Rising Pressures and Prices

The month-old U.S.-Iran ceasefire may be nearing its expiration date. 

On Tuesday, President Trump said the temporary truce is on “life support” after rejecting Iran’s latest proposal. Tehran wants Washington to loosen its sanctions and control of the Strait of Hormuz—threatening to “teach a lesson” to anyone who strikes. 

A day earlier, Trump said he’d suspend the national gas tax “for a period of time” to relieve some war-induced pump pressure. If paused—pending congressional approval—it could save gas-guzzlers ~18¢/gallon. According to AAA, gas prices are averaging $4.52/gallon—a ~50% increase since the war started. 

Meanwhile, federal reports have confirmed what Costco receipts have been suggesting: gas isn’t the only pricier product. The consumer price index rose 0.6% in April and 3.8% year-over-year (0.1% higher than economists’ expectations and the highest since May 2023).

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ETERNAL PERSPECTIVE
Even if peace unravels and the economy collapses, God will remain in control. In the midst of uncertainty on earth, set your hope on the everlasting security and abundance we will enjoy with Christ when he comes. 

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead and into an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you.” 
1 Peter 1:3-4 (CSB) (read full passage)