News and Prophecy Staff

“Australia is surveying the devastation wrought by Cyclone Debbie, which has flooded vast tracts ‘almost the size of Texas’ and left at least three dead” (BBC, April 2, 2017). The aftermath and flooding, as well as the current crop destruction, is estimated to reach AU $1 billion. Tens of thousands have been forced to evacuate their homes, thousands are still without power, and this week, as rivers crest, areas of central Queensland could suffer the worst flooding in 60 years (ibid.).

“The European Commission has put its ‘full support’ behind giving Spain a veto on the economic future of Gibraltar” (EU Observer, April 3, 2017). But “the head of Gibraltar’s government has unequivocally stated that his territory will remain British despite Brexit” (Deutsche Welle, April 3, 2017).

California is a beautiful state, but the crime, traffic and pollution are hardly reflective of Christ’s coming reign. However, a recent event can give us insight into the coming Kingdom of God. “Southern California’s deserts are bursting with color after this winter’s heavy rains brought drought relief to the area. It’s known as a ‘super bloom,’ and one of this caliber hasn’t happened in California’s typically arid deserts in 12 years” (The Weather Channel, March 17, 2017).

According to the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative think tank which has analyzed two years of satellite imagery, “China has largely completed three major military bases in the South China Sea that have naval, air, radar and missile-defence facilities” (The Guardian, March 28, 2017).

On Wednesday, UK Prime Minister Theresa May prepared a letter to EU Council President Donald Tusk, formally notifying him of Britain’s departure from the EU and triggering “article 50(2)” of the Treaty of European Union. In her six-page letter, the prime minister laid out her hopes for a smooth two-year transition, beneficial for both parties, and a positive, future “special relationship” (Telegraph, March 29, 2017).