Read Time: 4 min 24 sec | Reading Level: 7th Grade

Air strikes have quieted in Iran, but tensions between the U.S. and the Islamic Republic are still high.

Last week, the U.S., Israel, and Iran agreed to a two-week pause on the fighting that began 47 days ago. Pakistan helped negotiate a 10-point framework for the ceasefire (read all 10 points here).

Peace talks began over the weekend but didn’t go anywhere. Vice President JD Vance said Iran refused to give up its plans to develop nuclear weapons. (The U.S and other countries have tried to stop Iran from having nuclear weapons for a long time.) 

Now, conflict has focused on the Strait of Hormuz, a waterway through which ~20% of the world’s oil travels. On Monday, the U.S. Navy began blocking ships from entering or leaving Iranian ports in and around the strait (see map). Iran wasn’t happy about it, claiming Uncle Sam was acting like a pirate. The oil-rich country threatened the safety of other ports in the Persian Gulf. 

The uncertainty of the war, ceasefire, and blockade has sent oil prices yo-yoing. Prices jumped (again) Monday, which could mean higher gas prices around the world.

Pakistan is encouraging both sides to come back to the negotiating table before the ceasefire expires next week. 

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PRAY WITH US
Join us in prayer for the Middle East, confident that God hears and grants our prayers when we pray “according to his will” (1 John 5:14–15).

Wonderful Counselor, You are the One who winds down wars and teaches peace (Isaiah 54:13). May Your peace rule in the hearts of Iranians, Israelis, and their Middle Eastern neighbors; in diplomats and U.S. officials; and in all members of Christ’s body (Colossians 3:15-17). Bring evil plans to nothing and promote the good of the vulnerable, so that people from all nations would see Your goodness and submit to the Prince of Peace.

How can I model putting my hope and trust in Christ when discussing this story?
Economic uncertainty is an opportunity for believers to show how faith in Christ changes us. 

Because of Iran’s oil resources, headlines are emphasizing the very real, often scary economic upheaval caused by the conflict. But believers can respond to rising prices and uncertainty differently than those who don’t share in the hope of Christ.

Our hope is built on God’s promises, not our financial futures (Habakkuk 3:17-19; 1 Timothy 6:17). That means we can be content (and even joyful) in times of lack, giving to others sacrificially and trusting the Lord to meet our needs (2 Corinthians 8:1-5; Philippians 4:10-14). Our peace is a fruit of the Spirit that shows Christ in us to an anxious world.

What response to this story do I want to model for my children?
Prayerfulness and peacemaking.

War brings destruction to everything it touches—lands, people, governments, and economies—but our God is the Great Restorer. As we wait for Him to make everything new, there are (at least) two things we can do:

Gen Z Word of the Week: “You’re delulu if you think pineapple belongs on pizza.” - Someone who’s about to catch these hands.

Family Fun: Try out a new baking recipe together this week, like this viral healthier dupe for Snickers. If it’s a hit, flex those generosity muscles and share your treats with your neighbors!

Whipped Cream on Top: Making watercolor painting look easy...

What We’re Teaching Our Kids
How to be capable, thanks to this book*

Parents just want their kids to be happy… but in an age of anxiety and pressure, protecting them from struggles can feel like fighting a losing battle. Counselors David Thomas and Sissy Goff help reframe the narrative. 

Their book Capable offers a clinically sound, faith-informed approach to raising kids who believe in their ability to do hard things and face challenges head-on. Their evidence-based guidance equips parents to support rather than rescue. Because the goal isn’t comfort; it’s capability.

With age-specific exercises combined with biblical grounding, this book is a must-have for your parenting toolkit. Get a copy from Baker Book House by April 20, and receive 40% off plus free shipping!

What I’m Reading
The Dispatch*

When the news cycle is exhausting, The Dispatch is a resource I like to turn to. Think of it as an antidote to the outrage machines: fact-based, conservative news and analysis that slows things down to make sense of all the mainstream noise.

No drama, no boosterism, just solid journalism. With a community of 45,000+ paying members and with writers committed to integrity over ideology, it’s independent journalism worth paying for. And right now, you can find out for yourself while only risking one hundred pennies from your piggy bank. 

Join me, and try 7 days of The Dispatch for just $1.

Will Bruno | Content Advisor

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