Today’s Good News at a Glance:

1. Nebraska’s women’s volleyball team hosted the most attended women’s sports game in history.

2. India leads a $7 billion green initiative.

3. We revisit our favorite good news story of last week.

It’s Good News Monday!
We always like to take the beginning of the week to highlight stories of hope, positive change, and milestones. There’s plenty of sad and bad news out there, and those are important to cover. We don’t want to bury our heads in the sand ignorantly and only think positive thoughts. We know that this world has brokenness. But we also need to recognize that there are still moments of triumph, joy, and beauty out there to behold. It’s our earnest prayer that as we consider the good news of Jesus, we will make good news in our communities.

We’re glad you’re here. We pray this take on the news leaves you informed and transformed.

“Do you not know that every race all runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run to get the prize." (1 Corinthians 9:24)

Dear Lord,
Help us to live our lives with intentionality, discipline, and focus, mindful that our earthly journey is akin to a race that requires our best effort. Guide us to prioritize what is eternal, to strive for the prize that doesn't perish but lasts forever—our relationship with You, our Lord and Savior. Grant us the strength and endurance to face the challenges and obstacles that come our way, always keeping our eyes fixed on the heavenly prize. May we not be distracted by the temporal things that can easily weigh us down, but rather, empower us to run the race with perseverance and purpose. Thank you for giving us the stamina and spirit we need to keep running the race that You have set before us. In Jesus’ mighty name, we pray. Amen.

Smaller Bites:

Here’s today’s news: cut short and sweet with a prayer…

1. Huge Spike for Women’s Sports: Nebraska Volleyball’s Record-Breaking Victory

The Nebraska volleyball team set a world record for attendance in women's sports, drawing 92,003 fans for a match against Omaha, breaking the previous record set in Barcelona earlier this year. The significant turnout not only showcased the team's victory but also highlighted the growing commercial viability of women's sports, with ticket resale prices reaching up to $400. The event was a momentous occasion for the team, the state, and the broader world of women's sports, reflecting what can be achieved when community, talent, and passion converge.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the talent and community spirit displayed at this groundbreaking event in Nebraska. We pray that just as these athletes strive for excellence on the court, we too may strive for spiritual excellence in our walk with You. May this milestone inspire young girls and women around the world to aim high, and may we all be encouraged to run the race set before us for Your glory. Amen.

2. India Leads Charge with $7 Billion Investment in 10,000 Electric Buses.

The Indian federal government has approved a $7 billion plan to combat air pollution, with a goal to replace existing fossil fuel buses with 10,000 electric buses across 170 cities. Initiated by Prime Minister Modi, this project aims to reduce both air pollution and the country's carbon footprint, and it will include the development of essential charging infrastructure. The initiative not only promises environmental benefits but also has economic merits, potentially becoming a sustainable model that enhances the quality of life for millions of people by reducing air pollution and healthcare costs.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the wisdom and initiative to care for Your creation. May this ambitious plan to fight air pollution in India serve as an example for nations worldwide, reminding us of our responsibility to be good stewards of the Earth You've entrusted to us. Bless the endeavors to make this project successful, improve the health of millions, and protect the environment for future generations. Amen.

3. Operation Blessing Extends Helping Hands to Maui’s Fire Survivors

Operation Blessing and Harvest Kumulani are offering support and hope to survivors of the devastating wildfire in Lahaina, Maui. As the death toll rises, these Christian organizations provide aid and solace to those affected, demonstrating the power of compassion and unity in times of crisis. Their efforts include practical assistance, such as providing new fishing equipment to a survivor who lost everything and gestures of kindness like free pizza and prayers from a local pizza shop. These acts of compassion and faith showcase the impact of Christian unity in bringing healing and hope to a hurting community.

Dear God, we lift up the survivors of the devastating wildfire in Maui. We thank You for the compassion and unity shown by organizations like Operation Blessing, Harvest Kumulani, and individuals like the Mellos. May their efforts bring comfort, healing, and hope to those affected by the tragedy. We pray for strength and resilience for the survivors as they navigate the challenges ahead. Let their stories inspire us to extend compassion and love to those in need, reflecting Your light in times of darkness. In Jesus' name, amen.

Huge Spike for Women’s Sports: Nebraska Volleyball’s Record-Breaking Victory

LINCOLN, Neb.—In a sport often dominated by towering spikes and ferocious blocks, it's the crowd that set a world record this week. Welcome to "Volleyball Day in Nebraska," where 92,003 fans came together to not just cheer for their home team but also to rewrite the annals of women's sports history.

On a day filled with anticipation, the Nebraska volleyball team vanquished Omaha in a 3-0 sweep, sending ripples through the red-clad stadium and far beyond. Forget about the Rose Bowl's Women's World Cup final in 1999, which drew 90,185 fans. Nebraska just bumped up the game, breaking the previous world record set earlier this year in Barcelona, Spain, of 91,648 attendees. These numbers aren't just digits; they're declarative statements on the growth and commercial viability of women's sports.

"There's a great business case and strategy around women's athletics long term," said Nebraska athletic director and former Huskers football star Trev Alberts. With tickets initially priced at a modest $25 for adults, the resale market saw prices soar up to $400—a testament to the skyrocketing demand. In the economics of sports, the consumer has spoken: women's games are not just an undercard but a main event.

The Nebraska faithful weren't just keen to shatter records; they were invested in a program and a sport that has become part of their state's DNA. As middle blocker Andi Jackson described, "We were walking out of the tunnel after the second set, and we heard on the speaker we had just broken the world record. Everyone was trying to stay locked in, but we were also so excited. I can't describe how grateful I am to be a part of it."

Lexi Rodriguez, a junior player for Nebraska, spoke to the next generation: "When you're little, you have big dreams and big goals. Having this to look up to is something that a lot of little girls will keep in the back of their mind when they're pursuing the sport of volleyball."

Nebraska's monumental achievement didn't just stir emotions within their own team. Coach John Cook, who has been with the Huskers since 2000, stated he shed tears at least five times during the event. "It's so huge for little girls to get to see a women's sport and volleyball being played on this big of a stage," said Rodriguez.

The grand spectacle was not without its quirks. Amid the cheers and adrenaline, players had to adapt to outdoor conditions like wind, depth perception, and unfamiliar terrains for an indoor sport. Think about having all your games in a closed gymnasium, but the most important game of your life is played in an outdoor stadium with a few thousand shy of 100,000 people! But nothing could dampen the spirits of the crowd, the players, and the entire state of Nebraska.

As the game ended, a drone presentation lit up "92,003" next to the stadium's giant video screen, cementing this historic day into the memories of all attendees.

Reflection
As the stands emptied and the stadium lights dimmed, it's easy to draw parallels between the vibrant world of sports and our faith. Like in sports, achieving milestones in our faith journey requires diligence, commitment, and a community cheering us on. Both realms celebrate the pursuit of excellence, not just for personal glory but for the collective upliftment of all.

Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 9:24, "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize." The Nebraska volleyball team and the sea of supporters remind us that we, too, are in a race. A race not for fleeting worldly records but for eternal glory.

In a world where women athletes continually strive for equal footing, this unprecedented event is a testament to what can be achieved when passion, talent, and community converge. Just as the volleyball soars over the net, let us aim for greater heights in our faith, buoyed by the joy and support of our community.

Here's to running the good race, both on the court and in our walk with Christ. Cheers, Nebraska, for setting an example we can all look up to.

India Leads Charge with $7 Billion Investment in 10,000 Electric Buses.

Last week, a breath of fresh air wafted across India as the federal government greenlit a gargantuan plan to combat air pollution in the country. Pledging close to $7 billion, the government aims to replace fossil fuel-consuming buses with 10,000 electric buses across 170 cities. That's right, 10,000—enough buses to fill the parking lots of several football stadiums!

Information Minister Anurag Thakur stated in a briefing that the ambitious plan aims to improve the poor air quality levels in Indian cities, largely attributed to vehicle emissions. With the introduction of electric buses, the government believes it will also reduce the national carbon footprint, a victory for people everywhere.

A Centralized Approach
The wheels were set in motion by Prime Minister Modi, who turned the growing demand for electric buses into a centralized project, inviting companies to bid for government contracts. The project will also ensure the creation of the essential charging infrastructure. It appears that electric is not just a fad—it's the future, and India is stepping up to lead the charge.

The Ripple Effect
India isn't alone in embracing this green revolution. Stateside, a $1.7 billion allocation from the 2021 infrastructure fund signed by President Joe Biden will support the manufacturing and purchase of 1,700 electric or low-emission buses across 46 states. The Department of Transportation (DoT) has further received proposals worth around $8 billion for electrifying America's roadways and plans to award cities with $5 billion in electric transit infrastructure grants in the coming years.

Now there are still a lot of logistics to consider with the EV revolution. Electricity doesn’t appear out of thin air. Building the right infrastructure to support such initiatives are still in question by engineering and energy experts.

Economics Meets Ecology
Historically, economic growth and environmental conservation have often been considered mutually exclusive. However, initiatives like this prove otherwise. Besides the obvious ecological benefits, electric buses offer a viable business case as well. The funding allocated for this project creates an opportunity for manufacturers, employs a workforce for installation and maintenance, and has the potential to become a long-term sustainable model. It's a win-win, where financial profit doesn't come at the planet's expense.

A Local Boost
The benefits don't just stop at the environment or the economy. These eco-friendly buses will likely enhance the quality of life for millions of people. Lower levels of air pollution mean healthier lives, reduced medical expenses, and more public spaces where people can breathe easy—literally!

Reflection
From a Christian standpoint, the biblical mandate to be good stewards of the Earth (Genesis 1:28) comes to mind as we celebrate these positive strides in environmental conservation. Much like the talent parable, we're entrusted with this Earth, and it's our duty to cultivate it wisely. God gives us the Earth's resources, but it's up to us to use them responsibly. Through projects like these, we're sowing seeds of sustainability for future generations.

Air pollution is a Goliath of a problem, but much like David, sometimes all it takes is a well-aimed stone—or in this case, a well-planned project—to tackle it head-on. And when we step up as stewards of the Earth, we're not only fulfilling a biblical duty but also nurturing God's creation for the present and the future.

So, the next time you board an electric bus or witness one zipping by in your city, take a moment to appreciate how each little step we take counts in the grand scheme of things. It's a testament that when we come together, great strides are possible, both in faith and in preserving God's magnificent creation.

Operation Blessing Extends Helping Hands to Maui’s Fire Survivors

In the wake of the devastating wildfire that tore through Lahaina, Maui, leaving destruction and despair in its wake, Operation Blessing and Harvest Kumulani have emerged as beacons of hope and support for survivors. As the death toll rises to 115, with hundreds more still unaccounted for, the true spirit of Christian compassion and unity shines through, bringing aid and solace to those affected.

CBN News embarked on a journey to Lahaina to witness firsthand the incredible efforts being made by Christians to assist survivors in their path to recovery. The charred remnants and the lingering scent of smoke serve as somber reminders of the tragedy that unfolded. Yet, amidst the ruins, stories of resilience, kindness, and faith are emerging, showing the remarkable power of love in times of crisis.

One survivor, Eha Aveado, shared his harrowing experience of escaping the fire. He recounted the moment he opened his door, only to be met with a wall of black smoke. Eha and his two teenage sons lost everything in the blaze, including precious possessions such as their fishing gear. Fishing wasn't just a hobby for Eha; it was a way of life he had passed on to his sons. Amid his loss, Operation Blessing reached out with new fishing equipment – fishing poles, spears, fins, and masks. This gesture provided practical assistance and restored a sense of normalcy and hope to Eha's life. "It gives us a sense of normalcy again," he expressed, highlighting the profound impact of compassionate outreach.

Harvest Christian Fellowship Pastor, Greg Laurie, during his visit to Harvest Kumulani on Maui, reflected on the significance of the church's role in times of crisis. Pastor Greg emphasized the church's responsibility to be present for the community during such challenging moments. He conveyed his belief in the resilience of the people of Maui and the importance of nurturing hope in adversity. "The church is here for such a time as this," he stated, noting that hope often flourishes during challenges. He spoke of the collective effort of believers and the church's outreach to bring help and hope to the people of Maui.

Christian unity has taken many forms, such as the compassionate outreach of Kumulani Chapel members David and Christiane Mello. As owners of Round Table Pizza in Lahaina, the Mellos have offered free pizza and prayers to those impacted by the fire. Their kindness, coupled with heartfelt prayers, is a testament to the profound impact that individuals can have on their community. David Mello expressed their intention to bless everyone who visits their establishment, leaving a positive imprint on their hearts.

The road to recovery for many Maui residents will undoubtedly be arduous, marked by challenges and obstacles that may seem insurmountable. However, the actions of Operation Blessing, Harvest Kumulani, and individuals like the Mellos are making this journey more bearable. A glimmer of hope is rekindled with every hug, prayer, and pizza shared. These acts of kindness provide immediate relief and demonstrate the power of faith in action.

In times of crisis, Christians are called to reflect Christ's love through their actions. The Bible reminds us in Galatians 6:2, "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ." This spirit of compassion and support is vital in fostering resilience and hope among survivors. The unity of believers, exemplified by the efforts of Operation Blessing, Harvest Kumulani, and the Mellos, serves as a reminder of the profound impact that the Christian community can have when working together.

As we witness the incredible efforts made to uplift and restore the lives of those affected by the devastating fire, let us draw inspiration from their example. Let us remember the importance of accountability, compassion, and faith in times of crisis. Through collective action, Christians can bring healing and hope to the darkest circumstances, reflecting Christ's teachings and love to a hurting world.

Thank you for joining us today on PRAY NEWS. It is our aim to be informed and transformed. We pray today you would proceed with hope, love, and determination to be a force for good.