What Happened Today? 5 Things to Know Before Tomorrow

Sunday brings us to the doorstep of a new week, and today's headlines carry weight that will ripple into the days ahead. From a massive winter storm shutting down the East Coast to economic turbulence following a Supreme Court decision, here are five stories shaping the conversation as we head into Monday.

The Facts: What Happened Today

1. Historic Nor'easter Slams the Northeast

More than 50 million Americans woke up in the path of a powerful nor'easter today, with forecasts calling for up to two feet of snow across major East Coast cities. Blizzard warnings stretch from Washington, D.C., through New York City and into Boston, with wind gusts expected to reach 60 mph in coastal areas.

Airlines have already cancelled over 6,000 flights, and transportation officials warn that ripple effects will continue through at least Wednesday. Major highways are snow-covered, schools have announced closures through Tuesday, and emergency shelters have opened across the region. The National Weather Service is calling this one of the most significant winter storms of the decade for the Northeast corridor.

2. Trump's Approval Rating Falls to 39%

A new ABC News/Washington Post/IPSOS poll released today shows President Donald Trump's approval rating standing at 39%. The survey, conducted over the past week, reflects voter sentiment amid ongoing policy debates and economic concerns. The poll comes as the administration faces pushback on multiple fronts, including tariff policy and international relations.

3. Team USA Makes Olympic History

In a bright spot from today's news cycle, Team USA reached a historic milestone at the Winter Olympics. The freestyle skiing mixed team aerials squad captured the country's eleventh gold medal of these Games: the most gold the United States has ever won in a single Winter Olympics. The previous record was ten golds, set at the 2010 Vancouver Games. American athletes continue to excel across multiple disciplines, bringing hope and celebration to living rooms nationwide.

4. Tariffs Jump to 15% Following Supreme Court Ruling

In a dramatic turn of events, President Trump raised global tariffs from 10% to 15% effective immediately today, just two days after the Supreme Court ruled Friday that his sweeping tariff package exceeded presidential authority. The ruling dealt a significant blow to a cornerstone of the administration's economic policy.

The court's 5-4 decision stated that while presidents have authority to impose limited tariffs for national security reasons, the broad-based tariffs in question required congressional approval. Rather than rolling back the policy, the administration opted to implement a modified version at the higher rate, arguing it falls within executive authority. Legal experts predict further court challenges in the coming weeks.

Financial markets, closed for the weekend, are expected to react when trading opens Monday morning. Economists warn that the increased tariffs could raise consumer prices on everything from electronics to clothing.

5. Iran Tensions Escalate Amid Strike Considerations

Tensions with Iran reached a new level today as reports surfaced that President Trump is considering limited military strikes aimed at forcing Tehran to negotiate a new nuclear agreement. Demonstrations have erupted in multiple Iranian cities in response to the potential threat, with protestors burning American flags and chanting anti-U.S. slogans.

Iranian officials issued a stern warning through state media, stating they will retaliate against U.S. bases and assets throughout the region if attacked. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps placed forces on heightened alert, and regional allies including Iraq and Jordan have expressed concern about becoming caught in crossfire.

Pentagon sources indicate any potential strikes would target nuclear facilities and military installations, not population centers, but defense analysts warn that even limited action could spiral into broader conflict.

The Lens: Where Faith Meets the Headlines

When we look at today's news through the lens of Scripture, a few truths rise to the surface.

First, remember that "in this world you will have trouble" (John 16:33). Weather emergencies, political turmoil, economic uncertainty, international tensions: these aren't signs that God has lost control. They're reminders that we live in a fallen world that groans for redemption (Romans 8:22). The nor'easter disrupting millions of lives is a natural phenomenon, but it's also an opportunity for the Church to be the hands and feet of Jesus: checking on elderly neighbors, offering shelter, and demonstrating love in practical ways.

Second, we're called to pray for those in authority (1 Timothy 2:1-2). Whether you support the current administration or not, Scripture doesn't give us wiggle room on this command. We pray for wisdom, for leaders to seek God's counsel, and for policies that promote peace and human flourishing. When we see approval ratings drop or court battles unfold, our first response should be intercession, not social media commentary.

Third, we celebrate excellence and achievement as reflections of God's image in humanity. When Team USA breaks records, we're watching men and women push the limits of what God designed the human body to accomplish. That's worth celebrating: not as worship of athleticism, but as gratitude for the creativity and determination God placed within us.

Finally, when war drums beat, we remember that "the battle is the Lord's" (1 Samuel 17:47). The Assemblies of God has always affirmed that God is sovereign over nations, and He can turn the hearts of kings like channels of water (Proverbs 21:1). Our confidence isn't in military might or diplomatic maneuvering: it's in the God who holds tomorrow.

The Response: What Now?

So what do we do with all this information?

For those in the storm's path: Check on your neighbors, especially the elderly and vulnerable. Offer to pick up groceries or medications for those who can't get out safely. If you have space and warmth, consider opening your home. Local churches across the Northeast are serving as warming centers: volunteer if you're able, donate supplies if you're not. This is the Gospel made visible.

For everyone watching policy debates unfold: Resist the urge to spiral into anxiety about tariffs and economic impacts. God is still Jehovah Jireh: the Lord who provides. That doesn't mean we bury our heads in the sand, but it does mean we hold economic concerns with open hands and trust that our ultimate security is in Him, not in markets or policies. If you're genuinely concerned about financial impacts, this might be a good week to review your budget, pray over your finances, and ask God for wisdom.

For those celebrating Olympic victories: Let joy be your witness. Share the good news, celebrate the excellence, and let it be a reminder that even in heavy news cycles, there are still reasons to smile. God hasn't abandoned the world just because the headlines are dark.

For those burdened by international tensions: This is a moment for serious prayer. Pray for de-escalation, for cooler heads to prevail, for communication channels to open. Pray for Iranian believers who face persecution and now potential military conflict. Pray for American servicemembers and their families who bear the weight of these decisions. And pray for leaders on all sides to choose the path of peace.

Need prayers? Text us day or night at 1-901-213-7341.

The Invite: Moving Forward Together

As Sunday evening settles in and tomorrow comes into view, you don't have to carry the weight of these headlines alone. The same God who spoke light into existence is still speaking peace over chaos, still working all things together for good, still building His Kingdom one faithful heart at a time.

The week ahead may bring more storms: literal and figurative. Markets may shake, headlines may shout, and uncertainty may knock on your door. But the Church has weathered every storm for two thousand years not because we're smarter or stronger, but because we're anchored to the Rock that cannot be moved.

So as you prep for Monday, take a moment to pray. Not anxious prayers, but confident ones. Prayers that acknowledge God's sovereignty over nor'easters and nations, over approval ratings and Olympic medals, over tariffs and tensions. Prayers that remind your own soul that He is still good, still faithful, and still working His purposes out.

Follow at LayneMcDonald.com for calm updates as these stories develop.

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Source: AP, Reuters, ABC News