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U.S. NEWS

Firefighter Ambush

Authorities have identified a 20-year-old suspect in Sunday night’s deadly ambush against Idaho firefighters.

The man allegedly started a brushfire on Canfield Mountain in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, to lure first responders before opening fire from a sniper position. Two firefighters were killed, and a third was injured during a standoff that lasted several hours—911 audio captured a “pinned-down” firefighter pleading for help during the assault. The alleged shooter’s body was eventually found near the scene with a firearm and Flint firestarter; it’s believed he took his own life. 

The motive remains a mystery. The suspect reportedly aspired to be a firefighter, though authorities described him as a “drifter,” and court records show a troubled background.

Meanwhile, Idaho honored the slain firefighters with a miles-long procession and will fly flags at half-staff until after a memorial service.

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ETERNAL PERSPECTIVE
The promise of heaven does not remove the pains of this world, but it does give us hope, strength, and peace during life’s most difficult seasons. Join us in praying for hope, strength, and peace for Idaho.

“Grant, O Lord, to all who are bereaved the spirit of faith and courage, that they may have strength to meet the days to come with steadfastness and patience; not sorrowing as those without hope, but in thankful remembrance of your great goodness, and in the joyful expectation of eternal life with all who love you.” 
Book of Common Prayer, page 264

WORLD NEWS

Glastonbury

Music and controversy abounded at England’s Glastonbury Festival last week.

One of the acts, British punk-rap duo Bob Vylan, is under criminal investigation after its lead singer led chants of "Death, death to the IDF" (the Israeli military) during the show, which was then livestreamed on BBC, leading to widespread condemnation. 

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau responded that Uncle Sam was revoking the band’s visas (they have stateside concerts scheduled this year), saying, "Foreigners who glorify violence and hatred are not welcome…." The lead singer doubled down, saying on Instagram: "I said what I said."

The mostly-annual concert (they’ll take off 2026 as a “fallow year” to allow the farm that hosts it to recover from the 210K concertgoers) featured headliners Olivia Rodrigo, The 1975, and Rod Stewart.

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CHOOSE HUMILITY
Culturally hot topics frequently make people think, speak, and act poorly… including us. We can respect others and represent God better if we are quick to listen and slow to speak.

“My dear brothers and sisters, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, for human anger does not accomplish God’s righteousness.” 
James 1:19-20 (CSB) (read full passage)

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POLITICS

Big Beautiful Buzz

The Senate passed the “One Big, Beautiful Bill” yesterday afternoon.

It. Was. A. Slog. The Upper Chamber endured an over-24-hour “vote-a-rama” on amendments as Republican leadership worked to shore up votes. Eventually, three Republican Senators joined all 47 Democrats in voting “no,” and VP Vance broke the 50-50 tie.

Now the 940-page bill—representing many of President Trump’s priorities, including making 2017’s tax cuts permanent—heads back to the House for approval… which is not guaranteed. The House only narrowly passed its version of the bill, 215-214, in May, and the Senate made meaningful changes, including a further $130B reduction to Medicaid ($930B total).

The Congressional Budget Office projects the Senate’s version will add $3.3T to the national debt, a figure that reignited Elon Musk’s vocal opposition to the legislation and resurrected his feud with President Trump.

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Verse to consider when tempted to feel like everything is riding on Congress… “I lift my eyes toward the mountains. Where will my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”
Psalm 121:1-2 (CSB) (read full passage)

The Jury in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ sex trafficking trial has reached a verdict in 4 of 5 charges but is stuck on the biggest charge—racketeering—citing “unpersuadable views” on both sides. The judge dismissed the jury yesterday late afternoon without hearing the partial verdict, instructing them to continue deliberating on the remaining charge this morning.


The University of Pennsylvania will ban transgender athletes from its women’s sports teams. The decision resolves a federal civil rights lawsuit brought by the Trump administration that centered on Lia Thomas, a former UPenn swimmer and the first transgender athlete to win a Division I title. The school will restore previous records and send apologies to female athletes who lost to Thomas.
 

Trade talks are back on between the U.S. and Canada after the Great White North dropped its 3% digital services tax late Sunday. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said that PM Carney “caved to President Trump,” while Canada’s finance ministry said they’ll resume negotiations ahead of a July 21 deadline. Stocks hit record highs Monday as optimism rose regarding favorable trade partnerships.
 

Bryan Kohberger is expected to plead guilty today to avoid the death penalty. The former criminology PhD student, who is accused of fatally stabbing four Idaho college students in 2022, will waive appeal rights and agree to spend life in prison without parole. One victim’s family called it “justice,” while another said they’re “beyond furious,” claiming officials “have failed us.”

Tibet’s bringin’ out the balloons (and prayer flags) for the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday. Festivities—including prayer gatherings and cultural performances—kicked off in Dharamshala, India, ahead of the Tibetan Buddhist leader’s July 6 bday. Also on the schedule: a speech from the Dalai Lama detailing the complex process for identifying his “reincarnated” successor—historically determined by a mix of spiritual and political influence.

WHIPPED CREAM ON TOP

A super shiny window...

What I’m Brushing Up On
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Nicole Pothitakis | Soon-to-be-bilingual Project Coordinator

What We’re Subscribing To
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For someone who writes about world news, I’m not always sure how to best pray for the Christians around the globe. 

This newsletter has been a huge help. 

Each week, I receive the specific prayer needs of persecuted believers—people who have faced credible death threats, violence, or been forced from their homes for their faith in Christ. It’s strengthened my own walk with God and challenged me to reorient on what matters most. 

Also, Scripture is clear that prayer is powerful and effective… and there’s something powerful about praying with thousands of other Christians for another brother or sister’s specific needs! Join me (it’s free).

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