What would Jesus say today?

Christ's Timeless Wisdom Applied to Today's Headlines

February 18, 2026

"Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away." — Matthew 24:35

1

Bernie Sanders and Gavin Newsom Clash Over Taxing California Billionaires

Senator Bernie Sanders is pushing for aggressive taxation of California's billionaire class, but Governor Gavin Newsom is resisting the proposal. The conflict highlights the ongoing national debate about wealth inequality and how to address the growing gap between the ultra-rich and working Americans. The disagreement puts two prominent progressive leaders at odds over economic justice.

Jesus's Words

"It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God."

Mark 10:25

Why This Quote

Jesus consistently warned about the spiritual dangers of wealth and called for care of the poor. This debate about billionaire taxation reflects the timeless tension between accumulating vast wealth and serving the common good. Jesus's teaching reminds us that our relationship with money reveals our relationship with God and neighbor.

2

Federal Judge Orders DHS to Allow Ash Wednesday Service for ICE Detainees

A federal judge had to intervene to ensure Immigration and Customs Enforcement detainees could observe Ash Wednesday religious services. The ruling highlights concerns about religious freedom and human dignity for those held in immigration detention. The case underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement and treatment of vulnerable populations.

Jesus's Words

"I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me."

Matthew 25:35-36

Why This Quote

Jesus explicitly identifies himself with prisoners and strangers, commanding his followers to show them compassion. Denying religious observance to detained immigrants contradicts this call to recognize the sacred dignity in every person, especially the most vulnerable. Christ calls us to see His face in those society marginalizes.

3

Epstein Files Suggest Acts That May Amount to Crimes Against Humanity, UN Experts Say

United Nations experts have indicated that newly released Jeffrey Epstein documents reveal patterns of abuse that may constitute crimes against humanity. The revelations continue to expose systemic exploitation and trafficking of vulnerable women and girls. The case represents a profound failure of justice systems to protect the powerless from predatory wealthy elites.

Jesus's Words

"If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea."

Matthew 18:6

Why This Quote

Jesus expressed fierce condemnation for those who harm the innocent and vulnerable, particularly children. The exploitation revealed in the Epstein case represents exactly the kind of evil Jesus warned against with the strongest possible language. His words remind us that God sees and will judge those who prey upon the powerless.

4

Over 600 People Fired or Punished for Posting About Charlie Kirk's Death Seek Justice

More than 600 individuals across the United States have been terminated or disciplined for social media posts related to conservative commentator Charlie Kirk's death. The widespread firings have raised serious concerns about free speech, employment rights, and the power corporations wield over employees' personal expression. Workers are now organizing to challenge what they see as political retaliation.

Jesus's Words

"Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me."

Matthew 5:10-11

Why This Quote

Jesus promised that those who stand for truth and justice will face persecution, yet they remain blessed. While the specific circumstances vary, the principle applies to those who face retaliation for expressing their conscience. Christ's words offer comfort to those suffering professional consequences for speaking what they believe to be true.

5

Department of Homeland Security Enters Partial Shutdown Due to Budget Impasse

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has entered a partial shutdown as Democrats and Republicans remain deadlocked over funding legislation. The shutdown affects border security operations, disaster response capabilities, and numerous other critical services. Thousands of federal workers face uncertainty about paychecks while political leaders remain unable to compromise.

Jesus's Words

"Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand."

Matthew 12:25

Why This Quote

Jesus warned that internal division destroys institutions and communities from within. The government shutdown exemplifies how partisan warfare prevents leaders from serving the common good and harms innocent workers caught in the middle. Unity and cooperation, not endless conflict, are required for a society to function and flourish.

6

Federal Prosecutors Quit in Protest Over Lack of Investigation Into ICE Shooting

Multiple federal prosecutors have resigned after being blocked from investigating the fatal shooting of an individual by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents. The departures signal deep concerns about political interference in the justice system and accountability for law enforcement. The case involves the death of Renee Good and has become a flashpoint in debates over immigration enforcement tactics.

Jesus's Words

"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness."

Matthew 23:23

Why This Quote

Jesus condemned religious leaders who followed minor rules while ignoring justice and mercy. When prosecutors are prevented from investigating a death, the justice system fails its most fundamental purpose. Christ's words remind us that true righteousness requires pursuing justice for all, especially when powerful institutions are involved.

7

Minnesota Church Protest Leads to Three Arrests

Three individuals have been arrested following protests at a Minnesota church, reflecting escalating tensions around religious institutions and social activism. The incident highlights the collision between religious communities and social justice movements. Details suggest the protest involved immigration enforcement policies and sanctuary church debates.

Jesus's Words

"My house will be called a house of prayer, but you are making it 'a den of robbers.'"

Matthew 21:13

Why This Quote

Jesus cleansed the temple because it had strayed from its sacred purpose of worship and become a place of exploitation. When churches become battlegrounds for political conflicts or fail to be sanctuaries for the vulnerable, they lose their essential calling. This quote challenges both protesters and religious institutions to remember what sacred spaces should represent.

8

U.S. and Iran Make Progress in Geneva Talks Amid Ongoing Crisis

American and Iranian officials have conducted negotiations in Geneva showing tentative progress, even as protests in Iran have reportedly killed over 500 people. The diplomatic efforts occur against a backdrop of military posturing and threats of escalation from both sides. The situation represents a delicate moment that could lead either to war or détente.

Jesus's Words

"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God."

Matthew 5:9

Why This Quote

Jesus elevated peacemaking to a divine calling, declaring peacemakers reflect God's character. In a moment when war threatens and hundreds have already died in protests, those working toward diplomatic solutions embody Christ's teaching. Making peace requires courage and wisdom, especially when pressures toward conflict are intense.

9

Death of Young Activist Triggers Protests and Deepens French Divide

The death of a young activist in France has sparked widespread protests and intensified social divisions within the country. The incident has become a symbol of broader frustrations with government policies and social inequality. Demonstrations have spread across French cities as citizens demand accountability and systemic change.

Jesus's Words

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted."

Matthew 5:4

Why This Quote

Jesus acknowledged the pain of loss and promised divine comfort to those who grieve. The death of a young person pursuing justice naturally provokes mourning and anger in a community. Christ's words remind us that grief is sacred and that God sees and cares for those who suffer loss, especially when that loss comes from injustice.

10

Trump Administration Faces Pushback on Sanctuary City Funding Threats

The Trump administration has renewed threats to cut federal funding to sanctuary cities that limit cooperation with immigration enforcement. Democratic leaders in affected cities are largely unmoved by the threats, setting up a constitutional confrontation over federal-local relations. The standoff affects millions of residents in major urban areas and raises questions about the limits of federal coercion.

Jesus's Words

"Give back to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's."

Mark 12:17

Why This Quote

Jesus articulated the tension between earthly authority and divine law, suggesting both have legitimate but limited claims. The sanctuary city debate involves this very tension—when civil authorities conflict, how do communities balance legal obligations with moral convictions about protecting vulnerable immigrants? Christ's wisdom calls for discernment about where ultimate allegiance lies.