April 29, 2024


April 29, 2024

“The point of Christianity isn't to go to heaven when you die. It's to bring heaven to earth.”

NT Wright

March Inflation Report

March data shows inflation continues to be a problem, with no signs of slowing down soon. The core inflation rate, which excludes food and energy costs and is closely watched by the Federal Reserve, stood at 2.8% from last year, a bit higher than experts predicted. Overall, including food and energy, inflation was at 2.7%.

Despite these numbers, the impact on financial markets was minimal, with a slight drop in Treasury yields. On the consumer side, spending increased by 0.8%, showing that people are still buying despite higher prices. However, to keep up with spending, many are using their savings, leading to a decrease in personal savings rates.

This ongoing high inflation means the Federal Reserve might hold off on reducing interest rates as they wait for clearer signs of economic improvement or further challenges. With inflation staying above their ideal target of 2% for three years, Fed officials are being very careful about their next steps in managing the economy.

Inflation can certainly be a cause for concern as the rising costs of goods and services impact our finances and budgets. However, as Christians, we can view the challenges of inflation through the lens of eternal truth found in Scripture. 

  • God is our provider (Matthew 6:25-27), and we can trust Him even when money loses some of its value (Proverbs 23:5).

  • Life is found in Christ, not in the abundance of riches or material things (Luke 12:15).

  • We should not be anxious about anything but, through prayer and supplication, take all worries to the Lord (Philippians 4:6) and seek His kingdom first (Matthew 6:33).

  • The devaluing of the American dollar should continue to remind us that our hope does not lie in the strength of the US but in the finished work of the cross (Psalm 20:7). While we should seek the welfare of America (Jeremiah 29:7), we are ultimately citizens of heaven, which cannot be devalued or diminished (Philippians 3:20).

Ultimately, Christ is enough for us, no matter our economic circumstances. We can remain joyful and content, trusting that our God shall supply all our needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19).

By: Cooper Wagner

College’s Disciplinary Action

College campuses become battlegrounds as protests against the Israel-Hamas conflict escalate, sparking a contentious debate over amnesty. Northeastern University and Columbia witnessed police intervention, leading to suspension and legal woes for students. The call for leniency intensifies amidst concerns over tuition, legal charges, grades, and graduation prospects. While universities struggle to maintain order, some argue for punitive measures to deter further unrest. Faculty support amplifies the demand for amnesty, while Vanderbilt University's expulsion of demonstrators draws criticism. Balancing free speech with disciplinary action poses a challenge for institutions.

Convictions should not be subject to consequences, but criminal behavior must be. Those willing to live out their convictions (which should be all of us) need to fully "count the cost" before they set out on their endeavors (Luke 14:28-29). Not only should we heed Christ's words to count the cost, but we should seek to imitate Christ in loving both our neighbors and enemies as we do it (Ephesians 5:1-2, Matthew 5:43). The way many of the protesters conducted themselves, their cry for amnesty despite their actions, and the terrorist groups and mindsets they are advocating for fall short of this standard. May God be merciful to them even while we should hope they face appropriate consequences for their actions and advocacy (Acts 3:19). 

We all should have hills we are willing to die on, but we have to make sure those "hills" don't contradict the commands of the One who died on Calvary's hill for us (Luke 23:33). His death on that hill resulted in reconciliation, redemption, and restoration (Romans 5:10, Ephesians 1:7, 1 Peter 5:10), and we should make sure what we advocate for has a similar aim (John 13:15).

 By: Jamie Wilder

Nationwide Tornadoes

A series of tornadoes struck Oklahoma yesterday, claiming four lives, including that of an infant, and leaving thousands without power. Sulphur, a town of about 5,000 people, bore the brunt of the devastation, with numerous buildings destroyed and over 30 injuries reported. The severe weather also caused havoc in other states, including Iowa and Nebraska, prompting state and federal responses to aid affected communities.

When storms come, and they will (James 1:2), it is the privilege and calling of the church to step up and act (1 John 3:17-18). In moments like these, “charity” acts as a vehicle for the gospel; aid like shelter, food, clothing, and emotional support brings “Sunday service” to the hearts and homes of those who would never step foot inside a church (1 Peter 3:15). May we all be encouraged to leverage what time, money, and resources we can to love our neighbors in need (Matthew 22:39). Jesus is the ultimate source of hope and healing, and though we believe it hurts the heart of God when any of his children endure the brokenness of creation (Romans 8:19-20, Psalm 34:18, 2 Peter 3:9), we know that he is in the business of using for good what the enemy intended for evil (Genesis 50:20, Romans 8:28) your Gospel-inspired charity and evangelism may be that good today. 

 By: Kirby Mankin

Other news you should know

🏈 The 2024 NFL Draft is complete. How'd your team do?

🏳 On This Day: The German armed forces in Italy surrendered to the allies. 

🍎 Don't mess with Tennessee teachers.

🚫 Campus protests go on. 

🇺🇸 Biden had some Trump correspondents dinner quips. 

🐾 South Dakota Governor “Old Yellers” family dog.

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