Read Time: 4 min 08 sec | Reading Level: 7th Grade

WORLD

Persons of Interest

Authorities are investigating mass shootings in Rhode Island and Australia.

On Saturday afternoon, a gunman opened fire at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. He killed two students and injured at least nine others inside an engineering building. Police took a suspect into custody Sunday morning but later released him. The FBI is offering a reward for information about a person of interest (see the wanted poster).

The next morning in Sydney, Australia, there was a terrorist attack at Bondi Beach. At least 16 people were killed, and more than 40 were injured. Father and son shooters targeted more than 1,000 Jewish people gathered for a Hanukkah celebration. Police shot both gunmen at the scene, killing one. Police also found and removed bombs from a nearby vehicle.

A 43-year-old shop owner is being praised for his bravery. Video shows Ahmed al Ahmed tackling one of the shooters and taking his weapon (watch the heroic but frightening moment here). Ahmed is recovering from gunshot wounds.

Australia’s prime minister says the attackers were motivated by ideas from the Islamic State, an extremist group. This was the country’s largest mass shooting in nearly 30 years.

__

PRAY WITH US
Eternal Father, draw near to Australia and Rhode Island with comfort for those who are mourning. Mighty God, heal the critically wounded and traumatized. Wonderful Counselor, give governments wisdom to respond and bring justice. Prince of Peace, hasten the coming of your Kingdom, where hatreds cease, and tears are no more. Amen.

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light… For a child will be born for us, a son will be given to us, and the government will be on his shoulders. He will be named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. The dominion will be vast, and its prosperity will never end.”
Isaiah 9:2, 6-7 (CSB) (read full passage)

Burdensome news often leaves us overwhelmed and speechless. Praying the News, TPO’s new Sunday newsletter, offers a Scripture-focused prayer over one headline every week. Join us in prayer.

What gospel lesson can be taught through this story?
Stories like these interrupt Christmas cheer with the inescapable darkness of this world.

But darkness and violence aren’t incompatible with Christmas—they’re the reason for it. Jesus was born during the rule of a violent king and forced into exile in Egypt, only to suffer violence at the hands of His own people (and their oppressors) at the cross.  

Emmanuel enters into our darkness to overcome it (John 1:5). His mission is to “disperse the gloomy clouds of night and death’s dark shadows put to flight.” When He died and rose again, evil lost its power (Colossians 2:15). And soon, He’ll banish its presence forever.

What do I want to make sure my kids know in light of this story?
Your kids can be part of pushing back darkness.

Ahmed’s bravery is a spot of brightness in a tragic situation. Although most of us will never be confronted with a shooter to tackle, we have small opportunities every day to shine light in bleak places—a kind word for a friend being bullied; an expression of gratitude to interrupt a cycle of complaining; a gentle response to a harshly spoken word; a compassionate prayer for those who are mourning this season.

Pushing back darkness takes courage. Pray that the Spirit would empower us for His work.

• Sing “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” together.
   

• Memorize John 1:4-5, “In him was life, and that life was the light of men. That light shines in the darkness, and yet the darkness did not overcome it” (CSB).
   

• Pray for the communities affected by these tragedies to know the comfort of Emmanuel and pray for courage to push back darkness in your own community.

CREAM AND SUGAR

Gen Z Word of the Week: Light-up sweaters are my Christmas aesthetic.

Family Fun: Is cruising to see Christmas lights on your list of traditions? Turn it into an I-Spy adventure!

Whipped Cream on Top:  Omnomnomnomnom…

RECOMMENDED

What We’re Giving
A Christmas celebration for kids in need*

For some children around the world, Christmas isn’t “the most wonderful time of the year.” It’s just another day to wonder whether they’ll have food or clean water.

Forward Edge is changing that with Christ-centered programs led by incredible local leaders. They care for 6,700 children in eight countries, meeting daily needs and sharing the hope of Jesus. And this Christmas, there’s a chance to do something extra special. 

Your $25 gift provides a celebration of Jesus’s birth: a nutritious meal, the good news of Jesus, and even a multi-layer cake—the first ever for many kids. 

Give the gift of hope… and help a child experience the love of Jesus this Christmas!

How We’re Going Deeper, Spiritually
By streaming QAVA*

The week before Christmas is… a lot. If you’re craving spiritual depth but aren’t sure where to turn for resources that aren't shallow, polarizing, or noisy, QAVA is a breath of fresh air. 

It’s a streaming platform that makes trustworthy, Bible-based teaching accessible, clear, and captivating. Think: deep dives into Scripture, documentaries, and faith-building conversations.

Plus, it’s a digital discipleship tool you can return to all week. When life gets hectic, solid biblical teaching is just a click away. 

Try it free for 7 days, then get 50% off your first 6 months (just $4.99/month) with code THEPOUROVER50.

*sponsored

Curious how we choose sponsors?  Learn more  |  Advertise with us