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ELECTION

One Day

Today is Election Day Eve, though 75 million Americans—nearly half the total votes cast in 2020—have already bubbled in their ballots.

Veteran pollsters say it could go either way.

Iowa made waves over the weekend for two reputable polls delivering conflicting results; one shows VP Harris with a surprise three-point lead in the historically red state thanks to a swell of support from older women, while the other shows former President Trump comfortably ahead by 10 points. Iowa turning blue would be a shock as it voted solidly for Trump in 2016 and 2020.

It’s unlikely that media outlets will project a winner tomorrow night as key swing states––including Arizona and Nevada––are notoriously slow counters. However, most election watchers are hopeful the picture will be clear by Wednesday. 

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CHRISTIAN PERSPECTIVE
Our hope is never contingent on the outcome of an election; it’s much more secure than that. Regardless of whether things get worse or better during your lifetime, everything eventually ends well for followers of Christ. 
 
“Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in everything; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (CSB) (read full passage)

ECONOMY

Womp Womp

The U.S. added only 12,000 jobs in October.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported the disappointing figure––which is down significantly from September’s 223,000 jobs and well below the expected 100,000––on Friday. The agency said the numbers were dragged down by Hurricanes Helene and Milton as well as the ongoing strike at Boeing, which removed 44,000 from the manufacturing sector.

Unemployment held steady at 4.1% and wages grew at 4% over the last year, in line with expectations.

The stock market largely ignored the report, but investors are bracing for a big week ahead with the election (it’s tomorrow, btw) and the Federal Reserve meeting on Thursday. The Fed is widely expected to cut interest rates by 0.25 percentage points.

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BE DOERS
Regardless of whether the broader economy is struggling or thriving, Christians should seek to give generously of our time, talents, and resources to those in greater need. Reach out to your local church to see where help is needed.

“Don’t neglect to do what is good and to share, for God is pleased with such sacrifices.”
Hebrews 13:16 (CSB) (read full passage)

FROM OUR PARTNERS

Hiding in Plain Sight

Hunger isn’t just in far-off places but also right in our communities—in bustling cities and quiet suburbs… maybe even on your street. 

Did you know that over 44 million Americans face food insecurity? That’s 13.5% of the population––including nearly 1 in 5 children. Rising grocery prices, stagnant wages, and unexpected expenses of life trap many hardworking people in cycles of hunger.

Hunger doesn’t have to be permanent. Operation Blessing brings compassionate, Christ-centered relief to struggling communities.

Your support stocks food pantries’ shelves and provides emergency food, clean water, and essential medical care to families in need. Give today to help hungry and hurting families.

U.S. NEWS

Democracy Donuts

We may be adults… but we’ll never outgrow free stickers and donuts. 

While it’s illegal to reward people for voting, some companies are staying within legal limits by offering open-to-everyone promos for Election Day tomorrow. Here’s a quick promo rundown: 

• Uber & Lyft: 50% off rides to your polling place (up to $10).

• Hertz: Free rental day when you book a two-day rental before Election Day

You can also treat yo’ self to some free(dom) calories:

• Krispy Kreme: Free glazed donuts and “I Voted” stickers

• Uber Eats: 25% off orders $25+ (up to $15)

• Ikea: free frozen yogurt 

Do your civic duty, get some free treats, and exhale––the campaign commercials are (almost) behind us.

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As you enjoy a free treat, pray for our nation… “Almighty God, to whom we must account for all our powers and privileges: Guide and direct, we humbly pray, the minds of all those who are called to elect fit persons to serve in the United States. Grant that in the exercise of our choice we may promote your glory, and the welfare of this nation. This we ask for the sake of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.” 
Book of Common Prayer, Prayers For an Election

Iran’s supreme leader is threatening Israel and the U.S. with a “crushing response” to Israel’s October 26th attack on military bases near Tehran. The Pentagon announced it is deploying more resources to the region––including B-52 long-range bombers (which have already arrived), destroyers, fighter squadrons, and tankers––in an effort to deter further military action by Iran.
 

No. 4 Ohio State took down No. 3 Penn State, winning College Football’s biggest game of the week (and Ohio State’s social media team won some headlines by trolling Penn State’s no-longer-undefeated season). Unranked South Carolina upset No. 10 Texas A&M, and the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office is investigating viral videos of police punching fans at the Florida-Georgia game.
 

RIP Peanut. RIP Fred. Following anonymous complaints, New York authorities seized and euthanized two social media stars––a squirrel named Peanut and a raccoon named Fred––who were illegally “sharing a residence with humans, creating the potential for human exposure to rabies.” Peanut was best known for wearing hats and eating waffles.
 

Boeing’s seven-week strike is preparing for landing (maybe). Machinists will vote today on a labor contract endorsed by union leaders that includes a 38% pay raise over four years (35% was previously offered). The Union encouraged members to “lock in these gains and confidently declare victory.” If members approve the deal, Machinists must return to the factory by November 12.
 

North Korea is flexing its missiles. On Thursday, the Hermit Kingdom successfully tested its longest-range intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) yet, notching a new record flight time: 87 minutes. Kim Jong Un said the missile is a warning to enemies, while South Korea warned Russia may be giving North Korea missile technology in exchange for help in its war with Ukraine.

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What We’re Studying
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