Today we're talking about negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, the tip-off of March madness,

questions about the legitimacy of pardons signed by President Biden, and other top news for Wednesday,

March 19th. Stay informed while remaining focused on Christ with the poor over today.

Here's the quote of the day. It is the most counterintuitive aspect of Christianity

that we are declared right with God,

not once we begin to get our act together,

but once we collapse into honest acknowledgement that we never will.

Dane C. Ortland.

Let's get started with some espresso shots. Let's get started with some espresso shots.

Russia and Ukraine are taking baby steps toward peace.

In Saudi Arabia last week, Ukrainian and American delegates discussed a 30-day peace plan

that Ukraine was ready to accept.

Meetings left the ball in Russia's court, and President Putin acknowledged that the ceasefire's

idea is right, but questions remained about details and enforcement.

President Trump and Putin had a chance to hammer out some details in a nearly three-hour

phone call yesterday. Putin agreed to end strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure,

and the White House said negotiations for a black sea truce and permanent ceasefire will begin

immediately in the Middle East. Negotiators may have a tall task. Ukraine wants security guarantees

to prevent future invasions, while Russia says its key condition is ending all foreign military and intelligence assistance to Kiev.

Christians should be committed to praying for world leaders to be wise and to work toward peaceful resolutions while simultaneously

placing our hope in God, not government. 1 Timothy 2 1 and 2 says, first of all then, I urge

that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all those

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