Much of the Christian-professing world has been observing Lent, a time of self-denial in preparation for Easter. Interestingly, the day before Lent begins is a time of partying and excess known as Mardi Gras, or “Fat Tuesday,” though most of the participants don’t know why they are celebrating. The next day, Ash Wednesday, begins forty days of “fasting” leading up to Easter. Adherents usually give up some simple pleasure during that time, supposedly harkening back to Jesus’ 40 days of fasting in the wilderness before being tempted by Satan.

United States President Donald Trump recently proposed tariffs against steel and aluminum imports. This has raised the prospect of a “trade war” between the U.S. and nations who export steel and aluminum to American markets. What is a trade war? That’s when one nation imposes taxes on certain goods from another country, and—in retaliation—that country slaps punitive taxes on other goods from the offending nation.

Over the last two years there has been an increased attack on the idea of godly masculinity. The idea of what masculinity is—and the need for it—has been constantly debated. The last presidential campaign highlighted this attack. Even simply not voting for former Secretary of State and U.S. presidential candidate Hillary Clinton was condemned by some as an assault against women. Since the election, extremism among many within the feminist movement has increased in strength and urgency. Many women are being taught that men are the reason for all of their problems.

Archaeologists excavating near the Temple Mount in Jerusalem recently unearthed small, impressed clay pieces (bullae) bearing the seal of King Hezekiah and the name of Isaiah (Biblical Archaeology Review, March-June 2018). The Isaiah bulla was missing a piece which may have had an additional letter.