The Wired Word for 01182026 - CourtneyR.dev's 2nd Brain

The Wired Word for 01/18/2026 ![rw-book-cover](https://readwise-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/static/images/article3.5c705a01b476.png) Dear Class Members, Recent military action in Venezuela and the capture of President Nicolás Maduro lead us to focus this installment of *The Wired Word* on the questions of when interventions work, whether authoritarian rule should always be opposed, when action should be taken against injustice, and how peaceful relations can be maintained between individuals, groups and nations. ![](https://www.thewiredword.com/_img/tww_logo_email.jpg) **United States Forces Raid Venezuela, Capture President** ***The Wired Word*** **for the Week of January 18, 2026** **In the News** On January 3, the United States launched military strikes in Venezuela and seized President Nicolás Maduro, ending his 13-year rule. *NBC News* reported that Russia and China immediately condemned the strikes and called for the release of Maduro, who was brought to the United States to face criminal charges. Iran and Cuba called the raid a violation of international law. Although more cautious in their tone, European allies of the United States also raised concern about the legality of the operation. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said that President Trump is fulfilling his campaign promise to "demolish foreign drug cartels" by seizing Maduro. On X, she said that the raid would "keep our citizens safe" in line with Trump's "America First" agenda. Concerns about American interventionism have been raised by numerous individuals, groups and countries. Venezuela was ruled by military strongmen for most of the first half of the 20th century. They promoted the oil industry while allowing some social reforms, according to the *World Factbook* of the CIA. Democratically elected governments were largely in charge until 1999, when Hugo Chavez gained authoritarian control over the government. Maduro became president in 2013 and claimed the presidency for his second term in 2018. This election was boycotted by most opposition parties and was widely viewed as fraudulent. Strong restrictions on free speech and the press have been imposed by Maduro, and under his leadership the country has suffered human rights abuses, widespread violent crime, political manipulation of judicial and electoral systems, and corruption. Declining living conditions have prompted nearly 8 million Venezuelans to leave the country. Maduro has been indicted with federal gun and narcotics trafficking charges, according to *Fox News*, along with his wife, Cilia Flores, his son and three alleged co-conspirators. The case, which reflects charges filed in the Southern District of New York in 2020, adds charges against Flores. Maduro is facing four charges, including narco-terrorism conspiracy and conspiracy to possess machine guns and destructive devices. Federal prosecutors allege that for years, the Cartel of the Suns -- or *"Cartel de los Soles"* -- has worked under Maduro's leadership to funnel narcotics into the United States. The indictment against Maduro alleges that he, along with his family, facilitated "cocaine-fueled corruption to flourish for his own benefit, for the benefit of members of his ruling regime, and for the benefit of his family members." In January 2025, the Biden administration increased to $25 million the reward for information leading to the arrest of Maduro. In the United States, reactions to the raid have been mixed. A message from the General Secretary of the Church of the Brethren said, "we are challenged by this complex situation as we see many Venezuelans rejoicing at the removal of President Maduro, yet are concerned where U.S. intervention will lead." In *The Washington Stand*, Yoe Suarez wrote that Venezuela "has become a territory where anti-Christian socialism violates the religious freedom of millions of believers. And we, as Christians, cannot think of a better way to rebuild a free Venezuela than respecting religious freedom." Many Latino evangelicals in the United States have been celebrating what they call a spiritual victory as well as a political one. "God is using Donald Trump to liberate Venezuela from the 27-year-old chains of oppression," said the Rev. José Durán, a Venezuelan immigrant living in Michigan, to *The Roys Report*. This view, referring to the period of time in which Chávez and Maduro led the country, is held by many (though not all) Latino evangelicals. The Rev. Antonio J. Gallardo is the bishop-elect of the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles and a Venezuelan American. In a phone call with *Sojourners*, he said that he "remains in tension" over what to feel since hearing of the raid. Gallardo said that many people he knows initially reacted with relief that Maduro had been ousted. "I want to join the joy of my people that live there. And I also am concerned about what the U.S. wants," he said. "I don't want Venezuela, or any country to become a colony of the U.S. ... So that's a tension I live with." The Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, an evangelical adviser to President Trump, applauded Secretary of State Marco Rubio's statement that the United States does not want to govern Venezuela and said the secretary wants to help the country transition to a "legitimate form" of democracy. But Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, said, "President Trump's unauthorized military attack on Venezuela to arrest Maduro -- however terrible he is -- is a sickening return to a day when the United States asserted the right to dominate the internal political affairs of all nations in the Western Hemisphere. That history is replete with failures, and doubling down on it makes it difficult to make the claim with a straight face that other countries should respect the United States' sovereignty when we do not do the same." More on this story can be found at these links: [U.S. Allies and Foes Fear Maduro's Capture Sets Precedent for More American Intervention.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKQ82ZcUITnAmJYlC96hxF4G-2Fr5aZ-2BRmIf12zN3ewLmMUNuIP8YhemVx7FJ-2FjGvTNaLQC2yAhlJtBFQc0tj39dkFNb2RK1e-2BLcVMtyWW-2FzsFWwR-2BDJgfBiFbW5ZQyopLMQ-3D-3D26o7_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI223d8nAkFbJeBdazUfXg9sF7AIlDdtTK9HruJjYc5VeUpP7rN-2Fp-2FLMt7FhQoFU8qDmHHrToCcKtuk8BBXOWC3QKrEru7M7vZRbYpVEVnxU471pNm47rM3vFnNEtzpTbuIVZsMiXvKJqOcKhc1nvnNrZfOw0sFRlSp-2BuIkN-2B2I6-2FdzsRa8zxosjIKhhBi6JIrF47SFoFi-2FF54DxJz74Rl8A-3D) [*NBC News*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKQ82ZcUITnAmJYlC96hxF4G-2Fr5aZ-2BRmIf12zN3ewLmMUNuIP8YhemVx7FJ-2FjGvTNaLQC2yAhlJtBFQc0tj39dkFNb2RK1e-2BLcVMtyWW-2FzsFWwR-2BDJgfBiFbW5ZQyopLMQ-3D-3Do5Qn_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI8-2FMK0aAeSo1tRfV1dXuQtCyZ-2FlFJWgsczhLsnTb2sqqe8oGWynudJkxGcqQHE-2BWaKBKl0cnxc25FEecYlmxGTcqxOJaiDxMgFvh1CDPD-2BEQ-2B9mswOpb0YSkAtS96-2FL4eZjXbN2AXKbAwdIDfKTjG4k2LmYd6K7a8W14FLVwZZXlZzYKrgwyVdvW3tvPsE7q3DfMa3M7JS4VjG4aylpLqLU-3D) [Venezuela.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKQkeLop7XUqS36hZdAnBz0JVI2V6Z6z4rxpseUXCL334LvtbzAsVrpQBSspVPgDhEYrEF0PewlDnnX0wuth2IA-3DIS55_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI-2B-2F0Ndlm8l-2BR2K2U2TM45O2TYChSzSAXtOc0u3yqQ1j-2Fx1ENsOHSM92VsNLhc0o-2FeDXM6ZwhykI06l9Nu0kc-2BLLcheiChE5Wp34mZyt99IVCWrDB-2BLUOdy4CYaIAx45sl2b9eGF86b6Xaw5rfbH-2BhDCYU068aEOoS5xRcJ11SubolCytUv-2ByQ9qE7oe-2BxsI218j1IMMgI7PW8toIWd4GFAs-3D) [*The World Factbook*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKQkeLop7XUqS36hZdAnBz0JVI2V6Z6z4rxpseUXCL334LvtbzAsVrpQBSspVPgDhEYrEF0PewlDnnX0wuth2IA-3D8hM5_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI7oeaiAW6-2Bwq0kNrQnRJycIFX3CVpQj2lAdrAoY2KC51NwNk33ob1wvCMAsT5PvKRjzmK5Pl5fSy2IaO-2F-2FchEaPQ1CuHuXOaxRKu7dC6TE0wYgCPZPltqOeMxqsRteM9Fm1CFcEQquJ665EfDfjj4es4X6Gow-2BTfUYAI-2B-2B95pBTYrMCCBE-2FcqhOggNsGyi87UKbTd30cAydhtIESaE3tOo4-3D) [DEA Zeroes in on Cartel of the Suns Bosses as Maduro Is Hauled Into U,S. Narco Case.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNnRLkPfLAMpP6p3RttiMUEWezYTceVhNrD6TrYsCAJsyBwkgNWjI1hQmlZkUb1Zbv-2Fvn0LCtekJkT9CJVuRKhoK0isMKhNYdJrZLFDVFe0e1f2J_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI2Xc3FGIM00x4BzujNSJCV8smdrDvAUnZMLikLab3UEEDI-2BnGsK9p-2FDRusmUgl9Rr9bwhr0VkB9-2Bemp1pjCVeTC1iPU0xmkb0ecpdteLc9EeZjtd68DcRc-2BTbGAy2Z65AAEYqZkYT5dYWnXUCJWZ8iaPYMQ-2BN94QSqzzBoO2QVRG42XwDyWpGFjtJ2tV3gD0POCG35knjHZKwCfYChu60N4-3D) [*Fox News*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNnRLkPfLAMpP6p3RttiMUEWezYTceVhNrD6TrYsCAJsyBwkgNWjI1hQmlZkUb1Zbv-2Fvn0LCtekJkT9CJVuRKhoK0isMKhNYdJrZLFDVFe0ef9b9_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NIwTrY4GTVuLi-2BpbhT3Miu33qjV-2BiwSv9PO9-2F7vEwmf3lXwlEX1KFt-2BYBJjlxBZO7GQLb2kQUVy96iKuAgbujh5f96vbhVTGawZiikn4MPFeYlrhFPu9YmiRZjo5sgIEUmrnlqDXnOy8TTqPN6TanBw4cdyD-2FsFpayLiT-2FJx-2BxYtRDSlk-2Fvnbt71B9BPIl-2BOgwJVieoUPWNAJloXR1JDNE-2F8-3D) [Newsline Special: A Pastoral Response to the Removal of Venezuela President Nicolás Maduro and U.S. Military Strikes.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPA3KSN-2BroYXlavX53furzK7KoV5GymEOR-2BADmbk683dX6ZyCHa-2FNyV0G6tT14EgOhqNQavZf29QlFdlnhAKThNMuitSTpvh36FMa3aeaEm4UTXXP_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI0B57qNXXUBJUzu8xjKCu-2BvSbHZIZ2eyglaEmUDcyaUSR-2FL4Z0bY0-2Boie1P3NocNupk0x8eU-2FVvYBkrCQEvZNYqE-2BsyKizc6MNISdh1VPOzQ-2B0z-2ByT12Rk1JPNXAVTDplFuqKPP8jKh-2F5-2BAEun3t5SwNp3WiiyD7zVMze3qQDKUZWPvpX9ngHj4s0jPbOkpfDbvEJZ2j8-2B96vnZeRF5i28c-3D) [*Church of the Brethren*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPA3KSN-2BroYXlavX53furzK7KoV5GymEOR-2BADmbk683dX6ZyCHa-2FNyV0G6tT14EgOhqNQavZf29QlFdlnhAKThNMuitSTpvh36FMa3aeaEm4UpSNh_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI59Wx-2BTW4HBiXJNfLwLL8rsuCbZ09QYwIBuqkiP6iYXx6XL41mTUH9eb-2B-2BaWA2IucfXMFBN1cTATHT3Oo-2Fsz1FC0k-2Bt1MfhNLDSaCEsVF-2FbIgU9kZoEMDHASG6FzHmZzgq-2BpGWPzJG1WJO5kG0g7stcB6LHC80nxI7yymhpZHTI6cNf8D8jcLKYSmS-2FvX-2F0YJF2fFj19osNsXEiptHxyke4-3D) [Will Maduro's Capture Signal the End of an Anti-Christian Regime?](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJhJpzYCUVOaMJY71XTF-2BKMBYcOL7bVpIaNw4sP4mZaPFCpkulam7XlTEp7B1ifJZL86jk-2BkMZ0b3R0Pwwdkm48FGcCi1O7D9vs8W9zNSG0U2g3LUoVHyQj-2FmoHi1cYjzQ-3D-3D2vDr_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI2s-2FwJ3CQFHVCAyyIOjMyMvrqTyqj6K95tk60gGLwZ5ifPpGlVtanL7qsuuB3AynkcaEHxtvenTi8x-2BG3n7On0IOexuUnhR8Y-2BUzAM8Ihwg1j-2Bi9veMVLA77OZEUc2VMBvdU6tgAkWDP0dXlzI9sy2PGZX9TBLN20LKM4MDnWvrRLAbGrwUFGYFO9-2BAicpPQLvdSYGZHQFmqU0TLm5KKhCI-3D) [*Washington Stand*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJhJpzYCUVOaMJY71XTF-2BKMBYcOL7bVpIaNw4sP4mZaPFCpkulam7XlTEp7B1ifJZL86jk-2BkMZ0b3R0Pwwdkm48FGcCi1O7D9vs8W9zNSG0U2g3LUoVHyQj-2FmoHi1cYjzQ-3D-3D5gSS_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NIzkKr-2F4Nix9DuD-2FWD2SlhqCfwslFaLq7rd9S7VJyo9mSkY0zP6qVLlqnoUxG9mwCI2dTKq1A1UuwLvg1eX0-2B1RPPNTGmNPh8p-2BDtPmXhPCHq0pqion0QgEuK8g2205ba4Nd3FeRlIupBKhOGOgXPD0VOsEh2DG6XZWIyyQfisxZ5sgZoFx6FXpDIMBF02B1wZFPYc2iC-2FtgakS5h2VFtGcI-3D) [Latino Evangelicals Celebrate Maduro's Capture as Divine Victory.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPEm7esoCYnIQRmx1emCnobOTNawAdBHXz7b487ebhbnPDMEkU-2FDbaxnLrqDh9JUJij7lvJWGqiRaShVXvnT4ZLWV04a53lBiio5w9PJYtxuBmuAUpOw2PohY8LEXJgTVRBXIZsHDObxa74ZMrSzp2oY-3D9oTj_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI593L7vFFh6WjALhtNCliabNR9lY-2FTxVHX9p68JwBRUBO08DW4seokSel-2FbVPP-2BcMhZgDkJpBxsFxmVGSnG8gFWCq8di2jKa-2BWRB2sAPCFiZ0-2Fddi-2FufM23JOwQkz85A-2Bt0e2PIVkGTDYuVfN1kVSblqkP5neb-2FO8ZclxWdDc1X85mWEa7j6aPlOMKA-2F2b0niI5ZYwiO0T340xWs7aNHAMM-3D) [*The Roys Report*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPEm7esoCYnIQRmx1emCnobOTNawAdBHXz7b487ebhbnPDMEkU-2FDbaxnLrqDh9JUJij7lvJWGqiRaShVXvnT4ZLWV04a53lBiio5w9PJYtxuBmuAUpOw2PohY8LEXJgTVRBXIZsHDObxa74ZMrSzp2oY-3DpG41_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI-2BThBjSvtH-2FTAiayDma2randgoFGh8SJW8rqEn2Wp9uU0PHwMi3IMUXHc41ax2WJvH8y2POmHOcke3K1VDULFZ6AlVcv5aWQjkp3reaiGTkjJkXwEo1sKHVcTvu61X7xn1HNmlC-2FvuUo6-2FZ1RP7Q0MjfVm7dPh1YMoBTmpfWeF8YORHtGWNdMCsU2qiFnWuGGdkbKnE-2FNvVcDCmhgwqN-2FEc-3D) [After Maduro, Venezuelan Christians Pray for End to U.S. Imperialism.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPL6ZCKOMVHIv5bNa8fAZTFHLs3UoUob4pZAy1VrquyBeQTcnQLqvrDRVEt-2BZR6pb-2FxtvXN0jIqvF9Oo5as7e6yQYkZGIZhq16OAsUAd2hV1HXWVE52IhOqNM15aBBhAVNw-3D-3D1jK4_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NIz0xW5mWz7tYiVXlzIp7eIoTomB-2Bs1aRgZUtQy7j17GgjH21For-2FI39A67XG2aTk9SDiCW1UZpTZFnVOylZ67R94aKUMGiYw8jPhEqRwxhV1tBzUNL7qal7nUpVmQ9fm1p4LkTZwF-2FnDrqTXjUK35XbRgoknBmxNklodA9UEUc8iZsw1Yhu-2F0rz71HW43DEW8hBDFk-2Bp23pTjK0emhUmxI4-3D) [*Sojourners*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPL6ZCKOMVHIv5bNa8fAZTFHLs3UoUob4pZAy1VrquyBeQTcnQLqvrDRVEt-2BZR6pb-2FxtvXN0jIqvF9Oo5as7e6yQYkZGIZhq16OAsUAd2hV1HXWVE52IhOqNM15aBBhAVNw-3D-3DT524_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI5YIOxyA-2FlLejvN1XXb2SzLOsmwkqtGvWXeko1fYvvqbHb4RoGCJySdPk-2BQrXQZ2bpQdbv-2FLq5x4j3MegqMkIsfc9OkDuummR5L-2FPC7YrX2T-2FEXU1ouBpAEyCC-2BobvCjbP7Z49VgnY41MamniJfjRqnHY9hXhN3HYk-2B8vmTqtQKM6GadOKuUBry4hzR52MqU1p-2Fbzqnp8zSLhH6IlLSpsV0-3D) [Kaine Statement on Trump Administration's Unauthorized Military Attack on Venezuela.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPHlQpQxQm0s3n0-2B8iwIT-2B36H5qSRKe6mlQF6XYfZfD8DL6UXAhBBdX6pv1Z78iTaQw56u19I8ycqyJJTFZSE-2BcQ5ci43endOnidtTHKsq4zQ-2B-2BdCmMlNahWpnwMBGRvfD0aBliD5zGAsuZ0U9o7D2m4a1AvK-2BSH6vSJwNIpPS8r-2FaXv7_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI6QBYGBkBqvMlrSMLlPSS9agRmXoeDoAPz9KPN2fm82F7118LrJ2DB7mklb3XcouGqz6V8fGfKaffa-2F1D1cla9KptUdsTqivTlq2J4t1W6WW4OBYj1U4tJCM8c1FV1XZUzoQ6lXlWU5oOqpvRF0-2BWfJav5ITiAiEPVQb06EqlHFeqt9WN3ED40nKSCCrRbhUQ4pq0JzE-2FV2LrobeaUKyEqY-3D) [*Tim Kaine*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPHlQpQxQm0s3n0-2B8iwIT-2B36H5qSRKe6mlQF6XYfZfD8DL6UXAhBBdX6pv1Z78iTaQw56u19I8ycqyJJTFZSE-2BcQ5ci43endOnidtTHKsq4zQ-2B-2BdCmMlNahWpnwMBGRvfD0aBliD5zGAsuZ0U9o7D2m4a1AvK-2BSH6vSJwNIpPS8r-2FVWc7_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI66T5L0lAWFRUovxbg0mVKZB2tE8uf5pMooII3ay4FeimbLiyGAds6Vt9mCW-2FJf-2FhnVrvdI4YRh1EO9FmOiLMwTUCSaz2bxOd0G3cA0hHEzravyRCMwLiNRp-2FJurTa9yIdOyK9hKrZ5cDEsO-2BveTt3dR5kJ8Sws14PFw08GFaSJ1OAyzbvchq7EEgVnFBQq-2Fv2bWdjxaVxXX9lFsza-2F7Ygg-3D) **Applying the News Story** Reflect on the raid and the capture of President Maduro, using this news story as an opportunity to discover what the Bible says about interventions in the lives of others, authoritarian rule versus democracy, different styles of leadership and forms of government, and what actions should be taken to confront injustice. Apply these lessons to your own life, as you attempt to maintain peaceful and just relations with your neighbors. **The Big Questions** 1. What lessons, if any, should the United States learn from interventions in the affairs of other countries in the past? Be specific. When have you intervened in the life of a friend or family member, and what did you learn? 2. Maduro is accused of being an authoritarian ruler and a narco-terrorist. Which offense, if either, justifies a raid, and why? What other approaches can be taken to countering authoritarian rule? How else can narco-terrorism be defeated? 3. What are the advantages and disadvantages of a democratic form of government in a nation, a community, a church and a family? What kind of leadership structure works best in each of these groups? 4. What actions should be taken to confront injustice -- at the international level, at the national level, in your neighborhood and in your church? How do approaches differ at each level? What similarities exist? 5. How do you maintain peaceful and just relations with your neighbors? When do you confront sin, and when do you "live and let live"? **Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope**Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: **Ezekiel 34:3-4***You eat the fat; you clothe yourselves with the wool; you slaughter the fatted calves, but you do not feed the sheep. You have not strengthened the weak; you have not healed the sick; you have not bound up the injured; you have not brought back the strays; you have not sought the lost, but with force and harshness you have ruled them.* (For context, read [Ezekiel 34:1-10](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxlKpUV4Dh9tedsWuuErfs6PGMV4s98V4Olyv83NCNUf-2FYJSV0Y2QbSqUsXchXa1K8r6hB_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI6eyS0-2Brk12FFCOybYME6n5rCA9S54gL4ASsoFKntrXKnTRNXusto5y4A81c96zX9u0F1xiLUKiog2itp0wWoDFWxXnKZ3Af8WF8LhzgZYDDmfGHWZjDBCMCpfVVNOcbifaSClMd1gHE77zeATLL6L-2BoATiAgyyU1NqoWhqN0N2bbvEu0Ghl-2FJwoweHFXvnkoW5vcjvyBXaQ1Vzs5a-2FIjT8-3D).) The prophet Ezekiel was taken into exile in the city of Babylon more than 500 years before the birth of Christ. While in captivity, the prophet saw visions which included messages of judgment on Israel because of its idolatry, messages of judgment on the other nations of the world, and promises of future blessings for the people of Israel. In chapter 34, God commands Ezekiel to "prophesy against the shepherds of Israel" (v. 2). These shepherds are the rulers of Israel who have failed to feed, strengthen, heal and save the people under their care. Although the kings were not democratically elected leaders, they had a responsibility to rule the people like a shepherd tending his flock. God condemns the leaders of Ezekiel's time for not protecting the people from war, famine or exile. In the end, God declares, "I am against the shepherds, and I will hold them accountable for my sheep ... I will rescue my sheep from their mouths" (v. 10). > **Questions:** How can we best hold leaders accountable on the international stage? When should the United States intervene in the affairs of other nations, and how? What do you do to hold leaders of your church accountable for the way they care for the flock? **Hosea 10:13-14***You have plowed wickedness; you have reaped injustice; you have eaten the fruit of lies. Because you have trusted in your chariots, in the multitude of your warriors, therefore the tumult of war shall rise against your people, and all your fortresses shall be destroyed, as Shalman destroyed Beth-arbel on the day of battle ...* (For context, read [Hosea 10:11-15](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx-2FHPMOjD8YmVDGxLjRfui3BJfNB-2B8q0ELyd-2F3WXiRJSnFcqJlejy-2BxA-2BgjgJMhsl4r6QL_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI2s88BNAZ9xhOi5saw78Ln-2BEOIfxaEQg7D3cshMV1GFnhYsp1URTKh6OrPa7M471fb8cKyWe7LDhv8S5RYq6BsJvvNhbp8pJub9LumBqBUFRuD-2B0A1rwBtvoZEI5tOeRWunWgIKMX9AqAwe-2B8JjCLU8bfPOj3-2FXbx-2BRdxGS-2BIraOIO0w64LYYPs25w0R-2FZnF1cub131S0zeWCasI9CZMQ6s-3D).) Hosea was a prophet during the reigns of five kings, Uzziah through Jeroboam, and his book appears in the Bible as the first of the twelve Minor Prophets. Themes of infidelity and punishment appear throughout the book, including the opening chapter in which Hosea's marriage and children represent the unfaithfulness of Israel and God's response. In chapter 10, Hosea speaks of Israel's sin and its consequences. "You have plowed wickedness," says the prophet, and as a result "you have reaped injustice." By putting trust in chariots and warriors, "the tumult of war shall rise against your people." In contrast, Hosea encourages the nation to sow "for yourselves righteousness; reap steadfast love" (v. 12). > **Questions:** When have you seen nations face the consequences of their wickedness, without outside intervention? In contrast, when has intervention been required? What are the consequences of trusting "in your chariots"? On a local level, when have you seen wickedness lead to injustice and righteousness result in steadfast love? What steps have you taken, if any, to confront wickedness and encourage righteousness? **John 14:27***Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.* (For context, read [John 14:25-31](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxRYa8xjIjPPGNcN8kXRNh609yvvoeXiwnHfE61aucjzB4FeQytDW1-2Fd3Ga-2FYv3LZun_Qa_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NIwbOEk8GuPlzfYQTY3osI2obHPD2zbP0VtmKrJ3hYbFHRtnca8yXInuZI89amieBgw4YU8XPn-2B6ou-2F0b1c7cg4o8NV7kQdrH95Oi7GogGFsxZq6ZMsmTLxAUfZpggKdHXkB2NwCGgHFrMt6V5S4WurjiDNcUUKe73FH7raB2w-2FIUu1mYW2qrPi98sHsKc4P5yzw-2FGa-2BXFsaEneY-2F-2Fe7LGlg-3D).) The gospel of John contains a number of passages that do not appear in Matthew, Mark or Luke. One of these is the Farewell Discourse, found in chapters 13 through 17, with material about the "Advocate," the Holy Spirit. This material, unique to John, helps the gospel to stand out as a distinctive witness to the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. Jesus offers the Farewell Discourse at the Last Supper, and in it he promises that "the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and remind you of all that I have said to you" (v. 26). Then Jesus gives them his peace, which implies the gift of salvation, and he says, "I do not give to you as the world gives." In the face of all of life's difficulties, he says, "Do not let your hearts be troubled" or afraid. "I will no longer talk much with you," says Jesus, "for the ruler of this world is coming. He has no power over me" (v. 30). This verse suggests a battle between Satan and Jesus, but it is a battle in which the power of Jesus is superior. > **Questions:** How is the peace of Christ experienced in the community of faith? In what ways can the peace of Christ be extended to the larger world? What comfort do you receive from the promises of Jesus -- how do they help your heart not to be troubled or afraid? Be specific. **Galatians 6:1***My brothers and sisters, if anyone is detected in a transgression, you who have received the Spirit should restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness. Take care that you yourselves are not tempted.* (For context, read [Galatians 6:1-5](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxkbFv7nat5bHPJJ9MZ1n5O92MF-2FY0do1GhGqyEjimjJ-2FZZ-2BZGUJlHlf-2F91kZZc7wH__md_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NIzjTdL-2FXmIvIvktinwBsnxzpWyJ9UuEvFew9NXOLuWYotoo1Y2lmdsJq60AF2TJLa5sVke4heEAZAWDC8sdsjEC-2Fex0XRGnRJMPLPwQ2mrAMgNW3UkMjF19Jnp43Jt1losnBr9acdHnPbqX8hSCEzkz12BjLSMz9ShWqOY731v9UGAL220CIdkAp-2FyNVkVr1vMZwGD0m7HeOpM41rYwBMEE-3D).) In his letter to the Galatians, the apostle Paul was writing to churches in a region called Galatia, located in the central highlands of what is now Turkey. Paul had particular concern for the Gentiles among them, and wanted to communicate to them that there was "no longer Jew or Greek ... slave or free ... male and female." Instead, all were "one in Christ Jesus" (3:28). In this spirit of unity, Paul concluded the letter with instructions about how to live together in community. To "anyone detected in a transgression," members of the community should "restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness." Avoiding temptation is important, since every member can fall into sin. Paul said that we "fulfill the law of Christ" when we "[b]ear one another's burdens" (6:2). And he called members to personal accountability and self-examination, saying that they should “test their own work ... rather than their neighbor's work" (v. 4). > **Questions:** Why is it important to bring a spirit of gentleness into an intervention in the life of another person? What does it mean to bear the burden of another person? And why should we always be doing the work of self-examination, rather than examining what another person is doing? **For Further Discussion** 1. Consider this [eyewitness account from](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPAIXXWeVhX362sUUJnGg4LH46OBvgIrfTqmERSWHOYr26myHukqyLYlegWA0nvA2Yy2HLR88EF1Px3WoidLCeVkxKMJXWWQONbqf3571vadBCI3ASOFI3zYyGSzKFozbp9-2F-2FJkPPGdw-2F44o5xtOlrHm0S0ek3RBp3yCaDG7TSHl3wgHlAjAKDj-2FIEm5SyeaugA-3D-3Deq13_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NIwrEKLfO9UWO1Q-2FGcEi5JEGiFGitadBsl4-2B8iwJqCiAu7hUt9WGID7PATlphIys4N09gN28E96NUaCfy65-2BCxFQIABr8x45Ff6Fh0p6FYE94sjISEHoBfqFGQqMVagEDrxqghJ3YxrgBp-2BdQ8RIx2lWGF3hwJW4C9XvqkfWwhoK6wfhEnRMpvwXXNfqSND4U2uZwHp6BljafiRqknpBmkCc-3D) [*Politico*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPAIXXWeVhX362sUUJnGg4LH46OBvgIrfTqmERSWHOYr26myHukqyLYlegWA0nvA2Yy2HLR88EF1Px3WoidLCeVkxKMJXWWQONbqf3571vadBCI3ASOFI3zYyGSzKFozbp9-2F-2FJkPPGdw-2F44o5xtOlrHm0S0ek3RBp3yCaDG7TSHl3wgHlAjAKDj-2FIEm5SyeaugA-3D-3DA2-q_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI2pdlZhlJ6KnhlzIt0DRnxfvX7KjgHQGoPqjUszfaXtOoJVauwfBMAO3YijOPTBe-2Fxu4uQZKNTQvEJmGe7vD-2Bnb9x5kqY4htnyVrYlS4maDJasmYAyEta40ynl8PucwA9EcGNtzyxoHnuAgF9hYh6ZCZ2zn66aPCxpW5VP9HU3IrrUkwOKZOjFAb73yFgAVZHvw6fkOZXQ1fYwWxg6DkvTA-3D) by Tony Frangie Mawad, a Caracas-based Venezuelan journalist and political scientist: "A young woman in pajamas, with teary happy eyes, walked up and down the line announcing, 'Trump just said they took Maduro.' A man pulled out a bottle of prosecco and began passing it around, pouring it into small cardboard coffee cups as people toasted. A woman called her relatives abroad, part of Venezuela's 8 million-strong diaspora, to announce they would soon meet again in Venezuela. But even in the middle of the euphoria, another question began to surface, whispered and then spoken aloud: 'Okay, but then who's in charge now?'" Who do you think should be in charge of Venezuela? What, if anything, should the United States do after removing Maduro? 2. TWW Consultant James Gruetzner writes that the military portion of Maduro's arrest and capture was not, as some say, an "invasion," which is defined as forcefully entering territory with the intention to conquer. Instead, it was a "raid," defined as a sudden attack on a specific target without the intention of holding the location. What difference does this make to you, if any? How are the goals of these military actions distinct? What concerns do you have about an invasion that you might not have about a raid? Reports are that at least 75 were killed (Venezuelan and Cuban security forces, plus civilians) in the Maduro capture. What is the reasonable price of "justice" to suffer casualties in order to capture someone? 3. Preventing drugs from entering the United States is important, but so is *reducing the demand*. "Both prevention and treatment are important strategies for reducing demand for illicit drugs," [according to R Street.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPDXD0dj2q0odVaQBbYxPxUYxmzKvlCWT5mf-2Fh-2BliZse4xLsXXD2JWwzy1Dsd0JSgOgDq-2FSz90mARrUxebtYlOMoo7KTFiFLhmX1N0N4MgWy2MDOz81YZfgPccGEkJVLaeRDEHLrEHFcJsc6cUfNVvPI-3DasCi_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NIzBCTPD-2FMCrzxw-2FTdpotN6DWIiNBN7V-2FEyKqhq-2Barw-2F1PT1Vyjbptr5XEK481UU-2BKIKZ6bhNVfgg1LhR5WwtpY-2BvNsu3IabpO-2BJP4W-2BReCzv-2FZRoqARROL-2FfPRHLPnKBF4PQR-2BRgx-2BBgh96xoCZqnWHZ0cvBvL40DE2hvnY-2F7eDK5SL2Nb0FYcT-2BuFt-2FZOjkehsIC4Q0x7tkuboS-2BptGmd8-3D) "A key strategy for reducing demand for drugs is preventing individuals from starting to use them in the first place. ... Increasing 'the number of individuals receiving evidence-based treatment and achieving long-term recovery' is another priority. However, accessing treatment is already enormously challenging in many places. Too many people who are ready for treatment can't access it. Many facilities are over capacity, and services are often limited, especially in rural regions." What can you do to reduce the demand for drugs in your community? How can you increase access to treatment? What can your congregation do? 4. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God" (Matthew 5:9). What is the difference between a peacekeeper and a peacemaker? How can you make peace in your family, your church, your community and your world? Why is this an important activity of the "children of God"? **Responding to the News** Expect your leaders to be good shepherds, and hold them accountable for the way they care for the flock. Keep your eyes open for ways to confront evil and encourage righteousness in your church, community and world. Let the peace of Christ rule in our heart, and strive to bring a spirit of gentleness into any intervention in the life of another person. **Prayer** All-seeing God, you know what is in our hearts. We pray that you would help us to do the hard work of self-examination before confronting others in their sin. Guide us as we seek to hold both ourselves and others accountable, as we seek to build up your kingdom of love and justice on earth, in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. ****Copyright 2026 Communication Resources**** [Unsubscribe From This List](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/asm/unsubscribe/?user_id=14323725&data=JbKAZKC-5JW2vDPB4mugrobzVP63oBMCrTUvzYsdidZoMDAwdTAwMMCU2_lKElmFxfHcOM4vqHIfv504XDTqDVYI1BXWSLEWfONPS1v4qMJVW9jpFAYiUR6-tj3H7h4lzxvYtiK2rUiXfrzL3iKF-9h9puGOfQkGKjPBI75j5ADpncksT_fHJJsc4i5NNj_5_fxFGr2-1byVvg_9MycaPL8CVNxcW9mA9Xi-aw3i73kpEQpUMZ6LQ8Iyuc7KsnXHV7ZencCoNTjCGwvPXzCVbfHfRlkGpD-5A0FIHRJVAZ4geA5IWwtBSf14Bkomf9vtyhc3vD7S0ePphywIXAk7PKv7zyjfgtkPxCNFWQyXkyo-WCFKCGkjMa7MgVWy0qbpz9cmzM2cYZh3toxdjv2F-MHSL-7vx8ZgbCywKhA8bbpAuYuodtaFC9cVCM_QlAs178yI9WQ-V3XIZ2qUHEHZbLUsXruBS3Vm_umwluF-sOqfdQPMKZmLl-cwoFs1XjZR458nJAYEm_FEEET0eUSbCdTmDxmr8aGPEtjcWT7aPtrm8gAx2yiHNga_bKtfs136nF7tF5Nu0WDHy7npe3mGNxCXCnwOM4VSvLbLkoWSMKkFfTcM9ArkZT_xSdvybBYFYvMP9UYUT8w=) <div>Dear Class Members, Recent military action in Venezuela and the capture of President Nicolás Maduro lead us to focus this installment of The Wired Word on the questions of when interventions work, whether authoritarian rule should always be opposed, when action should be taken against injustice, and how peaceful relations can be maintained between individuals, groups and nations. <center><img src="https://www.thewiredword.com/\_img/tww\_logo\_email.jpg"/></center> United States Forces Raid Venezuela, Capture President The Wired Word for the Week of January 18, 2026 In the News On January 3, the United States launched military strikes in Venezuela and seized President Nicolás Maduro, ending his 13-year rule. NBC News reported that Russia and China immediately condemned the strikes and called for the release of Maduro, who was brought to the United States to face criminal charges. Iran and Cuba called the raid a violation of international law. Although more cautious in their tone, European allies of the United States also raised concern about the legality of the operation. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said that President Trump is fulfilling his campaign promise to "demolish foreign drug cartels" by seizing Maduro. On X, she said that the raid would "keep our citizens safe" in line with Trump's "America First" agenda. Concerns about American interventionism have been raised by numerous individuals, groups and countries. Venezuela was ruled by military strongmen for most of the first half of the 20th century. They promoted the oil industry while allowing some social reforms, according to the World Factbook of the CIA. Democratically elected governments were largely in charge until 1999, when Hugo Chavez gained authoritarian control over the government. Maduro became president in 2013 and claimed the presidency for his second term in 2018. This election was boycotted by most opposition parties and was widely viewed as fraudulent. Strong restrictions on free speech and the press have been imposed by Maduro, and under his leadership the country has suffered human rights abuses, widespread violent crime, political manipulation of judicial and electoral systems, and corruption. Declining living conditions have prompted nearly 8 million Venezuelans to leave the country. Maduro has been indicted with federal gun and narcotics trafficking charges, according to Fox News, along with his wife, Cilia Flores, his son and three alleged co-conspirators. The case, which reflects charges filed in the Southern District of New York in 2020, adds charges against Flores. Maduro is facing four charges, including narco-terrorism conspiracy and conspiracy to possess machine guns and destructive devices. Federal prosecutors allege that for years, the Cartel of the Suns -- or "Cartel de los Soles" -- has worked under Maduro's leadership to funnel narcotics into the United States. The indictment against Maduro alleges that he, along with his family, facilitated "cocaine-fueled corruption to flourish for his own benefit, for the benefit of members of his ruling regime, and for the benefit of his family members." In January 2025, the Biden administration increased to $25 million the reward for information leading to the arrest of Maduro. In the United States, reactions to the raid have been mixed. A message from the General Secretary of the Church of the Brethren said, "we are challenged by this complex situation as we see many Venezuelans rejoicing at the removal of President Maduro, yet are concerned where U.S. intervention will lead." In The Washington Stand, Yoe Suarez wrote that Venezuela "has become a territory where anti-Christian socialism violates the religious freedom of millions of believers. And we, as Christians, cannot think of a better way to rebuild a free Venezuela than respecting religious freedom." Many Latino evangelicals in the United States have been celebrating what they call a spiritual victory as well as a political one. "God is using Donald Trump to liberate Venezuela from the 27-year-old chains of oppression," said the Rev. José Durán, a Venezuelan immigrant living in Michigan, to The Roys Report. This view, referring to the period of time in which Chávez and Maduro led the country, is held by many (though not all) Latino evangelicals. The Rev. Antonio J. Gallardo is the bishop-elect of the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles and a Venezuelan American. In a phone call with Sojourners, he said that he "remains in tension" over what to feel since hearing of the raid. Gallardo said that many people he knows initially reacted with relief that Maduro had been ousted. "I want to join the joy of my people that live there. And I also am concerned about what the U.S. wants," he said. "I don't want Venezuela, or any country to become a colony of the U.S. ... So that's a tension I live with." The Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, an evangelical adviser to President Trump, applauded Secretary of State Marco Rubio's statement that the United States does not want to govern Venezuela and said the secretary wants to help the country transition to a "legitimate form" of democracy. But Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, said, "President Trump's unauthorized military attack on Venezuela to arrest Maduro -- however terrible he is -- is a sickening return to a day when the United States asserted the right to dominate the internal political affairs of all nations in the Western Hemisphere. That history is replete with failures, and doubling down on it makes it difficult to make the claim with a straight face that other countries should respect the United States' sovereignty when we do not do the same." More on this story can be found at these links: <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKQ82ZcUITnAmJYlC96hxF4G-2Fr5aZ-2BRmIf12zN3ewLmMUNuIP8YhemVx7FJ-2FjGvTNaLQC2yAhlJtBFQc0tj39dkFNb2RK1e-2BLcVMtyWW-2FzsFWwR-2BDJgfBiFbW5ZQyopLMQ-3D-3D26o7\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI223d8nAkFbJeBdazUfXg9sF7AIlDdtTK9HruJjYc5VeUpP7rN-2Fp-2FLMt7FhQoFU8qDmHHrToCcKtuk8BBXOWC3QKrEru7M7vZRbYpVEVnxU471pNm47rM3vFnNEtzpTbuIVZsMiXvKJqOcKhc1nvnNrZfOw0sFRlSp-2BuIkN-2B2I6-2FdzsRa8zxosjIKhhBi6JIrF47SFoFi-2FF54DxJz74Rl8A-3D">U.S. Allies and Foes Fear Maduro's Capture Sets Precedent for More American Intervention. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKQ82ZcUITnAmJYlC96hxF4G-2Fr5aZ-2BRmIf12zN3ewLmMUNuIP8YhemVx7FJ-2FjGvTNaLQC2yAhlJtBFQc0tj39dkFNb2RK1e-2BLcVMtyWW-2FzsFWwR-2BDJgfBiFbW5ZQyopLMQ-3D-3Do5Qn\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI8-2FMK0aAeSo1tRfV1dXuQtCyZ-2FlFJWgsczhLsnTb2sqqe8oGWynudJkxGcqQHE-2BWaKBKl0cnxc25FEecYlmxGTcqxOJaiDxMgFvh1CDPD-2BEQ-2B9mswOpb0YSkAtS96-2FL4eZjXbN2AXKbAwdIDfKTjG4k2LmYd6K7a8W14FLVwZZXlZzYKrgwyVdvW3tvPsE7q3DfMa3M7JS4VjG4aylpLqLU-3D">NBC News</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKQkeLop7XUqS36hZdAnBz0JVI2V6Z6z4rxpseUXCL334LvtbzAsVrpQBSspVPgDhEYrEF0PewlDnnX0wuth2IA-3DIS55\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI-2B-2F0Ndlm8l-2BR2K2U2TM45O2TYChSzSAXtOc0u3yqQ1j-2Fx1ENsOHSM92VsNLhc0o-2FeDXM6ZwhykI06l9Nu0kc-2BLLcheiChE5Wp34mZyt99IVCWrDB-2BLUOdy4CYaIAx45sl2b9eGF86b6Xaw5rfbH-2BhDCYU068aEOoS5xRcJ11SubolCytUv-2ByQ9qE7oe-2BxsI218j1IMMgI7PW8toIWd4GFAs-3D">Venezuela. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKQkeLop7XUqS36hZdAnBz0JVI2V6Z6z4rxpseUXCL334LvtbzAsVrpQBSspVPgDhEYrEF0PewlDnnX0wuth2IA-3D8hM5\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI7oeaiAW6-2Bwq0kNrQnRJycIFX3CVpQj2lAdrAoY2KC51NwNk33ob1wvCMAsT5PvKRjzmK5Pl5fSy2IaO-2F-2FchEaPQ1CuHuXOaxRKu7dC6TE0wYgCPZPltqOeMxqsRteM9Fm1CFcEQquJ665EfDfjj4es4X6Gow-2BTfUYAI-2B-2B95pBTYrMCCBE-2FcqhOggNsGyi87UKbTd30cAydhtIESaE3tOo4-3D">The World Factbook</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNnRLkPfLAMpP6p3RttiMUEWezYTceVhNrD6TrYsCAJsyBwkgNWjI1hQmlZkUb1Zbv-2Fvn0LCtekJkT9CJVuRKhoK0isMKhNYdJrZLFDVFe0e1f2J\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI2Xc3FGIM00x4BzujNSJCV8smdrDvAUnZMLikLab3UEEDI-2BnGsK9p-2FDRusmUgl9Rr9bwhr0VkB9-2Bemp1pjCVeTC1iPU0xmkb0ecpdteLc9EeZjtd68DcRc-2BTbGAy2Z65AAEYqZkYT5dYWnXUCJWZ8iaPYMQ-2BN94QSqzzBoO2QVRG42XwDyWpGFjtJ2tV3gD0POCG35knjHZKwCfYChu60N4-3D">DEA Zeroes in on Cartel of the Suns Bosses as Maduro Is Hauled Into U,S. Narco Case. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNnRLkPfLAMpP6p3RttiMUEWezYTceVhNrD6TrYsCAJsyBwkgNWjI1hQmlZkUb1Zbv-2Fvn0LCtekJkT9CJVuRKhoK0isMKhNYdJrZLFDVFe0ef9b9\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NIwTrY4GTVuLi-2BpbhT3Miu33qjV-2BiwSv9PO9-2F7vEwmf3lXwlEX1KFt-2BYBJjlxBZO7GQLb2kQUVy96iKuAgbujh5f96vbhVTGawZiikn4MPFeYlrhFPu9YmiRZjo5sgIEUmrnlqDXnOy8TTqPN6TanBw4cdyD-2FsFpayLiT-2FJx-2BxYtRDSlk-2Fvnbt71B9BPIl-2BOgwJVieoUPWNAJloXR1JDNE-2F8-3D">Fox News</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPA3KSN-2BroYXlavX53furzK7KoV5GymEOR-2BADmbk683dX6ZyCHa-2FNyV0G6tT14EgOhqNQavZf29QlFdlnhAKThNMuitSTpvh36FMa3aeaEm4UTXXP\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI0B57qNXXUBJUzu8xjKCu-2BvSbHZIZ2eyglaEmUDcyaUSR-2FL4Z0bY0-2Boie1P3NocNupk0x8eU-2FVvYBkrCQEvZNYqE-2BsyKizc6MNISdh1VPOzQ-2B0z-2ByT12Rk1JPNXAVTDplFuqKPP8jKh-2F5-2BAEun3t5SwNp3WiiyD7zVMze3qQDKUZWPvpX9ngHj4s0jPbOkpfDbvEJZ2j8-2B96vnZeRF5i28c-3D">Newsline Special: A Pastoral Response to the Removal of Venezuela President Nicolás Maduro and U.S. Military Strikes.</a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPA3KSN-2BroYXlavX53furzK7KoV5GymEOR-2BADmbk683dX6ZyCHa-2FNyV0G6tT14EgOhqNQavZf29QlFdlnhAKThNMuitSTpvh36FMa3aeaEm4UpSNh\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI59Wx-2BTW4HBiXJNfLwLL8rsuCbZ09QYwIBuqkiP6iYXx6XL41mTUH9eb-2B-2BaWA2IucfXMFBN1cTATHT3Oo-2Fsz1FC0k-2Bt1MfhNLDSaCEsVF-2FbIgU9kZoEMDHASG6FzHmZzgq-2BpGWPzJG1WJO5kG0g7stcB6LHC80nxI7yymhpZHTI6cNf8D8jcLKYSmS-2FvX-2F0YJF2fFj19osNsXEiptHxyke4-3D"> Church of the Brethren</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJhJpzYCUVOaMJY71XTF-2BKMBYcOL7bVpIaNw4sP4mZaPFCpkulam7XlTEp7B1ifJZL86jk-2BkMZ0b3R0Pwwdkm48FGcCi1O7D9vs8W9zNSG0U2g3LUoVHyQj-2FmoHi1cYjzQ-3D-3D2vDr\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI2s-2FwJ3CQFHVCAyyIOjMyMvrqTyqj6K95tk60gGLwZ5ifPpGlVtanL7qsuuB3AynkcaEHxtvenTi8x-2BG3n7On0IOexuUnhR8Y-2BUzAM8Ihwg1j-2Bi9veMVLA77OZEUc2VMBvdU6tgAkWDP0dXlzI9sy2PGZX9TBLN20LKM4MDnWvrRLAbGrwUFGYFO9-2BAicpPQLvdSYGZHQFmqU0TLm5KKhCI-3D">Will Maduro's Capture Signal the End of an Anti-Christian Regime? </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJhJpzYCUVOaMJY71XTF-2BKMBYcOL7bVpIaNw4sP4mZaPFCpkulam7XlTEp7B1ifJZL86jk-2BkMZ0b3R0Pwwdkm48FGcCi1O7D9vs8W9zNSG0U2g3LUoVHyQj-2FmoHi1cYjzQ-3D-3D5gSS\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NIzkKr-2F4Nix9DuD-2FWD2SlhqCfwslFaLq7rd9S7VJyo9mSkY0zP6qVLlqnoUxG9mwCI2dTKq1A1UuwLvg1eX0-2B1RPPNTGmNPh8p-2BDtPmXhPCHq0pqion0QgEuK8g2205ba4Nd3FeRlIupBKhOGOgXPD0VOsEh2DG6XZWIyyQfisxZ5sgZoFx6FXpDIMBF02B1wZFPYc2iC-2FtgakS5h2VFtGcI-3D">Washington Stand</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPEm7esoCYnIQRmx1emCnobOTNawAdBHXz7b487ebhbnPDMEkU-2FDbaxnLrqDh9JUJij7lvJWGqiRaShVXvnT4ZLWV04a53lBiio5w9PJYtxuBmuAUpOw2PohY8LEXJgTVRBXIZsHDObxa74ZMrSzp2oY-3D9oTj\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI593L7vFFh6WjALhtNCliabNR9lY-2FTxVHX9p68JwBRUBO08DW4seokSel-2FbVPP-2BcMhZgDkJpBxsFxmVGSnG8gFWCq8di2jKa-2BWRB2sAPCFiZ0-2Fddi-2FufM23JOwQkz85A-2Bt0e2PIVkGTDYuVfN1kVSblqkP5neb-2FO8ZclxWdDc1X85mWEa7j6aPlOMKA-2F2b0niI5ZYwiO0T340xWs7aNHAMM-3D">Latino Evangelicals Celebrate Maduro's Capture as Divine Victory. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPEm7esoCYnIQRmx1emCnobOTNawAdBHXz7b487ebhbnPDMEkU-2FDbaxnLrqDh9JUJij7lvJWGqiRaShVXvnT4ZLWV04a53lBiio5w9PJYtxuBmuAUpOw2PohY8LEXJgTVRBXIZsHDObxa74ZMrSzp2oY-3DpG41\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI-2BThBjSvtH-2FTAiayDma2randgoFGh8SJW8rqEn2Wp9uU0PHwMi3IMUXHc41ax2WJvH8y2POmHOcke3K1VDULFZ6AlVcv5aWQjkp3reaiGTkjJkXwEo1sKHVcTvu61X7xn1HNmlC-2FvuUo6-2FZ1RP7Q0MjfVm7dPh1YMoBTmpfWeF8YORHtGWNdMCsU2qiFnWuGGdkbKnE-2FNvVcDCmhgwqN-2FEc-3D">The Roys Report</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPL6ZCKOMVHIv5bNa8fAZTFHLs3UoUob4pZAy1VrquyBeQTcnQLqvrDRVEt-2BZR6pb-2FxtvXN0jIqvF9Oo5as7e6yQYkZGIZhq16OAsUAd2hV1HXWVE52IhOqNM15aBBhAVNw-3D-3D1jK4\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NIz0xW5mWz7tYiVXlzIp7eIoTomB-2Bs1aRgZUtQy7j17GgjH21For-2FI39A67XG2aTk9SDiCW1UZpTZFnVOylZ67R94aKUMGiYw8jPhEqRwxhV1tBzUNL7qal7nUpVmQ9fm1p4LkTZwF-2FnDrqTXjUK35XbRgoknBmxNklodA9UEUc8iZsw1Yhu-2F0rz71HW43DEW8hBDFk-2Bp23pTjK0emhUmxI4-3D">After Maduro, Venezuelan Christians Pray for End to U.S. Imperialism. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPL6ZCKOMVHIv5bNa8fAZTFHLs3UoUob4pZAy1VrquyBeQTcnQLqvrDRVEt-2BZR6pb-2FxtvXN0jIqvF9Oo5as7e6yQYkZGIZhq16OAsUAd2hV1HXWVE52IhOqNM15aBBhAVNw-3D-3DT524\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI5YIOxyA-2FlLejvN1XXb2SzLOsmwkqtGvWXeko1fYvvqbHb4RoGCJySdPk-2BQrXQZ2bpQdbv-2FLq5x4j3MegqMkIsfc9OkDuummR5L-2FPC7YrX2T-2FEXU1ouBpAEyCC-2BobvCjbP7Z49VgnY41MamniJfjRqnHY9hXhN3HYk-2B8vmTqtQKM6GadOKuUBry4hzR52MqU1p-2Fbzqnp8zSLhH6IlLSpsV0-3D">Sojourners</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPHlQpQxQm0s3n0-2B8iwIT-2B36H5qSRKe6mlQF6XYfZfD8DL6UXAhBBdX6pv1Z78iTaQw56u19I8ycqyJJTFZSE-2BcQ5ci43endOnidtTHKsq4zQ-2B-2BdCmMlNahWpnwMBGRvfD0aBliD5zGAsuZ0U9o7D2m4a1AvK-2BSH6vSJwNIpPS8r-2FaXv7\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI6QBYGBkBqvMlrSMLlPSS9agRmXoeDoAPz9KPN2fm82F7118LrJ2DB7mklb3XcouGqz6V8fGfKaffa-2F1D1cla9KptUdsTqivTlq2J4t1W6WW4OBYj1U4tJCM8c1FV1XZUzoQ6lXlWU5oOqpvRF0-2BWfJav5ITiAiEPVQb06EqlHFeqt9WN3ED40nKSCCrRbhUQ4pq0JzE-2FV2LrobeaUKyEqY-3D">Kaine Statement on Trump Administration's Unauthorized Military Attack on Venezuela. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPHlQpQxQm0s3n0-2B8iwIT-2B36H5qSRKe6mlQF6XYfZfD8DL6UXAhBBdX6pv1Z78iTaQw56u19I8ycqyJJTFZSE-2BcQ5ci43endOnidtTHKsq4zQ-2B-2BdCmMlNahWpnwMBGRvfD0aBliD5zGAsuZ0U9o7D2m4a1AvK-2BSH6vSJwNIpPS8r-2FVWc7\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI66T5L0lAWFRUovxbg0mVKZB2tE8uf5pMooII3ay4FeimbLiyGAds6Vt9mCW-2FJf-2FhnVrvdI4YRh1EO9FmOiLMwTUCSaz2bxOd0G3cA0hHEzravyRCMwLiNRp-2FJurTa9yIdOyK9hKrZ5cDEsO-2BveTt3dR5kJ8Sws14PFw08GFaSJ1OAyzbvchq7EEgVnFBQq-2Fv2bWdjxaVxXX9lFsza-2F7Ygg-3D">Tim Kaine</a> Applying the News Story Reflect on the raid and the capture of President Maduro, using this news story as an opportunity to discover what the Bible says about interventions in the lives of others, authoritarian rule versus democracy, different styles of leadership and forms of government, and what actions should be taken to confront injustice. Apply these lessons to your own life, as you attempt to maintain peaceful and just relations with your neighbors. The Big Questions 1. What lessons, if any, should the United States learn from interventions in the affairs of other countries in the past? Be specific. When have you intervened in the life of a friend or family member, and what did you learn? 2. Maduro is accused of being an authoritarian ruler and a narco-terrorist. Which offense, if either, justifies a raid, and why? What other approaches can be taken to countering authoritarian rule? How else can narco-terrorism be defeated? 3. What are the advantages and disadvantages of a democratic form of government in a nation, a community, a church and a family? What kind of leadership structure works best in each of these groups? 4. What actions should be taken to confront injustice -- at the international level, at the national level, in your neighborhood and in your church? How do approaches differ at each level? What similarities exist? 5. How do you maintain peaceful and just relations with your neighbors? When do you confront sin, and when do you "live and let live"? Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: Ezekiel 34:3-4 You eat the fat; you clothe yourselves with the wool; you slaughter the fatted calves, but you do not feed the sheep. You have not strengthened the weak; you have not healed the sick; you have not bound up the injured; you have not brought back the strays; you have not sought the lost, but with force and harshness you have ruled them. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxlKpUV4Dh9tedsWuuErfs6PGMV4s98V4Olyv83NCNUf-2FYJSV0Y2QbSqUsXchXa1K8r6hB\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI6eyS0-2Brk12FFCOybYME6n5rCA9S54gL4ASsoFKntrXKnTRNXusto5y4A81c96zX9u0F1xiLUKiog2itp0wWoDFWxXnKZ3Af8WF8LhzgZYDDmfGHWZjDBCMCpfVVNOcbifaSClMd1gHE77zeATLL6L-2BoATiAgyyU1NqoWhqN0N2bbvEu0Ghl-2FJwoweHFXvnkoW5vcjvyBXaQ1Vzs5a-2FIjT8-3D">Ezekiel 34:1-10</a>.) The prophet Ezekiel was taken into exile in the city of Babylon more than 500 years before the birth of Christ. While in captivity, the prophet saw visions which included messages of judgment on Israel because of its idolatry, messages of judgment on the other nations of the world, and promises of future blessings for the people of Israel. In chapter 34, God commands Ezekiel to "prophesy against the shepherds of Israel" (v. 2). These shepherds are the rulers of Israel who have failed to feed, strengthen, heal and save the people under their care. Although the kings were not democratically elected leaders, they had a responsibility to rule the people like a shepherd tending his flock. God condemns the leaders of Ezekiel's time for not protecting the people from war, famine or exile. In the end, God declares, "I am against the shepherds, and I will hold them accountable for my sheep ... I will rescue my sheep from their mouths" (v. 10). <blockquote> Questions: How can we best hold leaders accountable on the international stage? When should the United States intervene in the affairs of other nations, and how? What do you do to hold leaders of your church accountable for the way they care for the flock? </blockquote> Hosea 10:13-14 You have plowed wickedness; you have reaped injustice; you have eaten the fruit of lies. Because you have trusted in your chariots, in the multitude of your warriors, therefore the tumult of war shall rise against your people, and all your fortresses shall be destroyed, as Shalman destroyed Beth-arbel on the day of battle ... (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx-2FHPMOjD8YmVDGxLjRfui3BJfNB-2B8q0ELyd-2F3WXiRJSnFcqJlejy-2BxA-2BgjgJMhsl4r6QL\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI2s88BNAZ9xhOi5saw78Ln-2BEOIfxaEQg7D3cshMV1GFnhYsp1URTKh6OrPa7M471fb8cKyWe7LDhv8S5RYq6BsJvvNhbp8pJub9LumBqBUFRuD-2B0A1rwBtvoZEI5tOeRWunWgIKMX9AqAwe-2B8JjCLU8bfPOj3-2FXbx-2BRdxGS-2BIraOIO0w64LYYPs25w0R-2FZnF1cub131S0zeWCasI9CZMQ6s-3D">Hosea 10:11-15</a>.) Hosea was a prophet during the reigns of five kings, Uzziah through Jeroboam, and his book appears in the Bible as the first of the twelve Minor Prophets. Themes of infidelity and punishment appear throughout the book, including the opening chapter in which Hosea's marriage and children represent the unfaithfulness of Israel and God's response. In chapter 10, Hosea speaks of Israel's sin and its consequences. "You have plowed wickedness," says the prophet, and as a result "you have reaped injustice." By putting trust in chariots and warriors, "the tumult of war shall rise against your people." In contrast, Hosea encourages the nation to sow "for yourselves righteousness; reap steadfast love" (v. 12). <blockquote> Questions: When have you seen nations face the consequences of their wickedness, without outside intervention? In contrast, when has intervention been required? What are the consequences of trusting "in your chariots"? On a local level, when have you seen wickedness lead to injustice and righteousness result in steadfast love? What steps have you taken, if any, to confront wickedness and encourage righteousness? </blockquote> John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxRYa8xjIjPPGNcN8kXRNh609yvvoeXiwnHfE61aucjzB4FeQytDW1-2Fd3Ga-2FYv3LZun\_Qa\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NIwbOEk8GuPlzfYQTY3osI2obHPD2zbP0VtmKrJ3hYbFHRtnca8yXInuZI89amieBgw4YU8XPn-2B6ou-2F0b1c7cg4o8NV7kQdrH95Oi7GogGFsxZq6ZMsmTLxAUfZpggKdHXkB2NwCGgHFrMt6V5S4WurjiDNcUUKe73FH7raB2w-2FIUu1mYW2qrPi98sHsKc4P5yzw-2FGa-2BXFsaEneY-2F-2Fe7LGlg-3D">John 14:25-31</a>.) The gospel of John contains a number of passages that do not appear in Matthew, Mark or Luke. One of these is the Farewell Discourse, found in chapters 13 through 17, with material about the "Advocate," the Holy Spirit. This material, unique to John, helps the gospel to stand out as a distinctive witness to the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. Jesus offers the Farewell Discourse at the Last Supper, and in it he promises that "the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and remind you of all that I have said to you" (v. 26). Then Jesus gives them his peace, which implies the gift of salvation, and he says, "I do not give to you as the world gives." In the face of all of life's difficulties, he says, "Do not let your hearts be troubled" or afraid. "I will no longer talk much with you," says Jesus, "for the ruler of this world is coming. He has no power over me" (v. 30). This verse suggests a battle between Satan and Jesus, but it is a battle in which the power of Jesus is superior. <blockquote> Questions: How is the peace of Christ experienced in the community of faith? In what ways can the peace of Christ be extended to the larger world? What comfort do you receive from the promises of Jesus -- how do they help your heart not to be troubled or afraid? Be specific. </blockquote> Galatians 6:1 My brothers and sisters, if anyone is detected in a transgression, you who have received the Spirit should restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness. Take care that you yourselves are not tempted. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxkbFv7nat5bHPJJ9MZ1n5O92MF-2FY0do1GhGqyEjimjJ-2FZZ-2BZGUJlHlf-2F91kZZc7wH\_\_md\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NIzjTdL-2FXmIvIvktinwBsnxzpWyJ9UuEvFew9NXOLuWYotoo1Y2lmdsJq60AF2TJLa5sVke4heEAZAWDC8sdsjEC-2Fex0XRGnRJMPLPwQ2mrAMgNW3UkMjF19Jnp43Jt1losnBr9acdHnPbqX8hSCEzkz12BjLSMz9ShWqOY731v9UGAL220CIdkAp-2FyNVkVr1vMZwGD0m7HeOpM41rYwBMEE-3D">Galatians 6:1-5</a>.) In his letter to the Galatians, the apostle Paul was writing to churches in a region called Galatia, located in the central highlands of what is now Turkey. Paul had particular concern for the Gentiles among them, and wanted to communicate to them that there was "no longer Jew or Greek ... slave or free ... male and female." Instead, all were "one in Christ Jesus" (3:28). In this spirit of unity, Paul concluded the letter with instructions about how to live together in community. To "anyone detected in a transgression," members of the community should "restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness." Avoiding temptation is important, since every member can fall into sin. Paul said that we "fulfill the law of Christ" when we "[b]ear one another's burdens" (6:2). And he called members to personal accountability and self-examination, saying that they should “test their own work ... rather than their neighbor's work" (v. 4). <blockquote> Questions: Why is it important to bring a spirit of gentleness into an intervention in the life of another person? What does it mean to bear the burden of another person? And why should we always be doing the work of self-examination, rather than examining what another person is doing? </blockquote> For Further Discussion 1. Consider this <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPAIXXWeVhX362sUUJnGg4LH46OBvgIrfTqmERSWHOYr26myHukqyLYlegWA0nvA2Yy2HLR88EF1Px3WoidLCeVkxKMJXWWQONbqf3571vadBCI3ASOFI3zYyGSzKFozbp9-2F-2FJkPPGdw-2F44o5xtOlrHm0S0ek3RBp3yCaDG7TSHl3wgHlAjAKDj-2FIEm5SyeaugA-3D-3Deq13\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NIwrEKLfO9UWO1Q-2FGcEi5JEGiFGitadBsl4-2B8iwJqCiAu7hUt9WGID7PATlphIys4N09gN28E96NUaCfy65-2BCxFQIABr8x45Ff6Fh0p6FYE94sjISEHoBfqFGQqMVagEDrxqghJ3YxrgBp-2BdQ8RIx2lWGF3hwJW4C9XvqkfWwhoK6wfhEnRMpvwXXNfqSND4U2uZwHp6BljafiRqknpBmkCc-3D">eyewitness account from </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPAIXXWeVhX362sUUJnGg4LH46OBvgIrfTqmERSWHOYr26myHukqyLYlegWA0nvA2Yy2HLR88EF1Px3WoidLCeVkxKMJXWWQONbqf3571vadBCI3ASOFI3zYyGSzKFozbp9-2F-2FJkPPGdw-2F44o5xtOlrHm0S0ek3RBp3yCaDG7TSHl3wgHlAjAKDj-2FIEm5SyeaugA-3D-3DA2-q\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NI2pdlZhlJ6KnhlzIt0DRnxfvX7KjgHQGoPqjUszfaXtOoJVauwfBMAO3YijOPTBe-2Fxu4uQZKNTQvEJmGe7vD-2Bnb9x5kqY4htnyVrYlS4maDJasmYAyEta40ynl8PucwA9EcGNtzyxoHnuAgF9hYh6ZCZ2zn66aPCxpW5VP9HU3IrrUkwOKZOjFAb73yFgAVZHvw6fkOZXQ1fYwWxg6DkvTA-3D">Politico</a> by Tony Frangie Mawad, a Caracas-based Venezuelan journalist and political scientist: "A young woman in pajamas, with teary happy eyes, walked up and down the line announcing, 'Trump just said they took Maduro.' A man pulled out a bottle of prosecco and began passing it around, pouring it into small cardboard coffee cups as people toasted. A woman called her relatives abroad, part of Venezuela's 8 million-strong diaspora, to announce they would soon meet again in Venezuela. But even in the middle of the euphoria, another question began to surface, whispered and then spoken aloud: 'Okay, but then who's in charge now?'" Who do you think should be in charge of Venezuela? What, if anything, should the United States do after removing Maduro? 2. TWW Consultant James Gruetzner writes that the military portion of Maduro's arrest and capture was not, as some say, an "invasion," which is defined as forcefully entering territory with the intention to conquer. Instead, it was a "raid," defined as a sudden attack on a specific target without the intention of holding the location. What difference does this make to you, if any? How are the goals of these military actions distinct? What concerns do you have about an invasion that you might not have about a raid? Reports are that at least 75 were killed (Venezuelan and Cuban security forces, plus civilians) in the Maduro capture. What is the reasonable price of "justice" to suffer casualties in order to capture someone? 3. Preventing drugs from entering the United States is important, but so is reducing the demand. "Both prevention and treatment are important strategies for reducing demand for illicit drugs," <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPDXD0dj2q0odVaQBbYxPxUYxmzKvlCWT5mf-2Fh-2BliZse4xLsXXD2JWwzy1Dsd0JSgOgDq-2FSz90mARrUxebtYlOMoo7KTFiFLhmX1N0N4MgWy2MDOz81YZfgPccGEkJVLaeRDEHLrEHFcJsc6cUfNVvPI-3DasCi\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmeypzxsmdCj03884zB4379-2FoSu5F-2FksE-2B6JMNghh8fgXXWUqFmIi77uuiGoHL83NIzBCTPD-2FMCrzxw-2FTdpotN6DWIiNBN7V-2FEyKqhq-2Barw-2F1PT1Vyjbptr5XEK481UU-2BKIKZ6bhNVfgg1LhR5WwtpY-2BvNsu3IabpO-2BJP4W-2BReCzv-2FZRoqARROL-2FfPRHLPnKBF4PQR-2BRgx-2BBgh96xoCZqnWHZ0cvBvL40DE2hvnY-2F7eDK5SL2Nb0FYcT-2BuFt-2FZOjkehsIC4Q0x7tkuboS-2BptGmd8-3D">according to R Street.</a> "A key strategy for reducing demand for drugs is preventing individuals from starting to use them in the first place. ... Increasing 'the number of individuals receiving evidence-based treatment and achieving long-term recovery' is another priority. However, accessing treatment is already enormously challenging in many places. Too many people who are ready for treatment can't access it. Many facilities are over capacity, and services are often limited, especially in rural regions." What can you do to reduce the demand for drugs in your community? How can you increase access to treatment? What can your congregation do? 4. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God" (Matthew 5:9). What is the difference between a peacekeeper and a peacemaker? How can you make peace in your family, your church, your community and your world? Why is this an important activity of the "children of God"? Responding to the News Expect your leaders to be good shepherds, and hold them accountable for the way they care for the flock. Keep your eyes open for ways to confront evil and encourage righteousness in your church, community and world. Let the peace of Christ rule in our heart, and strive to bring a spirit of gentleness into any intervention in the life of another person. Prayer All-seeing God, you know what is in our hearts. We pray that you would help us to do the hard work of self-examination before confronting others in their sin. Guide us as we seek to hold both ourselves and others accountable, as we seek to build up your kingdom of love and justice on earth, in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Copyright 2026 Communication Resources <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/asm/unsubscribe/?user\_id=14323725&data=JbKAZKC-5JW2vDPB4mugrobzVP63oBMCrTUvzYsdidZoMDAwdTAwMMCU2\_lKElmFxfHcOM4vqHIfv504XDTqDVYI1BXWSLEWfONPS1v4qMJVW9jpFAYiUR6-tj3H7h4lzxvYtiK2rUiXfrzL3iKF-9h9puGOfQkGKjPBI75j5ADpncksT\_fHJJsc4i5NNj\_5\_fxFGr2-1byVvg\_9MycaPL8CVNxcW9mA9Xi-aw3i73kpEQpUMZ6LQ8Iyuc7KsnXHV7ZencCoNTjCGwvPXzCVbfHfRlkGpD-5A0FIHRJVAZ4geA5IWwtBSf14Bkomf9vtyhc3vD7S0ePphywIXAk7PKv7zyjfgtkPxCNFWQyXkyo-WCFKCGkjMa7MgVWy0qbpz9cmzM2cYZh3toxdjv2F-MHSL-7vx8ZgbCywKhA8bbpAuYuodtaFC9cVCM\_QlAs178yI9WQ-V3XIZ2qUHEHZbLUsXruBS3Vm\_umwluF-sOqfdQPMKZmLl-cwoFs1XjZR458nJAYEm\_FEEET0eUSbCdTmDxmr8aGPEtjcWT7aPtrm8gAx2yiHNga\_bKtfs136nF7tF5Nu0WDHy7npe3mGNxCXCnwOM4VSvLbLkoWSMKkFfTcM9ArkZT\_xSdvybBYFYvMP9UYUT8w=">Unsubscribe From This List</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/wf/open?upn=u001.ri3TO7QGEXgsxcVdo6-2BoAGTuuWiDEfH5lVjP7AVQ-2Bcl7JaDKdeJ1ydQkXpTFAEqRD2SOncm40jgMuVls37ZLseTP-2Bc5kaLjFJf1Q3kw4FZdt1YoCkYWvLa1l-2BT-2F-2F8yIUiLbFHrmn64p2Xwmffzl3edR6Ty8TRKnThBIufHec6MYr94WZQxWVvMWvfNqNZdVSm2JpSP2sJuJ7h3Z8Ne0G7o1h4-2BQKV9UReVuovVj1-2Fql0KxwBX-2FMWYu0-2FdHNByVIzIpLyeEb8gSpL-2FWWFCsi-2BBFOaNfVfOSCfbAgrlCg2tUQR9-2B-2BmGY9-2BFA8fndU-2BNKtzeaGkg5r2V3obD0sSZ2Luus2fL41O4F5hl9cPxh7dklAHPDQUYh3w-2B8Utj7TnyVr-2BteRno0U1tbYg4a1cdC6hivNkyIp2DUIYvXic61MqjQFtIJ7IxWZTMCrXBq3WXQiyjyeNvxadREF1WWmFfexDWXhXpHocgHRA41aaYSADxfM-3D" style="height:1px !important;width:1px !important;border-width:0 !important;margin-top:0 !important;margin-bottom:0 !important;margin-right:0 !important;margin-left:0 !important;padding-top:0 !important;padding-bottom:0 !important;padding-right:0 !important;padding-left:0 !important;" width="1"/> </div>, The Wired Word for 01/18/2026, The Wired Word, 01kezv89bg0z6cz080vj0x8rn6.