House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Wednesday phoned President Bush to air her complaints over Vice President Dick Cheney's comments that the Congressional Democrats' plan for Iraq would "validate the Al Qaeda strategy." Pelosi, who said she could not reach the president, said Cheney's comments wrongly questioned critics' patriotism and ignored Bush's call for openness on Iraq strategy.
• Father we bind the spirit of disunity in all areas of our government. We ask that wisdom and peace prevail over the thoughts and intents of our leadership. May both parties resolve issues rather than inflame them. • "A soft answer turneth away wrath; but grievous words stir up anger." (Proverbs 15:1)
2. Flow of illegal immigrants to U.S. starts to slow - Int'l Herald Tribune
All along the U.S.-Mexican border, there are signs that the measures that the U.S. Border Patrol and other agencies have taken over the past year, from erecting new barriers to posting 6,000 National Guardsmen as armed sentinels, are beginning to slow the flow of illegal immigrants into the United States.
• We rejoice, Lord, at this tidbit of good news. But we are aware, Father, that the situation is still far from corrected, so we ask that You move to stem the flood of illegal immigrants by Your strategies. We know that only Your strength and power can truly guard our borders. • "My goodness, and my fortress: my high tower and my deliverer; my shield and He in whom I trust." (Psalm 144:2)
3. Kennedy About to Introduce Immigration Reform Bill - CNSNews.com
Senators and lobbyists are putting the final touches on a comprehensive immigration-reform bill that includes an easier citizenship path for illegal aliens and weaker enforcement provisions than were in the highly criticized legislation that the Senate approved last year. Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, the Massachusetts Democrat who ardently supports citizenship rights for illegals, will introduce the bill as early as next week, according to Senate sources knowledgeable about the negotiations. If the Senate Judiciary Committee can make quick work of the bill, it could be ready for floor action in April.
• Father we ask that You directly intervene in the legislation for immigration reform to bring about wisdom and protection for the United States. We ask that the focus of all legislators bring about what is best for our nation, and not any special interests or political agendas. • "To bind his princes at his pleasure; and teach his elders wisdom." (Psalm 105:22)
4. Second Rape Claim Hits Iraqi Troops - AP
Four Iraqi soldiers have been accused of raping a 50- year-old Sunni woman and the attempted rape of her two daughters in the second allegation of sexual assault leveled against Iraqi forces this week, an official said Thursday. The allegation could undermine reputation of Iraq's security services, which U.S. hopes can take over so troops can come home.
• Father we bind the spirit of lust in all of the troops in Iraq, regardless of national background. We ask that Your Holy Spirit arise to bring conviction over all of the people of the region in order to change their hearts. • "And when He is come, He will reprove the word of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment." (John 16:8)
5. Iraqi Militants Use Second Dirty Bomb in Two Days - AP
Insurgents exploded a truck carrying chlorine gas canisters Wednesday — the second such "dirty" chemical attack in two days — while a U.S. official said ground fire apparently forced the downing of a Black Hawk helicopter. All nine aboard the aircraft were rescued. The attacks offer a sweeping narrative on evolving tactics by Sunni insurgents who have proved remarkably adaptable.
• Lord we ask that all hidden stockpiles of chemical weapons and labs of manufacture be revealed, and these evil plans be destroyed quickly. • "For there is nothing covered that shall not be revealed, neither hid, that shall not be known." (Luke 12:2)
6. Rice Calls Coalition "Intact" - Washington Times
The Bush administration maintained yesterday that its Iraq coalition was still in good shape despite announcements by Britain and two other countries that they would withdraw all or some of their troops by the end of the year. "The coalition remains intact," Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said during a visit to Berlin. "It is the plan that -- as it is possible to transfer responsibilities to the Iraqis -- coalition forces would no longer be needed."
• Lord we ask that You stabilize the Iraqi government and their troops to bring about a democratic way of life for the people of the region. We also ask that You intervene to keep media spin from destroying any small victories that may occur in coalition changes. May Your truth and victory prevail over Iraq. • "O let the nations be glad and sing for joy; for Thou shalt judge the people righteously, and govern the nations upon earth." (Psalm 67:4)
