their prey is not yet available, threatening survival.

Penguins play a crucial role in Antarctic ecosystems, and their loss would ripple far beyond their own species, weakening the balance of life in one of the planet’s most fragile environments.

Creator of all living things, we pray for the creatures whose lives are being reshaped by a warming world. Hold close the penguins and all wildlife struggling to adapt to changes they did not cause. Move humanity toward responsibility and care, so that the delicate web of life you formed may endure, and future generations may still witness its beauty and balance.

Becoming (part of) the Answer to our Own Prayers

Standing with Our Immigrant Neighbors in a Time of Crisis

The Christian Reformed Church in North America is a member of the National Association of Evangelicals, a group that represents 40 denominations and thousands of churches, schools and nonprofit organizations who understand that together we can do so much more than on our own! 

Read their statement on refugees and immigrants in the United States, and take action by using their link to contact government officials with a message to provide pathways for persecuted Christians and refugees. 

Thrive continues to provide immigration support and guidance to churches and ministry leaders. Reach out to at [email protected] if you require support and guidance.