If the last week of news has taught us anything, it’s this: America is juggling more security concerns and political reshuffling than a circus clown with stage fright. From Afghan nationals making threats on TikTok to a loyal Trump-aligned congressman hanging up his boots, the moment feels… busy. And not the peaceful, sipping-sweet-tea-on-the-porch kind of busy.

1. The Afghan Security Cases: A Hard Reality Check

Two recent incidents involving Afghan nationals admitted under Operation Allies Welcome have shaken Americans’ confidence, and rightfully so.

In one case, a man allegedly posted a TikTok video appearing to build a bomb and referencing the Fort Worth area as a target. In another, an Afghan migrant was involved in a serious shooting near the White House. Add to that the revelation that thousands admitted under the 2021 resettlement program were later flagged for national-security concerns, and even the most charitable observer has to admit: our vetting wasn’t just porous. It resembled Swiss cheese after a mouse convention.

Now, compassion is a Christian virtue. The Bible teaches us: “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares” (Hebrews 13:2).

But compassion doesn’t mean we leave the front door wide open and hang a sign that says “Come on in, we hope for the best.” Protecting innocent Americans is also a moral duty. Being wise is a virtue too: “A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself” (Proverbs 22:3).

So yes, help persecuted allies. But also, let’s not treat vetting like an optional side quest. Law-enforcement vigilance worked here, but relying on dumb luck or TikTok confessionals is not a sustainable security strategy.

2. Troy Nehls Retires: Congress Gains a Vacancy

In the political world, we also learned Congressman Troy Nehls is retiring. A strong conservative and a former county sheriff, Nehls was one of those members who reliably planted both boots firmly on the ground and said, “Here’s where I stand, and good luck moving me.”

Now he’s stepping aside, saying he wants to spend more time with his family, which is noble, respectable, and frankly understandable. If I had to deal with Congress every day, I might crawl home begging for a nap and a casserole too.

His seat will likely stay red, especially with his twin brother Trever stepping forward like a political understudy. But Nehls’ departure adds to a noticeable trend: several Republicans have decided that Washington, D.C. is about as fun as dental surgery performed by an intern.

Is this a crisis? No. Is it a sign? Probably. The GOP is shifting, reshaping, realigning. That’s normal. But we’d be foolish not to notice that strong, consistent conservative voices stepping down leaves more room for internal recalibration, for better or worse.

3. The Bigger Picture: Security, Leadership, and National Stability

When you line these stories up, a theme emerges: America needs stability, seriousness, and sober leadership, not chaos, not complacency, and not performative politics.

The Afghan security incidents highlight a weakness in immigration and security processes. Nehls’ retirement highlights another weakness: Congress is losing too many grounded voices who actually understand law enforcement, military service, and local governance.

And here’s the nonpartisan truth: Both Republicans and Democrats helped create these problems. Both have ignored border security at times. Both have mismanaged foreign policy. Both have used immigration as a political football instead of treating it as a national-security obligation. And both have had members who treat campaign finance rules like vague suggestions.

But we cannot afford unseriousness anymore. Whether it’s vetting refugees or vetting congressional candidates, the stakes are real. The threats are real. The consequences are real.

America needs:

• Stronger vetting that respects both compassion and national security.
• Smarter immigration policy, not endless executive Band-Aids.
• Disciplined conservative leadership, not performative outrage.
• A Congress filled with adults, not careerists trying to line their pockets.

The good news? Americans are waking up to the fact that leadership matters again. Real leadership: the kind rooted in truth, responsibility, and yes, sometimes unpopular judgment.

The bad news? We’re still in a transitional moment. And transitional moments are messy.

But as the Psalms remind us: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1)

America’s going to get through this. But it might need to tighten some bolts, firm up its borders, and elect people who prefer service over spotlight.