Unrest in Gaza, Earth Shaking and Bomb Scare in the U.S., Tragedy in Chile

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Transcript: 

Good morning, everyone. Today is August 4, 2025, Here’s what happened over this past weekend. 

1. Tennessee Man Found With 14 Explosive Devices
Authorities in Polk County, Tennessee, arrested 54-year-old Kevin Wade O'Neal after discovering 14 improvised explosive devices in his Old Fort home. He was already wanted for making threats against government and law enforcement officials. After his arrest, smoke was seen coming from his bedroom, prompting a bomb squad and federal agents to secure the area.

2. Earthquake Shakes Bergen County, NJ
A 3.0 magnitude earthquake struck Hasbrouck Heights in Bergen County, New Jersey, on Saturday night. The tremor was felt as far as Jersey City and parts of New York City. No injuries or damage were reported, but this marks the second earthquake in the region this year.

3. Deadly Mine Collapse in Chile After Earthquake
Speaking of earthquakes, a 4.2 magnitude tremor caused a collapse at El Teniente, the world’s largest underground copper mine in Chile, killing six miners—five of whom were trapped deep below ground. After a three-day rescue effort, all bodies were recovered. Investigations are underway to determine if the collapse was caused by natural seismic activity or mining operations.

4. Hamas Video Shows Israeli Hostage Digging Grave
Lastly, not only is there a deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza with Palestinian civilians, but on Friday, Hamas released a disturbing video of an emaciated 24-year-old Israeli hostage, being held in a dungeonous tunnel in Gaza, digging what he claims may be his own grave. The footage sparked outrage and sorrow in Israel, leading tens of thousands to call for an end to the war and a resolution to the hostage crisis. 

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I leave you with:

Philippians 4:6-7 

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Until next time…

Sources: 

1. https://ground.news/article/tennessee-police-find-explosive-devices-inside-suspicious-vehicle_1269bd 
2. https://ground.news/article/30-magnitude-earthquake-strikes-new-jersey-tremors-felt-in-parts-of-ny-officials 
3. https://ground.news/daily-briefing/the-bodies-of-all-5-miners-are-found-and-identified-in-chiles-el-teniente-mine-after-collapse 
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