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We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
New Zealand’s National Party’s deputy leader has invited Australian business owners to move there.
It comes after Labor announced changes to CGT in the recent federal budget.
New Zealand’s finance minister, Nicola Willis, has extended an invitation to Australians dissatisfied with the latest changes to their capital gains tax (CGT) policy, suggesting they consider relocating to New Zealand.
In a conversation with Sky News on Thursday morning, the deputy leader of New Zealand’s National Party highlighted the enticing prospects for Australians eager to establish or expand a business. “The opportunity to flourish is right here in New Zealand,” she enthused.
Willis elaborated on the benefits, pointing out the absence of a capital gains tax in New Zealand, a straightforward tax framework, and a low-rate, broad-based system. “We simplify things, offering accelerated depreciation and deductibility on capital investments, and boast a government that champions growth and minimizes bureaucratic hurdles,” she added.
As part of recent budget reforms, starting July 1, 2027, Australian investors who hold property for over a year will lose access to current CGT discount benefits.
Previously, Australians selling assets were taxed on only half of their profits. However, starting from the 2027-2028 fiscal year, these discounts will be adjusted in line with inflation.
Investors will also be forced to pay a minimum of 30 per cent on any gains.
The reforms are part of a broader plan to boost the supply of new homes by incentivising investors to buy new builds rather than established properties.
Critics argue that changes to CGT discounts could negatively affect startup founders and small business owners.
“We’re on a reforming mission to make this one of the best places in the world to do business,” Willis said.
Then she had a question to Australians: “Where the bloody hell are you? Come over.”
Her question appeared to be a reference to the slogan from a 2006 Australian tourism campaign aimed at international visitors.
New Zealand does not have a comprehensive CGT. Some profits that would normally be considered as CGT are taxed as income under the country’s tax laws.
In New Zealand, the nearest equivalent to CGT is the bright-line property rule, which taxes any profit from selling a property bought and sold within two years.
The country’s Labour Party plans to introduce CGT in a broader form, a move that New Zealand’s coalition government is strongly opposed to, as the country gets closer to its 7 November election.
The election has been impacted by Australian politics.
Labour leader Chris Hipkins is borrowing from Anthony Albanese’s successful 2025 campaign in several ways.
Hipkins has announced every Kiwi will receive a new national “Medicard” that will give free healthcare, saying Kiwis will need that and “not your credit card” when they go to GPs, a direct line from Albanese’s campaign.
Activists from the Bay Area recently found themselves at the center of international attention when they became part of a Gaza protest flotilla stopped by the Israeli military. The detained group was subsequently deported to Turkey.
On Monday, Israeli naval forces intercepted the vessel carrying over 400 activists associated with the Global Sumud Flotilla organization, halting their protest journey in international waters.
Several Bay Area families, along with a former San Francisco resident, confirmed that their relatives were among those deported from Israel to Istanbul on Thursday.
The deported individuals include North Bay residents Gregory Elias Terry, Kelly Riggle, Silas Beaver, and Logan Hollarsmith, who used to reside in San Francisco, according to reports from KQED.
“The Israelis kidnapped these people in international waters,” expressed Sidney Hollar, the mother of Logan Hollarsmith, in a statement to the media outlet.
Now lawmakers in the Golden State are calling on the US government to ensure their safe return to America.
Three of my constituents from the Spring 2026 Global Sumud Flotilla have reportedly been detained by the Israeli navy in international waters while attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza. I’m calling on Secretary Rubio and the State Department to ensure their…
“Three of my constituents from the Spring 2026 Global Sumud Flotilla have reportedly been detained by the Israeli navy in international waters while attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza,” North Bay Rep. Jared Huffman wrote on X.
“I’m calling on Secretary Rubio and the State Department to ensure their safety and fair treatment.”
He added, “The U.S. has an obligation to protect Americans abroad, and my team and I are working to safely get them home.”
The Flotilla departed from southern Turkey this week before being intercepted on their way to bring humanitarian aid to Gaza, before being detained by the Israeli military, per the group.
Earlier this week, video surfaced of Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir taunting the flotilla activists being pinned to the ground, with two later alleging they were physically assaulted in detention.
The US ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, condemned Ben-Gvir’s actions, saying he had “betrayed (the) dignity of his nation.”
Those detained will now remain in Turkey for a few days to receive medical treatment before flying home.
“While I’m super glad he’s coming home, the focus should remain on the need to stop the genocide,” Hollar told KQED. “That’s where the focus of everything should be, the point of what their mission was.”
This was the second time the flotilla was stopped this year, after the same one was intercepted in April, carrying Swedish activist Greta Thunberg.
Madison Square Garden was alive with excitement as the New York Knicks took a commanding 2-0 lead in the Eastern Conference Finals on Thursday night.
The Knicks moved a step closer to their first NBA Finals appearance in 27 years by defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers 109-93 in Game 2, with a crowd filled with celebrities cheering them on at MSG.
While Jalen Brunson and his teammates dazzled on the court, the sidelines were equally star-studded, featuring devoted Knicks fans like Timothee Chalamet and Ben Stiller, joined by a fresh roster of famous faces.
Chalamet, who had even skipped the Met Gala to support the Knicks during the first game of the conference semifinals at MSG, was once more a prominent figure on the arena’s renowned Celebrity Row.
The star of “The French Dispatch” was flying solo this time, without girlfriend Kylie Jenner, but was seen conversing with Tracy Morgan, who sported the Knicks’ iconic blue and orange from head to toe just a few seats away.
Ben Stiller, who, unlike Chalamet, sparked backlash from NBA fans for snubbing the Knicks for the Met Gala earlier this month, wasn’t making the same mistake again.
Timothee Chalamet headlined the celebrities at the Eastern Conference Finals Game 2
The New York Knicks dominated the Cleveland Cavaliers 109-93 in Game 2
Ben Stiller was once again in attendance to cheer on his beloved Knicks on Thursday
The Zoolander star was captured animatedly cheering on Knicks guard Josh Hart
The actor made it clear where his loyalties lie as he was captured rising to his feet and applauding New York as they stormed into a dominant lead.
Actors Jason Batman and Jason Sudeikis enjoyed a night of family bonding as they attended alongside their daughters.
Martha Stewart and Mariska Hargitay, who sported a Knicks puffer jacket, had also managed to snatch up front row seats. The celebrity horde also featured US tennis icon John McEnroe.
While former New York mayor Michael Bloomberg sat courtside, the city’s current chief Zohran Mamdani opted for a more understated appearance.
Living up to his socialist reputation as a man of the people, Mamdani, who earlier in the day announced a $50 World Cup ticket raffle for New York residents, was spotted taking in the action from the nosebleed seats in the stands.
The mayor reportedly purchased his own ticket for the Game 2 showdown.
Mamdani was accused of curing the New York Mets earlier in the MLB season when the baseball team slumped to a 12-game losing streak after the mayor attended a game and met their mascots, Mr and Mrs Met.
However, his voodoo seemingly does not jinx the city’s beloved NBA team as the Knicks had no qualms on Thursday night – even with Mamdani in the building.
Martha Stewart and Mariska Hargitay, who sported a Knicks puffer jacket, had front row seats
Actors Jason Batman and Jason Sudeikis soaked up the action together
Marty Supreme star Chalamet was spotted chatting to Tracy Morgan during the game
Josh Hart scored a playoff career-high 26 points, while Brunson had 19 points and 14 assists to help New York cruise to another victory lover the Cavaliers.
Mikal Bridges also scored 19 points and Karl-Anthony Towns had 18 points and 13 rebounds for the Knicks, who won their ninth straight game. That’s the NBA’s longest postseason winning streak since the Boston Celtics won 10 straight on their way to the 2024 championship.
Two nights after rallying from a 22-point deficit in the fourth quarter, the Knicks made sure they would be in control late with an 18-0 run in the third quarter that gave them a 71-53 lead.
Fans chanted ‘Knicks in four! Knicks in four!’ in the final minute, long after the starters had gone to the benches.
Donovan Mitchell scored 26 points and James Harden had 18 for the Cavaliers, who will have to climb out of a 2-0 deficit for the second straight round. They host Game 3 on Saturday.
In the early hours of the morning UK time, Meghan Markle delighted her followers by unveiling 24 never-before-seen photos from her wedding ceremony and reception held at St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle. Among the images, she shared a special post from the ceremony on her Instagram stories, accompanied by the 1998 classic “Forever Your Girl” by famed Hollywood singer Paula Abdul.
Paula Abdul responded warmly to Meghan’s gesture via her own Instagram story, as reported by People magazine.
“It’s so sweet to hear ‘Forever Your Girl’ alongside these beautiful memories,” Abdul wrote. “Wishing you both continued love, laughter, and a very Happy Anniversary! XoP.”
Later that Tuesday, Meghan offered fans a rare peek into her family’s anniversary celebrations in Montecito, California, where she resides with Prince Harry and their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
In a series of videos shared on her Instagram stories, Prince Harry is seen surprising Meghan with an anniversary cake, singing “Happy Anniversary” with their young children, creating a heartwarming family moment.
He also gave Meghan a sculpture of two penguins, a tribute to the time they dressed as a pair of penguins for a party after their engagement.
One of the photos from the reception showed the couple sharing a passionate kiss, while in another one, Meghan could be seen smooching her husband and holding his face, as he made an animated expression.
In a major offensive against child exploitation, authorities in Southern California have arrested over 300 individuals, according to a Thursday announcement from the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).
The extensive operation, named “Operation Firewall,” was aimed at tackling various online crimes, including child pornography, human trafficking, grooming, and attempts to lure children into illegal activities.
Conducted over a two-week span from April 19 to May 3, the crackdown covered five counties and involved the collaboration of 112 law enforcement agencies. The initiative was spearheaded by the LAPD’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program.
As a result of this concerted effort, authorities reported 341 arrests and the successful rescue of 40 children.
Related: Florida’s Operation Dragon Eye Rescues Dozens of ‘Critically Missing’ Children in Massive Sting
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman, at podium, stands next to LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell and Central District U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli and other members of law enforcement during a press conference on “Operation Firewall” in Los Angeles on May 21, 2026.(Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
“Operation Firewall was designed to identify and apprehend predators who use the internet to facilitate the sexual exploitation and abuse of children, while also identifying and rescuing those children from their abusers,” LAPD said.
Investigators conducted undercover operations across multiple social media platforms, followed by the execution of numerous search and arrest warrants, police said.
MEXICAN ILLEGAL ALIEN ALLEGEDLY USED ROBLOX CURRENCY TO SOLICIT EXPLICIT CONTENT FROM KIDS UNDER 10
One arrest resulted in a 45-year prison sentence for 42-year-old Daniel Navarro, who allegedly groomed two girls on Instagram and trafficked one to Mexico. He allegedly posed as a teenage boy and football player to entice his victims.
Over 150,000 illicit images were also uncovered, following an investigation into a Long Beach resident suspected of producing child sexual abuse material, Fox 11 Los Angeles said.
Authorities said charges span a broad range of offenses, including production, possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material; lewd acts with a child; contacting a minor for sexual purposes; human trafficking; failure to register as a convicted sex offender; and violations of parole and probation conditions.
Many of the victims have reportedly been reunited with their families or placed under the care of the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).
FBI TARGETS 250 SUSPECTS IN ‘764’ NETWORK OF ONLINE PREDATORS MANIPULATING KIDS INTO VIOLENT, EXPLICIT VIDEOS
Officers, who worked on “Operation Firewall,” leave a press conference at the LAPD Headquarters in Los Angeles on May 21, 2026.(Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
Law enforcement leaders used the operation to deliver a blunt warning to parents about the dangers of online grooming, saying predators often target children through digital platforms rather than in person.
“Get your kids off the internet. Nothing good comes from it. Most of the exploitation we’re seeing today, they are not meeting these people out in the park or on the street. They are meeting your kids and they are grooming them online,” U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California Bill Essayli said, according to Fox 11.
Police officers place a man in handcuffs on Feb. 23, 2026.(Jens Kalaene/picture alliance via Getty Images)
“If you were a parent, you would never walk your child physically into a room and leave them alone with a predator or a pedophile. Yet every day, parents hand their kids electronic device that gives them digital access into online gaming platforms or digital chat rooms… My message to parents, that the Fourth Amendment does not apply to you. Get in your kids’ stuff,” Orange County Sheriff Don Barnes added, according to the outlet.
Officials also highlighted the notorious “764” group, described as an online nihilistic violent extremist network that targets vulnerable minors online and coerces them into self-harm and explicit content, Fox 11 said.
Bonny Chu is a Breaking and Trending News Writer for Fox News Digital
DETROIT, Mich. (NewsNation) — On Wednesday, an Air France flight traveling from Paris to Detroit was rerouted to Montreal following concerns about a possible Ebola infection among the passengers, as confirmed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on Thursday.
The passenger in question was reportedly from the Democratic Republic of Congo and mistakenly boarded the flight. A CBP spokesperson noted that the individual had traveled despite existing restrictions but did not specify when they had last been in the Congo.
“To mitigate the risk of Ebola virus transmission, the passenger should not have been on the flight,” stated the spokesperson. The CBP acted promptly, redirecting the flight to Montreal instead of allowing it to land at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport.
Air France verified that the U.S. authorities requested the diversion, clarifying that there was no medical crisis onboard.
Ebola travel restrictions in the U.S.
On Thursday, the State Department released a health advisory indicating that travelers from Uganda, South Sudan, or the Congo within the last 21 days must enter the U.S. through Washington-Dulles International Airport in Virginia. This measure is part of “enhanced public health screening” efforts.
“The Dulles requirement applies to all passengers, including U.S. citizens and (lawful permanent residents), who were present in those countries,” the State Department clarified.
Air France said the Congolese passenger was denied entry into the U.S. due to new regulations that travelers from those three countries can enter only through Dulles.
The CDC announced “entry restrictions” on Monday for non-U.S. passport holders entering the U.S. who have been in the affected areas within the last 21 days. The agency invoked the restrictions under Title 42, a law that allows the CDC director to block noncitizens from entering the U.S. for up to 30 days for public health purposes, as reported by NewsNation partner The Hill.
Over 130 deaths so far from Ebola outbreak
The strain of Ebola causing issues, the Bundibugyo virus, is immune to vaccines and antibodies developed against the most common Ebola strain, according to CDC data. The virus has a death rate between 25% and 50%, and treatment consists only of supportive care.
The head of the World Health Organization said Wednesday the risk of global spread of the Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda is high at national and regional levels but low at the global level despite more than 130 deaths.
“There are almost 600 suspected cases and 139 suspected deaths,” WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said. “We expect those numbers to keep increasing.”
The Associated Press, NewsNation’s Sean Noone and partner The Hill contributed to this report.
Open Heaven 22 May 2026 Friday Daily Devotional By Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Spiritually Discerned (1)
Open Heaven 22 May 2026 TOPIC – Spiritually Discerned (1)
MEMORISE: But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. – 1 Corinthians 2:14 (KJV)
READ: Numbers 22:22-33 (KJV)
22 And God’s anger was kindled because he went: and the angel of the Lord stood in the way for an adversary against him. Now he was riding upon his ass, and his two servants were with him.
23 And the ass saw the angel of the Lord standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and the ass turned aside out of the way, and went into the field: and Balaam smote the ass, to turn her into the way.
24 But the angel of the Lord stood in a path of the vineyards, a wall being on this side, and a wall on that side.
25 And when the ass saw the angel of the Lord, she thrust herself unto the wall, and crushed Balaam’s foot against the wall: and he smote her again.
26 And the angel of the Lord went further, and stood in a narrow place, where was no way to turn either to the right hand or to the left.
27 And when the ass saw the angel of the Lord, she fell down under Balaam: and Balaam’s anger was kindled, and he smote the ass with a staff.
28 And the Lord opened the mouth of the ass, and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times?
29 And Balaam said unto the ass, Because thou hast mocked me: I would there were a sword in mine hand, for now would I kill thee.
30 And the ass said unto Balaam, Am not I thine ass, upon which thou hast ridden ever since I was thine unto this day? was I ever wont to do so unto thee? and he said, Nay.
31 Then the Lord opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the Lord standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and he bowed down his head, and fell flat on his face.
32 And the angel of the Lord said unto him, Wherefore hast thou smitten thine ass these three times? behold, I went out to withstand thee, because thy way is perverse before me:
33 And the ass saw me, and turned from me these three times: unless she had turned from me, surely now also I had slain thee, and saved her alive.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Nehemiah 4-7
Open Heaven 22 May 2026 MESSAGE
Today’s memory verse tells us that the natural man cannot understand the things of God because they are spiritually discerned. This means that such a fellow cannot follow God’s direction, as he or she cannot understand spiritual things and will even consider them foolish. Those who walk in the spirit, however, know how to discern spiritual things.
For instance, when it seems that several people are trying to get a Christian angry, it could be that the devil is seeking to open a window through which he can attack him or her. If the believer cannot spiritually discern the devil’s plan, he or she might eventually give in to anger, thereby giving the devil access to carry out his attack. Likewise, if a Christian keeps encountering people in need, especially if they are fellow Christians, it could be that God wants the believer to help them so that He can open windows of blessings over his or her life. However, if the Christian cannot spiritually discern what is happening and ignores the people in need, he or she would miss out on God’s blessing. Spiritual discernment is crucial in the journey of every Christian.
A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished. – Proverbs 22:3
In today’s Bible reading, Balaam’s donkey began to behave strangely when he was on his way to meet Balak despite God’s initial instruction forbidding him from going (Numbers 22:12). Balaam was so spiritually insensitive that he didn’t know the actions of the donkey were for his own good. When his donkey didn’t move as he wanted it to and kept turning away from the path it was supposed to take, he hit it in an attempt to force it to obey him. Even when the donkey spoke, which was very strange, Balaam was too spiritually insensitive to sense the danger ahead until God opened his eyes. I pray that your spiritual senses will be sharpened enough to see any dangers that are ahead of you, and you will be prudent enough to hide yourself, in Jesus’ name.
The lack of spiritual discernment has destroyed so many homes and ended so many lives prematurely. This is why spiritual discernment is a must-have for you in your walk with God, relationship with others, and dealings with the world. I pray that the Almighty God, in His mercy, will sharpen your discernment and help you see things as they really are, in Jesus’ name.
Open Heaven 22 May 2026 PRAYER POINT
Father, please help me to discern spiritual matters and see things as they truly are.
Open Heaven 22 May 2026 HYMN 28 – Guide me, O Thou great Jehovah!
1 Guide me, O Thou great Jehovah! Pilgrim through this barren land; I am weak, but Thou art mighty, Hold me with Thy powerful hand: Bread of heaven! Bread of heaven! Feed me now and evermore (2ce)
2 Open Thou the crystal fountain, Whence the healing stream doth flow: Let the fiery, cloudy pillar Lead me all my journey through: Strong deliverer! strong deliverer! Be Thou still my strength and shield (2ce)
3 If I tread the verge of Jordan, Bid my anxious fears subside: Bear me through the swelling torrent, Land me safe on Canaan’s side: Songs of praises! songs of praises! I will ever give to Thee (2ce)
4 Saviour, come! We long to see Thee, Long to dwell with Thee above; And to know in full communion, All the sweetness of Thy love. Come, Lord Jesus! Come, Lord Jesus! Take Thy waiting people home (2ce)
Open Heavens 2026 Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer’s Ministries.
Accessing the Devotional The Open Heavens devotional is conveniently available as an application across all major mobile platforms and operating systems, including iOS, Android, Nokia, Windows Mobile, and PC. This wide accessibility ensures that users can engage with the devotional from virtually any device. For more information or to access the Open Heaven for Today 2026, visit
REMINDER!!! JESUS IS COMING SOON
ARE YOU BORN AGAIN? IF NO, WHY NOT ACCEPT JESUS NOW!
Accept Jesus Christ today and secure a life of eternal rest and Glory by saying this short prayer below:
Lord Jesus, I believe you died for my sins, Forgive me of all my iniquities. I accept you as my Lord and Saviour from today and forever.
Come and Be the Lord of my life and I am willing to obey Your command and live according to Your will by Your Grace, Thank you for accepting me into Your fold
AMEN!!! John 6:37…and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.
DCLM Daily Manna 22 May 2026 Devotional by Pastor W. F. Kumuyi — Ultimate Triumph
TOPIC: Ultimate Triumph (DCLM Daily Manna 22 May 2026)
KEY VERSE: The LORD will be terrible unto them: for he will famish all the gods of the earth; and men shall worship him, every one from his place, even all the isles of the heathen – Zephaniah 2:11
TEXT: Zephaniah 2:7-15 (KJV)
7 And the coast shall be for the remnant of the house of Judah; they shall feed thereupon: in the houses of Ashkelon shall they lie down in the evening: for the Lord their God shall visit them, and turn away their captivity.
8 I have heard the reproach of Moab, and the revilings of the children of Ammon, whereby they have reproached my people, and magnified themselves against their border.
9 Therefore as I live, saith the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel, Surely Moab shall be as Sodom, and the children of Ammon as Gomorrah, even the breeding of nettles, and saltpits, and a perpetual desolation: the residue of my people shall spoil them, and the remnant of my people shall possess them.
10 This shall they have for their pride, because they have reproached and magnified themselves against the people of the Lord of hosts.
11 The Lord will be terrible unto them: for he will famish all the gods of the earth; and men shall worship him, every one from his place, even all the isles of the heathen.
12 Ye Ethiopians also, ye shall be slain by my sword.
13 And he will stretch out his hand against the north, and destroy Assyria; and will make Nineveh a desolation, and dry like a wilderness.
14 And flocks shall lie down in the midst of her, all the beasts of the nations: both the cormorant and the bittern shall lodge in the upper lintels of it; their voice shall sing in the windows; desolation shall be in the thresholds; for he shall uncover the cedar work.
15 This is the rejoicing city that dwelt carelessly, that said in her heart, I am, and there is none beside me: how is she become a desolation, a place for beasts to lie down in! every one that passeth by her shall hiss, and wag his hand.
DCLM Daily Manna For Today MESSAGE:
In the 19th century, cannibalistic tribes in the Pacific region worshipped cruel gods, offering human sacrifices. When missionary John Hunt arrived, he faced extreme danger. Yet, the chief of the tribe turned to Christ in 1854, renouncing his old gods. Soon, entire villages burned their idols and embraced Christianity, leading to a national revival.
Zephaniah foretold in this passage, that even “the isles of the heathen” would worship God. The specific transformation of the Pacific island proves that no culture is beyond God’s reach—He famishes false gods and establishes true worship. Over time, the gospel has faced fierce opposition in many nations and communities in the world. History has, however, recorded that time and time again, beyond the Bible stories like the encounter between Israel’s Ark of God and the Philistines’ Dagon, Prophet Elijah and the worshippers of Baal, idols and the gods of this world will continue to fall before the Almighty God, to buttress the efficacy of the gospel message.
Israel had suffered cruel persecutions from heathen nations as a result of their continual disobedience to God. They had been made to pass under the rods of the Assyrians, the Egyptians, the Babylonians, the Medo-Persians, the Greeks, and the Romans. And of late, antiSemitic sentiments have rocked the world so much with dire consequences. The idolatrous nations have continued to claim their triumph over the elect of God. Some even boast of overrunning the lifesaving and everlasting gospel. But God has always proved them wrong as He remains the only true God. His Church has remained firmly built upon the Rock that is Christ, which no gate of hell has neither the audacity nor capacity to conquer.
The people of God must rejoice and march on confidently knowing that God will yet glorify Himself in His faithful and forthright children who will not cave in at the aggression of opposers of their faith in the true and the living God. The enemies of God will bow to the majesty of the Almighty. And in the regeneration, the ferocious biters today will be bitten by the just retribution of the Omnipotent.
THOUGHT OF THE DAY Rejoice! The Church militant will be the Church triumphant!
THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR Ruth 3-4
Deeper Life Daily Manna For Today 2025 was written by Pastor W. F. Kumuyi; is the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Life Bible Church situated at KM 42 on the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Nigeria.
REMINDER!!! JESUS IS COMING SOON
ARE YOU BORN AGAIN? IF NO, WHY NOT ACCEPT JESUS NOW!
Accept Jesus Christ today and secure a life of eternal rest and Glory by saying this short prayer below:
Lord Jesus, I believe you died for my sins, Forgive me of all my iniquities. I accept you as my Lord and Saviour from today and forever.
Come and Be the Lord of my life and I am willing to obey Your command and live according to Your will by Your Grace, Thank you for accepting me into Your fold
AMEN!!! John 6:37…and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.
A tragic incident has unfolded in Colorado, where a man is accused of killing his 4-year-old Godson while attempting to “correct” the child’s behavior through a so-called “boot-camp” at his residence.
Authorities from the Office of the 18th Judicial District Attorney have confirmed to Oxygen the charges against 24-year-old Alexander Martinez-Armstrong. He now faces serious allegations, including first-degree murder and child abuse knowingly or recklessly leading to death.
Alexander Martinez-Armstrong Arrested After Boy Suffered Bruises “From Head to Toe”
The heartbreaking event came to light when police received a distress call around 10 p.m. on May 16. They were alerted to Martinez-Armstrong’s apartment with reports of a small child who was unconscious and not breathing, as detailed in a statement by the Aurora Police Department.
Upon arrival, officers discovered the boy suffering from severe injuries. Despite being swiftly transported to a local hospital, the young victim succumbed to his wounds.
Medical personnel noted the child’s body was marred by bruises “from head to toe,” including discolored marks on his face, which were in various stages of healing, as reported in an arrest affidavit shared with Oxygen.
While searching the apartment, officers discovered a belt with a broken prong on a table next to some school work—which investigators believe may have been used to strike the child.
“Some of the bruising marks had different shapes,” police wrote, “appearing to be elongated marks, which could be from objects like whips or belts.”
Alexander Martinez-Armstrong Accused of Running “Boot-Camp” For Child
The boy’s mother described Martinez-Armstrong as being “like a brother” to her and told investigators that her son had been sent to a “boot-camp” at his home, per the affidavit, because she was hoping the 24-year-old could “correct” her son’s behavioral issues, according to the affidavit.
She explained that the child had been “repeatedly lying to her, sneaking into her purse, not listening to her and occasionally sneaking candy,” according to the court document.
Martinez-Armstrong—who was described as being the boy’s “godfather”—allegedly admitted to hitting the boy during his days-long stay, per the affidavit, and said he had been “on punishment for being bad, disruptive, and not listening.”
He allegedly added that the child’s mother had given him “full permission” to use the same methods she used at home, including belt whippings, spankings, wall sits, push ups and planks.
Martinez-Armstrong allegedly went on to explain, per the affidavit, that the child bruised his face and forearms after he collapsed while doing pushups and also suffered bruising on his buttocks from being whipped with a belt.
Martinez-Armstrong told one officer that the child—who was not identified—“would cry during the whippings and say, ‘ow,’” according to the court records. He told officers that he’d respond by telling the boy, “I know it stings, I know, get up…” and asking if he was going to be “good.”
He also allegedly admitted to spanking the child with an open palm when he “messed up” his schoolwork and forcing him to do wall sits.
Two days before his death, Martinez-Armstrong allegedly told officers he began to use the belt to discipline him as well, adding that he’d received the “most discipline” on the day of his death because he “messed up” seven times and got 21 belt strikes as a result, per the affidavit.
The last time he allegedly whipped the child was right before dinner at about 9:30 p.m. and said the child was given food, only ate one bite and then put his head on the table and appeared to be falling asleep, per the court records. Martinez-Armstrong walked him to the couch where he fell asleep with a blanket. When he came in to check on the boy about 20 minutes later, he told investigators found him unresponsive and his girlfriend called 911, authorities said.
Martinez-Armstrong’s girlfriend also allegedly witnessed Martinez-Armstrong whip the boy with a belt but thought the child was “fine” after dinner that night, according to the court records.
While speaking with the child’s mother, she allegedly admitted to “routinely” punishing her son by having him do wall sits, planks, pushups, running and hitting him with a belt or an open hand, per the affidavit. She also allegedly told investigators that she “told other men in her life that it is okay to ‘whip his ass’” when disciplining him and had wanted a father-figure in his life.
She added, per the court document, that she never believed Martinez-Armstrong would “hurt” the boy.
Martinez-Armstrong is currently being held at the Arapahoe County Jail. Office of the 18th Judicial District Attorney Director of Communications Eric Ross told Oxygen his next scheduled court appearance is July 17.
It’s unclear whether he has retained an attorney. Oxygen reached out to the public defender’s office, but did not receive an immediate reply.
Rhapsody Of Realities 22 May 2026 By Pastor Chris Oyakhilome (Christ Embassy): The Church Is Built On Christ
TOPIC: The Church Is Built On Christ (Rhapsody of Realities 22 May 2026)
And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. And I say also unto thee, THAT THOU ART PETER, AND UPON THIS ROCK I WILL BUILD MY CHURCH…” (Matthew 16:16-18).
Rhapsody Of Realities For Today’s MESSAGE:
Over the years, many have grossly misunderstood the underlined portion of the scripture above. Some have assumed the “rock” was the revelation Peter gave when he said Jesus was the Christ. Others have even assumed the “rock” was Peter himself. But neither of these is true.
The Lord Jesus was speaking about a Person when He said, “Upon this rock”; He was referring to Himself—Christ! In Greek, the distinction becomes even clearer. The Lord Jesus called Peter “Petrus,” meaning a stone, but He referred to the foundation as “Petra,” meaning a rock, a founding stone.
The Lord is that rock. He wasn’t saying, “Upon this ‘Petrus’ I will build my Church” but “Upon this ‘Petra,’” which is Christ the Rock, a foundation, a sure cornerstone: “…Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation…” (Isaiah 28:16). Christ had already been known in prophetic writings as the Rock.
So, when Peter said, “Thou art the Christ,” he was declaring that the Lord Jesus was the promised foundation. He was the one spoken of as the sure cornerstone. And the Master responded by revealing the prophetic reality: the Church would be built upon Christ, the Rock, and nothing from hell could prevail against it.
This connects with the prophetic vision in Daniel. Daniel spoke of the stone cut out without hands that struck the image at its feet of iron and clay, and the whole structure collapsed (Daniel 2:34-35). That stone became a great mountain and filled the whole earth.
The interpretation was clear: “Then was the iron, the clay, the brass, the silver, and the gold, broken to pieces together, and became like the chaff of the summer threshingfloors; and the wind carried them away, that no place was found for them: and the stone that smote the image became a great mountain, and filled the whole earth” (Daniel 2:35). That’s the mountain of the Lord’s house.
The stone is Christ, and that mountain is His everlasting dominion. The Church is built on Christ, and because the Church stands firm on Him, the gates of hell cannot prevail against it. This is the certainty of our faith. Christ is our Rock; we’re established on Him forever.
PRAYER
Dear Father, thank you for the light of your Word and the certainty of the truth revealed in Christ. My faith is established on Christ, the Rock, and the Gospel prevails in every nation, and the righteousness of Christ is established in the hearts of men, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
FURTHER STUDY
1 Corinthians 3:11 (KJV) For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 2:19-22 (KJV) Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; [20] And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; [21] In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: [22] In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.
1 Peter 2:4-6 (KJV) To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious, [5] Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. [6] Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.
1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN John 10:22-42 & 2 Kings 8-9
2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN 1 Corinthians 11:20-29 & Proverbs 18
DIVINE HEALTH CONFESSIONS – 22ND MAY 2026
I refuse to live or function by natural abilities or within human capacity. I make full proof of God’s limitless power that has been deposited in my spirit; thus, I reign, rule, and dominate my world. I proclaim that my health and everything that concerns me prospers.
Keep saying it, don’t stop talking it! Remember, you can make your way prosperous with words. Get talking today!
Remember to share with all your friends and loved ones today. Thank you and God bless you richly.
Rhapsody of Realities 2026 Devotional was written by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome (D.Sc., D.D.). President of Loveworld Inc. aka Christ Embassy Int’l.
REMINDER!!! JESUS IS COMING SOON
ARE YOU BORN AGAIN? IF NO, WHY NOT ACCEPT JESUS NOW!
Accept Jesus Christ today and secure a life of eternal rest and Glory by saying this short prayer below:
Lord Jesus, I believe you died for my sins, Forgive me of all my iniquities. I accept you as my Lord and Saviour from today and forever.
Come and Be the Lord of my life and I am willing to obey Your command and live according to Your will by Your Grace, Thank you for accepting me into Your fold
AMEN!!! John 6:37…and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.
