As we step into the second week of January 2026, I find myself reflecting deeply on the stirrings I sense—not just in my own heart, but across the world. There is a palpable movement toward truth, awakening, and perhaps a long-awaited divine reprieve.
Recent events have unfolded with breathtaking speed. On January 3, U.S. forces conducted a major operation in Venezuela, resulting in the capture of long-time leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife, who now face charges in New York. This dramatic shift has sent shockwaves through the region, with Venezuela’s interim leadership releasing political prisoners (including foreigners) and facing new pressures on its alliances. Meanwhile, in Iran, widespread protests—sparked by crushing inflation and economic despair—have escalated dramatically since late December 2025, reaching over a dozen cities by January 8. Demonstrators chant for freedom, with growing calls for the return of the monarchy under Reza Pahlavi, even as the regime imposes nationwide internet blackouts and intensifies crackdowns.
These developments feel interconnected, as if long-suppressed yearnings for truth and liberty are breaking through decades of authoritarian control. Nations with histories of suppression—Venezuela under Maduro’s rule, Iran under its clerical regime—are experiencing intense pressure from within and without. Even China’s alliances in these regions appear strained, with reports of U.S. demands to curb ties with Beijing and others.
From my personal vantage point in Laval, Quebec, I perceive this as more than mere geopolitics. It feels like God’s hand is moving, offering humanity a season of grace and mercy to repent, reevaluate, and turn toward Him. As the Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition reminds us in Isaiah 60:1-3:
“Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD has risen upon you. For behold, darkness shall cover the earth, and thick darkness the peoples; but the LORD will arise upon you, and his glory will be seen upon you. And nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising.”
This promise of light piercing global darkness resonates deeply with the awakening I sense—people from diverse cultures, ethnicities, and backgrounds rising to seek truth and freedom.
On a personal level, this season has brought a profound shift in my own spiritual life. In years past, my faith was marked by zealous performance: diligently praying the Rosary, reciting the Divine Mercy Chaplet, studying Scripture, and immersing myself in theological pursuits. While these practices were sincere, they often felt like striving—rituals to earn closeness to God. Now, after years of inner and outer spiritual battles, I experience something gentler and more intimate: God’s presence accompanying me, not distant but within. A deep peace and calmness have settled in my soul. This echoes St. Paul’s words in Ephesians 2:8-9 (RSV-CE):
“For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not your own doing, it is the gift of God—not because of works, lest any man should boast.”
Salvation and intimacy with God come as His gift, not our achievement. This grace invites us beyond performance into a living relationship where He dwells within, bringing the rest my soul now knows.
Globally, we seem to stand at a similar crossroads. The signs are evident: upheavals that expose long-standing darkness, invitations to choose light over denial. We can respond with curiosity and wisdom—like the Magi who followed the star—or with paranoia and resistance, as King Herod did in Matthew 2 (RSV-CE), fearing the truth rather than embracing it.
This is a worldwide moment, transcending borders, races, and cultures. We are invited to draw near to God, to trust in Him rather than corrupt powers, to serve Him or deny Him. As Acts 3:19-20 (RSV-CE) assures us:
“Repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out, that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus.”
May this time of awakening bring “times of refreshing” to many hearts and nations. I am grateful for the peace I feel and the hope I see rising.
Thanks be to God. 🙏
Be Inspired! 
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