Sunday, April 29, 2007

National Day of Prayer 2007

National Day of Prayer 2007


The National Day of Prayer tradition predates the founding of the United States of America, evidenced by the Continental Congress' proclamation in 1775 setting aside a day of prayer. In 1952, Congress established an annual day of prayer and, in 1988, that law was amended, designating the National Day of Prayer as the first Thursday in May.

The 56th Annual National Day of Prayer will take place Thursday, May 3, 2007. The theme for this year is "America, Unite in Prayer" and is based on the verse from II Chronicles 7:14 which states: "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." The 2007 Honorary Chairman, Dr. Charles R. Swindoll, will help lead the nation in prayer.

Capitol Hill Prayer Partners would like to encourage ALL OF YOU to seek out and to support activities honoring the National Day of Prayer in your own state. The NDP Task Force has appointed State Prayer Coordinators in all 50 states, who have then worked with other coordinators in each county to bring forth an NDP Observance in keeping with this year's theme.

Knowing the desperate state of our nation at this hour, when we are facing enemies both "within" and "without," it IS time to stop, pause, reflect, and to offer PRAYERS OF REPENTANCE, that God might yet show His mercy upon our people once again.

Mrs. Shirley Dobson, the Chairman of National Day of Prayer 2007, has issued a mandate to all of us:

"AMERICA, UNITE IN PRAYER!"

Amen!

To locate an NDP Observance in your own city, go here.

CHPP Revised Publishing Schedule

CHPP Revised Publishing Schedule

Beginning tonight and continuing through Tuesday, May 8th, 2007, Capitol Hill Prayer Partners will "stand down" from our normal schedule of publications, so that our staff might participate in a variety of activities associated with the National Day of Prayer here in Washington, D.C.

Hence, you will not receive the "OCAP" (On Capitol Hill This Week) OR The Daily Brief anytime this week, nor next weekend. Instead, our Legislative Analyst, Tim McGhee WILL publish another Legislative Update for you over the next weekend.

Our next issue of The Daily Brief will be released on Tuesday, May 8, 2007.


Capitol Hill Prayer Partners: Who We Are

Capitol Hill Prayer Partners: Who We Are

Capitol Hill Prayer Partners was founded on February 24, 1994 with a simple mission: We have been called to "pray for all in authority" on site in Washington, D.C. according to the Scriptural mandate of I Timothy 2:1-2, which reads as follows.

Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.

Capitol Hill Prayer Partners (CHPP) is a 501(c)(3), tax- exempt, faith-based, ministry, which relies solely on the gifts of our readers to continue this work.

Offerings are gratefully accepted and may be made out to: CHPP and mailed to:

CHPP P.O. Box 5152 Herndon, VA 20172

Saturday, April 28, 2007

Friday, April 27, 2007

"Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands." (Deut. 7:9)

Today's Daily Brief - Friday - April 27, 2007

1. NH Approves Civil Unions - CNSNews.com)

In a vote of 14 to 10, the New Hampshire Senate Thursday approved a civil unions bill that grants homosexual couples some of the same legal rights as married heterosexuals.

· Righteous Lord, we ask forgiveness for approving and blessing evil. We grieve as leaders disregard You and the standard of Your Word. Your righteouness is an everlasting righteouness, and Your law is the truth. · "I beheld the transgressors, and was grieved; because they kept not thy word. Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever." (Ps. 119:158,160)

2. 'Hate Crimes' Bill Moving to Full House - (CNSNews.com)

The House Judiciary Committee passed a 'hate crimes" bill Wednesday night - all 23 Democrats in favor, all 17 Republicans opposed. Every Republican attempt to amend the bill was defeated. Critics call it a "thought crimes" bill.

· "The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple. Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me. Deliver me from the oppression of man: so will I keep thy precepts. Make thy face to shine upon thy servant: and teach me thy statues. Rivers of waters run down mine eyes, because they keep not thy law." (Ps. 119:130,133-136)

3. FCC Says Children Still See Too Much Violence On TV - Los Angeles Times

Federal regulators have concluded that Hollywood's efforts to shield children from violent TV shows have failed and that Congress should authorize government action. Citing university and government studies, the FCC concluded that violent programming was harmful to children and said Congress could craft limits that wouldn't violate 1st Amendment rights.

· Pray for the outcome of these studies to be taken seriously. Pray for immediate action to take place that will protect children. · "O let the wickedness of the wicked come to an end; but establish the just for the righteous God trieth the hearts and reins." ( Ps. 7:9)

4. Top General In Iraq Says Sectarian Murders Are Down - CNN

The top U.S. commander in Iraq, Gen. David Petraeus, told reporters that sectarian murders in Baghdad have been reduced by about one-third since the beginning of the year. "That is an important development, because sectarian murders can be a cancer in a neighborhood," he said after separate briefings in the Senate and House on Wednesday. In addition, "progress in Anbar is something that is breathtaking," he said of the vast Sunni-dominated province where many U.S. troop deaths have occurred, including one Monday.

· Give thanks for the good report of progress. Continue to pray protection and success for our troops. Pray for support and power to quickly overcome Al Oaeda. · Let all mine enemies be ashamed and sore vexed: let them return and be ashamed suddenly. ( Ps. 6:10)

5. Deputy Press Secretary Perino: "House Democrats' War Funding Bill 'Is Dead Before Arrival'" - Fox News

"You've heard the phrase that some things are dead on arrival, but this bill is dead before arrival. And the Democrats have known that for weeks - we've said that if the bill contains a surrender date, handcuffs our generals, or [contains] billions in dollars of spending that's outside of the Iraq war supplemental, then the President is going to veto it. I would assume that we would get the bill sometime in the next several days, after the Senate votes today, and then the President will veto it. And then I would imagine that you would see him meet with the Congressional leadership quickly so that we can figure out a way that they're going to get the President a bill that he can sign.

· Father, we continue to come before Your throne asking for victory over the war on terror. We ask for leaders to have a heart toward a clear-cut victory and not a time table. Encourage our nation with the objectives that have been accomplished. Strengthen us with a desire to stand with Iraq until they can stand alone in securing their nation. · And I will strengthen them in the LORD; and they shall walk up and down in his name, saith the Lord. (Zec. 10:12)

6. U.S. And Japan Sign Nuclear Power Pact - Los Angeles Times

The Bush administration's plan to rapidly expand global nuclear energy took a key step Wednesday when the government signed an agreement with Japan to conduct joint research on a new generation of reactors and a new type of nuclear fuel. The agreement with Japan is the first formal international deal under the program, known as the Global Nuclear Energy Partnership. The program would make the U.S. a more important player in the worldwide nuclear building boom, in which 222 new reactors are planned, said Assistant Energy Secretary Dennis Spurgeon. The administration is seeking a major expansion of nuclear power as a way to reduce production of greenhouse gases linked to global warming.

· We pray for this joint research to carry the responsibility, integrity and wisdom to be a blessing to the world. May You, O Lord, grant leaders to have a heart in unity for the well being of all people, as they build this new foundation. · Let integrity and uprightness preserve me; for I wait on thee. The integrity of the upright shall guide them: (Ps. 25:21, Prov. 11:3a)

7. First Democratic Debate Focused on Iraq - CBN News

Democratic presidential hopefuls flashed their anti- war credentials Thursday night, robustly criticizing President Bush's Iraq policy in an unusually early first debate of the 2008 campaign.

· Clearly, this is not an issue that is going to go away soon. Offer repentance that presidential candidates on both sides of the aisle are turning this war into a "political football" -- especially while the lives of our brave soldiers are on the line. Pray that each one will begin to get a "kingdom perspective" on this war on terror -- for His Kingdom IS coming and will root out all evil in time. · "I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent (our part), ye shall all likewise perish." (Luke 13:5)

Students Urged To Stop Playing 'Assassin' Game

Students Urged To Stop Playing 'Assassin' Game

After the horrors of the Virginia Tech massacre, a popular game on campuses nationwide called "Assassin" is raising concerns and prompting warnings from police.

Officers in three communities in Illinois and Pennsylvania urged students to halt the games, which involve ambushing other players with sometimes realistic-looking toy guns or other objects, after the Virginia Tech shooting last week that left 33 people dead.

"Assassin," according to police and players interviewed this week, is a game in which players have the goal of "killing" or eliminating other players while avoiding similar attacks on themselves. Typically each player is assigned a target, who can be attacked with a designated "weapon" during certain times of day or night, usually outside of classrooms or after school. When successful, the player receives a new target; the eliminated player is out of the game. The "winners" are the last player standing and in some cases also the player who scored the most "kills." Often a pool of money is split among the winners. A typical game can last for days or weeks.

Police say they worry that players, mostly college and high school students, would be mistaken for real-life killers, endangering themselves and others. "Virginia Tech has heightened everyone's concern and alerted them to what's going on in the country," said Leland Grove, Ill., Police Chief Mark Gleason. "It's just terrible."

Students themselves in some instances have halted games in light of the Virginia Tech shootings. "Just out of taste we decided to cancel for this year," said Trey Keeler, a junior at Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia, who was overseeing the game played by more than 80 of the 1,060 students. "I hope it's just a localized anomaly," he said. "I don't think it will affect things in the long run. But definitely people will have to re-evaluate how they play the game."

Ryan Mulligan, a University of Illinois junior, runs an Internet site that manages and keeps records of Assassin games, www.campusassassins.com. He said the site is overseeing more than 50 games at college campuses in the USA, Canada and England and has seen "a downturn" in games on the site since the Virginia Tech killings. (USA Today)

· Dear Lord, how much longer will America and its youth continue it its demonic fascination with the demon of death? Please send Your Holy Spirit to invade our nation so that it can be released from this culture of death, and any other satanic fiery darts that are aimed at us to destroy us! May You continue to comfort all those who have lost loved ones in school shootings. · "For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and deep darkness the people; but the Lord will arise over you, and His glory will be seen upon you." (Isaiah 60: 2 NKJV)

Brownback Reintroduces Jeruasalem Resolution

Brownback Reintroduces Jeruasalem Resolution

Calls for Jerusalem as undivided Israeli capital, moving U.S. embassy to Jerusalem

U.S. Senator Sam Brownback today reintroduced the Jerusalem Resolution, a joint resolution that would recognize Jerusalem as the undivided capital of Israel and would require moving the United States Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.

"Jerusalem has been the capital of the Jewish people for 3,000 years, and is the seat of the State of Israel's government, parliament, and supreme court," Brownback said. "Yet, Israel remains the only country in which the United States does not place its embassy in, nor does it recognize, the city designated as the capital by the host country. The time has come to fix this longstanding inconsistency. We must resolve this issue before any final peace settlement between Israel and the Palestinians."

Brownback has sponsored similar legislation in previous sessions of Congress. In 2004, Brownback traveled to Israel and addressed the Knesset and voiced his support for the State of Israel and the Jewish people.

Special Alert!! Hate Crimes Bill!!

[Note: the Hate Crimes Bill is due to go to the floor of the House next week for a vote. This is a very dangerous bill for those of us who desire to walk in the integrity of our faith. Please note the commentary below by Bill Wilson, and pray accordingly. We will try to have more news on this bill next week, as it develops.]


Hate Crimes Bill Continues Revolution Against Constitutional Freedom

The Pelosi social democratic revolution continued this week as the powerful House Judiciary Committee passed by a 20-14 vote the most wide sweeping hate crimes legislation in history-a bill that if it became law would establish homosexuals as a protected class of people and challenge the very constitutionality of free speech and religious freedom. The bill would make it a federal crime to speak out against homosexuality because it criminalizes the "actual or perceived" prejudice of the person committing the hate crime. If a homosexual "perceives" he is threatened by a statement, or a look, or an attitude, and the court agrees, the purveyor of this so-called crime will go to jail for up to 10 years.

The bill mentions the phrase "actual or perceived" no less than eight times. The preamble to the legislation, without citing any statistical evidence, states that hate crimes are being perpetrated in such great numbers that federal law is no longer adequate to "address the problem." The bill claims that even communities are involved in these crimes by saying, "A prominent characteristic of a violent crime motivated by bias is that it devastates not just the actual victim and the family and friends of the victim, but frequently savages the community sharing the traits that caused the victim to be selected."

This bill not only is a forerunner to setting up a police state where entire communities could be targeted and, perhaps forced, to take homosexuality sensitivity training, or face prosecution, but it also establishes that more than just the victim of the actual or perceived crime can also be perceived harmed by the same crime. This bill sets the stage for judges and lawyers to interpret its intent in a way that could result in prosecuting entire communities for the perception of being against homosexuality. It parallels the radical Gay Lesbian Straight Education Network's reasoning for demanding sexual orientation sensitivity training in schools where students speak poorly of homosexuals.

This fascist legislation is carefully written to use federal funds and federal jurisdiction to eliminate resistance against the social democratic revolution. Listen, these are not normal legislators doing normal legislation. This bill and other recent actions are part of a strategic implementation of a revolution designed to ravage the Constitutional Republic of the United States of America and replace it with a social democracy, meaning socialism or communism, and mandating state atheism. These people will not listen to you when you call their offices, they are revolutionaries bent on a coup. Matthew 24:4 says, "Take heed that no man deceive you." Your freedom is under siege. You must act NOW.

Bill Wilson

Word of Life Ministry

www.dailyjot.com

Thursday, April 26, 2007

Today's Daily Brief - April 26, 2007

Click on photo

1. Senate OKs Iraq Pullout, Sets Up Veto Showdown
- AP

President Bush accused Democratic lawmakers of trying to make a political statement with their war- funding bill that sets a timetable for withdrawing troops from Iraq and he vowed again to veto it. I'm disappointed that the Democratic leadership has chosen this course, Mr. Bush said. They chose to make a political statement, he said. That's their right but it is wrong for our troops and it's wrong for our country. To accept the bill proposed by the Democratic leadership would be to accept a policy that directly contradicts the judgment of our military commanders.

· Father we thank you that President Bush will veto this timetable attempt. We ask for a change in the funding package that would meet the needs of our troops without restrictions that cause harm to the security not only of Iraq but the entire Middle East and U.S. as well. · "For You have armed me with strength for the battle; You have subdued under me those who rose against me." (2 Samuel 22:40)

2. Bush Orders VA, Military To Cooperate On Care - The Washington Post

President Bush last night ordered the Pentagon and Department of Veterans Affairs to come up with a joint process for establishing the level of disability of injured service members, and to implement other recommendations from a presidential task force. Those recommendations, the latest military health- care reform promised by the Bush administration, are intended to 'streamline' the care and benefits given to veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, said Veterans Affairs Secretary Jim Nicholson, who chaired the task force.

· We thank you Lord, for the revelation of problems within the health care system of our Armed Forces, and for ideas for change to that system. We ask that these proposals be without political agenda, and be a positive, life-saving change for our veterans. · "The Lord is gracious and full of compassion." (Psalm 111:4)

3. At Capitol, Cheney Leads GOP Attack On Reid - Roll Call
..
In a rare news conference in the Capitol following the weekly Republican Conference luncheon, Cheney told reporters that Reid's Monday speech on Iraq policy was "troubling" because of its 'defeatism' and charged that Reid was using the issue to better position his party to pick up seats in the upcoming election. "It is cynical to declare the war is lost because you believe it gives you political advantage," Cheney said, noting that Reid and other Democratic leaders have predicted they would pick up seats in 2008 because of the war.

· We rebuke the spirit of pacifism within our Congress, and declare that it is YOU who are defeated! We stand firmly against the words of Senator Reid and rebuke this defeatism in the Name of Jesus! We declare that this battle in Iraq and against terrorism belongs to the Lord. Father, we cover Vice President Cheney with the Blood of Jesus to protect him from the obvious intent of the enemy to destroy him. · "He who troubles his own house will inherit the wind and the fool will be servant to the wise of heart." (Proverbs 11:29)

4. Congressional Panels Ramp Up Bush Probes of Bush Administration - AP

In rapid succession, congressional committees Wednesday ramped up their investigations of the Bush administration by approving a subpoena for Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice, and granting immunity to a former key aide, Monica Goodling, to Attorney General Alberto Gonzales for her testimony on why the administration fired eight federal prosecutors. By 21-10, the House oversight committee voted to issue a subpoena to Rice to compel her story on the Bush administration's claim, now discredited, that Iraq was seeking uranium from Africa.

The House oversight committee also issued subpoenas for the Republican National Committee for testimony and documents about White House e-mails on RNC accounts that have apparently gone missing. Simultaneously, the Senate Judiciary Committee approved - but did not issue - a subpoena on the prosecutors' matter to Sara Taylor, deputy to presidential adviser Karl Rove.

· Gracious Lord, the attacks on the Bush Administration continue to rage like a flood! We Claim Your protective promises for America and the Bush Administration, found in Isaiah, that You will be Zion's and our Redeemer! · "So shall they fear the Name of the Lord from the West, and His glory from the rising of the sun; when the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him." (Isaiah 59: 19 NKJV)

5. Brownback rescinds immigration bill support - Washington Times

Republican presidential hopeful Sen. Sam Brownback said yesterday he no longer supports the immigration overhaul bill that he helped pass in the Senate. "I would not vote for the same bill," Mr. Brownback told reporters yesterday morning, saying that after the bill passed the Senate he had a chance to study its effects and decided it led to too much immigration.

It's a major reversal for a man who is listed as one of seven original sponsors of the bill, along with Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, Massachusetts Democrat, and Sen. John McCain, Arizona Republican, who spearheaded the bill.

· Offer praise for the humility of Senator Brownback, and for his careful consideration of all the ramifications of this mammoth bill. Illegal immigration is a vast and a very complex issue, and one which must be approached carefully and SLOWLY before laws are passed to change current policy. The Bush administration is urging passage of a "comprehensive immigration package" this year. Lift up prayer that many others will adopt the "go slow" approach of this senator before any new immigration laws are passed. · "Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye judges of the earth. Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him." (Psalm 2:10-12)

6. Khalilzad Says Mideast Top U.N. Priority - (AP)

Zalmay Khalilzad, the new U.S. ambassador to the U.N., said Tuesday the future of the Middle East is "the defining challenge of our time," just as Europe's security problems challenged the world for much of the 20th century. Khalilzad, a veteran diplomat who recently stepped down as U.S. ambassador to Iraq, also called for greater U.N. involvement in Iraq and urged Sudan to accept a joint U.N.-African Union force in conflict-wracked Darfur.

· Father, while we seek peace in the Middle East, and also an end to the suffering in Darfur, we ask that You provide an ambassador to the U.N. that is firmly aware that the organization is inherently flawed. We pray for a new representative who stands firmly for Your Word alone, and for Israel and the United States as Your nations. We pray for forgiveness over Mr. Khalilzad, that You would bring him into the salvation of Christ. · "He who rules over men must be just, ruling in the fear of the Lord." (2 Samuel 23:3b)

7. Rice To Hold New Meetings With Israelis, Palestinians - Agence France- Presse

US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice will return to the Middle East next month for a new round of peacemaking talks with Israeli and Palestinian leaders, her spokesman said Tuesday. Rice will meet with Israeli and Palestinian officials in mid- May 'to see if we can find a way forward to try to bring peace to that region," Sean McCormack said.

· Father as we pray for the peace of Jerusalem, and stand with our brothers and sister in the Middle East, we pray that You will intervene against any peace proposal that compromises the security and safety of Israel. We ask that Your lands be preserved and protected against the encroachment of those who seek to destroy Your people. We bind the spirit of intimidation and murder which constantly attacks Israel, and ask that Your Spirit move over the land like a mighty wind. · "Let all those who hate Zion be put to shame and turned back." (Psalm 129:5)

The Middle East in Focus

The Middle East in Focus

This week, for all the headlines cited below, please join us in proclaiming THIS DECREE:

The LORD said to Abram after Lot had parted from him, "Lift up your eyes from where you are and look north and south, east and west. All the land that you see I will give to you and your offspring forever." (Genesis 13:14-15)

1. PMO: Israel rules out large-scale Gaza offensive for time being - Ha'aretz

The Prime Minister's Office issued a statement Wednesday saying Israel would not carry out a large- scale ground offensive in the Gaza Strip.

2. Qassam fired from Gaza despite truce declaration - Ynet News

Members of the Salah al-Din Brigades fired a Qassam rocket at the western Negev Thursday morning. The rocket landed in an open area, and no damage or injuries were reported.

3. Iranian official: We'll strike Israel, US targets if attacked - Jerusalem Post

Iran's deputy interior minister, Muhammad Baqer Zolqadr, said Thursday that his country would attack Israel and American targets throughout the world if Teheran were attacked over its nuclear program, Israel Radio reported.

Today's Daily Brief - April 25, 2007

1. House Passes War Funding Bill With Troop Pullout Demand - The White House, ABC News

With protesters shouting "Troops home now!" to back Democratic demands, the House late on Wednesday, passed a $124.2 billion war-funding bill that would require troop withdrawals to begin Oct. 1 with the goal of completing the pullout six months later. Bush has promised to veto the bill and has enough Republican votes to sustain his objection.

Democrats brushed off a White House veto threat and pleas for patience from the top U.S. commander in Iraq Wednesday, General David Petraeus, and pushed toward a vote demanding that troops begin coming home this fall. Their insistence guarantees a historic showdown with President Bush, the first on the war since Democrats took control of Congress in January.

· Please pray for President Bush and our nation as it heads down this dark passage in its history of being the "Land of the Free and the Brave." · "Behold, the Lord's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; nor His ear heavy, that it cannot hear." (Isaiah 59: 1 NKJV)

2. Independent Counsel to Investigate Karl Rove, Missing White House E-Mails - Fox News

The Office of Special Counsel will take a close look at the last six years of White House political operations under the oversight of President Bush's adviser Karl Rove. The new investigation, which will examine the firing of at least one U.S. attorney, missing White House e-mails, and White House efforts to keep presidential appointees attuned to Republican political priorities, could create a substantial new problem for the Bush White House.

· Karl Rove is in a state of wanting to know the Lord. Pray that he will yield to God's plan and not his own. May he and the Bush administration be saved from its enemies! · "Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry, and He will say, 'Here I am.'" (Isaiah 58: 9a NKJV)

3. Spitzer Plans To Introduce Same Sex Marriage Bill, While "Gay-Rights" Proposals Gain In Congress - American Center for Law and Justice, CNS News, Boston Globe, NY Times

New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer will introduce a bill in the coming weeks to legalize same-sex marriage in New York before adjournment in June, his spokeswoman said Friday; a move that would propel New York to the forefront of one of the most contentious issues in politics. This coming Tuesday, May 1st is targeted as a major lobbying day for same sex marriage by homosexual groups in the New York Assembly.

Meanwhile, homosexual activists are watching several key bills move through the Democrat-controlled Congress, a development that could result in the greatest expansion of federal protections for gays and lesbians in U.S. history. This week, a key House committee is set to approve a measure that would in some cases make hate crimes based on a victim's sexual orientation a federal offense, as are crimes committed on the basis of the race or religion of the victim. Also, a bipartisan group of House members introduced a bill yesterday that would ban workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Both pieces of legislation are on track for congressional approval in the coming months.

They also have set their sights on equal tax treatment of domestic partnership benefits -- the Internal Revenue Service considers such benefits taxable income, unlike benefits available to heterosexual spouses -- and to repeal the armed forces' "don't ask, don't tell" policy.

· Dear God, what Lawrence v. Texas has wrought! Please release our country from the demons of homosexuality, pride, arrogance and any others, including abortion; that indwell the extreme left. ·"Their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed innocent blood; their thoughts are thoughts of iniquity; wasting and destruction are in their paths." (Isaiah 59: 7 NKJV)

4. Mexico City Legalizes Abortion - CBN News

In a Tuesday vote to make abortion legal, Mexico City lawmakers set forth legislation that is expected to set forth a new wave of policies and health programs not only throughout the nation, but in other parts of Roman Catholic Latin America, as well.

· May Your Church finally rise up and call abortion murder! May the killing of the innocents stop, Dear Jesus; and the abortionists and their enablers be frozen from any more destruction! May Mexico City be forgiven for this abomination. · "For your hands are defiled with blood, and you fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies, your tongue has muttered perversity." (Isaiah 59: 3 NKJV)

The Middle East in Focus

The Middle East in Focus

This week, for all the headlines cited below, please join us in proclaiming THIS DECREE:

The LORD said to Abram after Lot had parted from him, "Lift up your eyes from where you are and look north and south, east and west. All the land that you see I will give to you and your offspring forever." (Genesis 13:14-15)

[All items below come from ICEJ News.]

1. Hamas launches cross-border rocket attack on Israel

Coinciding with Israeli Independence Day, Hamas terrorists in the Gaza Strip launched a heavy barrage of rockets and mortars into Israel on Tuesday, in what IDF officials are saying was an attempt to kidnap an Israeli soldier under cover of the missile fire. Hamas claimed its operatives fired as many as 41 Kassam rockets and 61 mortar shells at Israel in the attack.

2. Syria prepping forces, making homefront battle- ready
.. representative of Syrian capabilities - thanks to Iran.
According to a report in Ha'aretz, the Syrian army is increasing its battle readiness by increasing rocket and missile production, emergency stores, and acquiring more weapon systems from Iran. Damascus has reportedly purchased a large number of advanced anti-tank missiles from Russia, with whom it is also negotiating the purchase of Russia's latest anti-aircraft missiles.

3. Former Israeli-Arab MK suspected of aiding Hizb'Allah

Azmi Bishara, an Israeli-Arab and former member of Knesset, is suspected of having aided Israel's enemies during the Second Lebanon War, according to a report in The Jerusalem Post.

4. IDF: No alternative for security fence

Despite protests by environmental groups and orders by Defense Minister Amir Peretz to come up with "technological alternatives," the IDF, a senior officer told The Jerusalem Post over the weekend, has decided there is no choice but to construct a physical structure along the 30 kilometers of the security barrier that run through the Judean Desert.

Iran in the News

Iran in the News

""But do not be afraid of them; remember well what the LORD your God did to Pharaoh and to all Egypt." (Deuteronomy 7:18 )

1. Iran, EU may redefine 'enrichment' - Washington Times

The United States and the European Union are willing to consider an Iranian proposal that would allow the country to keep some of its uranium-enrichment program intact instead of dismantling it diplomats said yesterday.

2. Iran, U.S. Clash Near Iraqi Border - MENL

U.S. government sources said Iranian and U.S. troops have increased their presence along both sides of the Iraqi border. The sources said both sides have sought to expand intelligence and commando operations.

3. British Navy Resumes Gulf ship missions- BBC

The Royal Navy has resumed boarding operations in the northern Gulf for the first time since the capture of its personnel by Iran. The missions were suspended after 15 UK sailors and marines were detained by Iranian forces in March.

4. Syrian Delegation on Secret Mission to Teheran - DEBKAFile

Led by Maj. Gen. Yahya L. Solayman, War Planning chief at the Syrian armed forces General Staff, the delegation represents all branches of the Syrian armed forces. (here.)

Wednesday, April 25, 2007

Today's Daily Brief

The Daily Brief
Tuesday, April 24, 2007

"Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands." (Deut. 7:9)

1. Virginia Tech Classes Resume for First Time Since Shooting - AP

Classes at Virginia Tech resumed Monday one week since a gunman opened fire on the Blacksburg, Va., campus, killing 32 people.

· Lord, we pray for Your peace - which passes all understanding to be upon everyone associated in any way with Virginia Tech and Blacksburg during this time of mourning for them. We pray for those who have fear to be able to focus on You instead!

· But my eyes are upon You, O God the Lord; In You I take refuge; Do not leave my soul destitute. Keep me from the snares they have laid for me, and from the traps of the workers of iniquity. Let the wicked fall into their own nets, While I escape safely. (Psalms 141:8,10)

2. Democrats' Bill Addresses Background Checks for Gun Buyers - CNSNews.com

Two congressional gun-control advocates plan to introduce a bill that would provide "huge incentives" for states to automate their criminal history records, so people who shouldn't have guns can't get them legally, they said. Sen. Chuck Schumer and Rep. Carolyn McCarthy, both New York Democrats, said their legislation would provide $250 million to state agencies and $125 million to state courts for computer upgrades that would "ensure speedy delivery of information" to the FBI.

· We pray, Lord, that there will not be any abuse or over-reaction to this tragedy in Virginia Tech - but that everyone will have Your wisdom about which laws need to be enacted! We pray that vigilant people will watch over this issue very, very carefully.

· And the man who stood among the myrtle trees answered and said, "These are the ones whom the Lord has sent to walk to and fro throughout the earth." So they answered the Angel of the Lord, who stood among the myrtle trees, and said, "We have walked to and fro throughout the earth, and behold, all the earth is resting quietly." (Zechariah 1:10,11)

3. VA Settlement Allows Wiccan Pentacle on Soldiers' Graves - AP

In a settlement announced Monday between the Department of Veterans Affairs and Wiccans, the Wiccan pentacle has been added to the list of emblems allowed in national cemeteries and on the gravestones and grave markers of fallen soldiers.

· Lord, we pray that there will not be any more erosion in our nation of Christian values. We bind in Jesus' name all influences that would come upon our nation to turn away us away from God and we release our nation to wholeheartedly want to know, serve , and love You!

· There shall not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, or one who practices witchcraft, or a soothsayer, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer . . . For these nations which you will dispossess listened to soothsayers and diviners; but as for you, the Lord your God has not appointed such for you. (Deuteronomy 18:10,14)

4. Washington governor OKs domestic partnerships - Washington Times

Gov. Christine Gregoire signed into law yesterday a measure to create domestic partnerships, giving homosexual couples some of the same rights that come with marriage.

· Lord, we pray for the blinders to be taken off of people who are in a homosexual union and those who support these unions and partnerships.

· Be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness. (Ephesians 4:23)

5. Former U.S. Nuke Plant Engineer Allegedly Took Access Codes to Iran - Fox News

A former engineer at the nation's largest nuclear power plant has been charged with taking computer access codes and software to Iran and using it to download details of plant control rooms and reactors, authorities said. The FBI said there's no indication the plant employee training software had any terrorist connections. Mohammad Alavi, who worked at the triple-reactor Palo Verde power plant west of Phoenix, was arrested April 9 at Los Angeles International Airport when he arrived on a flight from Iran.

· We pray that any and every thing that has slipped through to our nation's enemies will not be able to be used against us. We pray for a continued hedge of protection around our nation, our allies, and everything that pertains to us. Lord, let us be vigilant about everything that concerns us.

· Have You not made a hedge around him, around his household, and around all that he has on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land. (Job 1:10)

6. Russia and Iran sign protocol on payment for nuclear plant - Ha'aretz

The Russian contractor building Iran's Bushehr nuclear power station said on Sunday the two sides had signed a protocol outlining what measures should be taken to guarantee payments for the project.

· We pray for the leadership of Russia and especially for President Putin to be saved. Just as Paul was knocked off his horse, let them have a Damascus experience and let them be faithful and obedient to the Lord forever more. Without the Lord, it is impossible to do righteous things!

· And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, "Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit." (Acts 9:17)

The Middle East in Focus

The Middle East in Focus

This week, for all the headlines cited below, please join us in proclaiming THIS DECREE:

The LORD said to Abram after Lot had parted from him, "Lift up your eyes from where you are and look north and south, east and west. All the land that you see I will give to you and your offspring forever." (Genesis 13:14-15)

1. Israel: 3,500 Years Old, 59 Years Young - Arutz Sheva

Jews and others around the world are celebrating the 59th birthday of the re-birth of the Jewish State. The faith and fears that faced the Jews in their 3,500-year history remain today.

2. Olmert Stresses 'Concessions' for Peace - AP

Prime Minister Ehud Olmert marked Israel's Memorial Day for fallen soldiers Monday with a new call for peace with the Palestinians, saying his country was prepared to make "far-reaching compromises" and "very painful concessions."

3. Army chief: We shall not back down if war is forced on us - Ynet News

Israelis across the country stood for a minute of silence at 8 pm Sunday, when the siren marking the opening of Memorial Day was sounded.

4. Hamas fires rockets at Israel - Ynet News

Palestinian gunmen in the northern Gaza Strip fired rockets and mortar shells at Israel on Tuesday morning, security officials said.

5. Hizbullah leader declares: We get our orders from Teheran - Worthy News

In a 15 April interview with the Iranian Arabic language TV station 'al Qawthar', Hizbullah Deputy Secretary- General Naim Kassem, told the interviewer that suicide bombings, terrorist attacks and even artillery barrages against Israeli civilians all receive prior approval from the Ayatollah's in Teheran.

Senate Hate Crimes Bill -

Senate Hate Crimes Bill

Scores of ex-homosexuals came to Washington this week, led by Alan Chambers, President of Exodus International, to join with leading pastors and representatives of the Family Research Council to urge Congress to reject the Hate Crimes legislation sponsored by Sens. Ted Kennedy (D-MA) and Gordon Smith (R-OR). A planned press conference was cancelled in order to honor the students slain at Virginia Tech, but ex-gay citizen lobbyists fanned out across Capitol Hill to share their message with Congress.

S. 1105 is now named after Matthew Shepard, a homosexual college student whose murder shocked the country. It would treat "sexual orientation" and "gender identity" (i.e., cross-dressing and sex- change operations) as "protected classes" and make a crime motivated by prejudice, a federal offence. An offender's religious opinions about homosexuality could therefore be on trial and special punishments rendered against him. The bill, if passed, would elevate homosexuals as higher class citizens above the elderly, children, women and all other people who do not have special treatment under the law. Instead of ending discrimination, this bill helps to create a new caste system in America that gives special treatment to persons because of their sexual behavior - a behavior that just a few years ago, was a criminal offense in many states. The House Hate Crimes bill is H.R. 1592.

· Pray that God will stir the Church and the American people to understand the threat that Hate Crimes laws really are. May sufficient numbers stand to say "NO!" to the Congresmen, and may the bill be defeated. May the President be courageous and stand ready to veto, should the bill somehow pass. (Josh 23:6; Pr 17:15; Is 5:20; Rom 1:26-32)

(Source: Family Research Council: Prayer Targets)

More Effforts to Restrain Grassroots Lobbying

More Efforts to Restrain Grassroots Lobbying

Dr. Dobson informed his radio listeners this week that an effort is afoot to bring a surprise bill to the House floor that would contain language similar to that removed from S.1. earlier this year - language that would radically hinder organizations like FRC from getting information to you about legislation and urging you to contact your Senator or Congressman. Failure to follow expensive requirements that would also hinder speedy and timely communications to grassroots would prove costly, carrying fines up to $100,000. Another bill, H.R. 984, intended to require greater transparency by Congress and the Executive Branch will require burdensome regulations to manage communications from individual citizens sharing their views with Congressional or Executive agencies.

· May God intervene, as he did with S.1. to gut or kill H.R. 984 and any other bills intended to silence or restrain grass roots citizens and organizations like FRC that serve them. (1 Sam 2:7-10; Ps 144:5-8)

(Source: Family Research Council: Prayer Targets)

Tuesday, April 24, 2007

400th Anniversary of the Founding of Jamestown -

400th Anniversary of the Founding of Jamestown

Reviewing the Historical Record


April 24th, 2007

"Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands." (Deut. 7:9)


REVIEWING THE HISTORICAL RECORD

REVIEWING THE HISTORICAL RECORD

Beginning this weekend and continuing through the weeks ahead, America will celebrate the 400th Anniversary of the first landing of the English at Jamestown, Virginia: April 29, 1607. On that date, kneeling in humility, Pastor Robert Hunt prayed to dedicate the New World to God. Today, Christians across the nation will commemorate that date by joining in prayer, and by signing a covenant to rededicate this land back to our Lord. Praise God!

Below please find the list of prayer requests issued by the leadership of The Assembly 2007 on behalf of these events, as well as a link to go to so that you can align yourself in repentance and in the signing of the covenant to rededicate ourselves and this land back to the Lord Jesus Christ.

However, please permit us first to review the historical record of our nation's founding by presenting a few other facts for your prayerful consideration. We do this, "speaking the truth in love" so that we might all be aligned in the fullness of the truth of the history of Christianity in America. We do this, too, knowing that there were indeed others who explored this continent throughout the 1500's, some of whom also dedicated the land to their own faith -- especially Jesuit priests and explorers from Spain. But for today, we turn to the French . . .

1. While the landing at Jamestown was the first one cited by the English, it was not the first landing by Christian men and women on our soil. The first landing took place 42 years earlier, when 300 Christian (Huguenot) colonists from France in northern Florida (now Jacksonville) came here in order to freely practice the faith and teachings of John Calvin, and others.

2. Hence, the first landing by Christians on our land did not take place on April 29, 1607, but instead on June 30, 1564; this was accomplished after an exploratory scouting by the French on May 1, 1562 (when the land was also dedicated to our Lord).

3. Like the English, the French came here for religious freedom, fleeing the sword of the Inquisition at that time. And like the English, the French -- upon landing -- dedicated their lives and this land to the Lord Jesus Christ.

4. Like the English, the French founded a settlement in present-day Jacksonville called Fort Caroline, where they worshipped the God of Jacob, and ceased all labor daily at noon to pray, to worship, and to study the Word of God.

5. The Spanish also came here in 1565, on orders of King Philip II, to "take care of the French problem." In so doing, they established the city of St. Augustine, Florida on September 8,1565.

6. Unlike the Jamestown settlement, which eventually disappeared, St. Augustine can still be visited today -- the oldest and the "first city" in our nation.

7. And finally, unlike the English, who lived out their lives in Virginia, the French did meet the Sword of the Inquisition on the sandy shores of northern Florida in three episodes in the fall of 1565. At issue were questions of land rights and religion; in the end, almost all who came died by the sword, in defense of our faith.

Therefore, the French Huguenots who settled in northern Florida in 1564 and who met their deaths in 1565, were the first Christian martyrs on our continent. Their blood was shed quietly on those sands; and their memories have been forgotten by most.



So today, while we certainly honor the great contribution of the English of Jamestown to our history, we wish to also honor the memory of those martyrs who preceded them. We believe that, because that blood was shed for the Cross of Christ in 1565, the heavens over the Atlantic Ocean were "ripped open" one generation later and the way was made straight for others to carry the seeds of the gospel to this continent in 1607, because it is written:

"They overcame him through the Blood of the Lamb, through the Word of their testimony, and they loved not their lives unto death." (Revelation 12:11)

And so, one generation later, they came . . . from England . . . and the rest of our great historical record began to be written on our land.

(For more information on the hidden French chapter of our American history, please go to: http://www.christfellowship-lc.org/matanzas.htm Thank you!)

Sara Ballenger, Founder and President
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners

THE FAITH AND THE PRAYERS OF THE HUGUENOTS OF FLORIDA

THE FAITH AND THE PRAYERS OF THE HUGUENOTS OF FLORIDA

FIRST LANDING IN FLORIDA BY JEAN RIBAULT: MAY 1, 1562




The first expedition by the French Huguenots to America was exploratory in nature, and was led by two men: Captain Jean Ribault and Rene de Laudonniere. Here is the story of that landing, taken from the book, Our Country, Volume I, available online - Click here .

Jean Ribault was an experienced mariner of Dieppe and an earnest Protestant. Ribault sailed from Havre de Grace on the 18th of February, 1562, with sailors and soldiers, and a few gentlemen of fortune who were prompted by curiosity, the love of adventure, or the prospect of gain, to accompany him. They arrived off the coast of Anastacia Island (it is supposed) below the site of St. Augustine, at the close of April. Sailing along the "sweet-smelling coast" northward, the two vessels entered the broad mouth of the River St. John, where the company landed and were most kindly received by the natives. The Frenchmen were delighted with everything -- the soft climate; the sweetest blossoms; the magnificent trees festooned from root to top with grape-vines; birds of gay plumage and sweetest notes; and mulberry trees, on "the boughs of which were silkworms in marvelous numbers," and with people of finest forms and kindliest natures. They seemed to have entered a paradise. "It is a thing unspeakable," wrote Captain Ribault, "to consider the things that be seen there, and shall be found more and more in this incomparable land, which, never yet broken with plough irons, bringeth forth all things according to its first nature, wherewith the eternal God endowed it."

Under the shadow of a wide-spreading magnolia tree laden with blossoms at the edge of a green savannah, with half-naked men, women and children, painted and decorated with gold and pearls -- wondering sun-worshippers -- standing a little way off, the Christians knelt upon the soft sward and poured forth thanksgiving to God for his mercy in giving them a safe voyage to such a delightful land. It was a bright May-day. At twilight they returned to their ships, and early the next morning the whole company went ashore again, in small boats, carrying a column of hard stone upon which was carved the arms of the French king. They set it up on a broad grassy knoll surrounded by tall cypress and spreading palmetto trees and sweet flowering shrubs; and with the usual ceremonies, they took possession of the country in the name of Charles the Ninth.

PRAYERS UPON LANDING TO ESTABLISH THE FRENCH COLONY IN FLORIDA

Upon landing on June 30, 1564, Rene de Laudonniere led his group in expressing the following prayer of thanksgiving to God for their safe passage:

"On the morrow about the break of day, I commanded a trumpet to be sounded, that being assembled we might give God thankes for our favourable and happie arrival. Then wee sang a Psalme of thanksgiving unto God, beseeching him that it would please him of his grace to continue his accustomed goodnesse toward his poore servaunts, and ayde us in all our enterprises, that all might turne to his glory and the advancement of our King." The prayer ended, and every man began to take courage.

(Source: "http://www.plimoth.org/library/Thanksgiving/al ternat.htm" Plimouth-on-the-Web, Claimants for the First Thanksgiving, pp. 1-2)

THE FINAL PRAYER OF JEAN RIBAULT:
ESTABLISHING A COVENANT WITH ZION

When Jean Ribault uttered his last words on the land, as he was being speared through, his words were a prayer from Psalm 132: (Personalized) "Lord, remember Jean Ribault, and all his afflictions: How he swear unto the LORD, and vowed unto the mighty God of Jacob; Surely I will not come into the tabernacle of my house, nor go up into my bed; I will not give sleep to mine eyes, or slumber to mine eyelids, Until I find out a place for the LORD, an habitation for the mighty God of Jacob." (Psalm 132:1-5)

Clearly, the heartcry of this Huguenot leader was to devote his life to establishing "an habitation for the mighty God of Jacob." As Jean Ribault lay dying in the sands of Matanzas inlet that day, 442 years ago, his sacrifice established our land as a permanent "place for the Lord." May we never forget this legacy, as we remain in covenant relationship today with Zion - the land of the mighty God of Jacob.

.. This beautiful silver coffee pot is a fine example of the silverware created by the Huguenot refugees in Jersey This beautiful silver coffee pot is a fine example of the silverware created by the Huguenot refugees in Jersey

Jamestown: The Assembly 2007

JAMESTOWN: THE ASSEMBLY 2007

On April 29, 1607, the Christian colonists, who formed Jamestown, landed in Virginia Beach and planted a cross to dedicate the new world to God-creating a covenant that has blessed all Americans. As a part of The Assembly 2007 Executive Committee and as Executive Director for the International Center for Spiritual Renewal, I will be joining event coordinators John and Robin Blanchard along with host Bishop John and Pastor Anne Gimenez in a unique opportunity to rededicate America to God at The Assembly 2007 on April 29. This national call to prayer is centered on the 400-year anniversary of the planting of the cross and prayer of dedication by Robert Hunt, the chaplain of Jamestown. A special Consecration Conference, to be held April 26-28, will be included in this unique time for restoring favor and victory to the nation.

The Dedication Sunday, April 29, at 20th Street on the Oceanfront is free and open to the public. We invite you to be a part of history by standing in prayer with thousands of Christians and renewing our covenant by rededicating America to God.

For more information, log onto our website at: http://www.theassembly2007.org/

Join CBN in Reclaiming The Covenant

JOIN CBN IN RECLAIMING THE COVENANT


"From these very shores the Gospel shall go forth to not only this New World, but the entire world."

Reverend Robert Hunt and America's first permanent English colonists dedicated this future nation to our Lord Jesus Christ on April 29, 1607 with these words.

Now, 400 years later, we invite you to join us in reclaiming our nation for Jesus Christ and reaffirming the solemn covenant made by our forefathers.

Visit CBN.com Reclaiming the Covenant to learn more about this historic event -- and the providential prayer that would impact the destiny of America and the nations of the world.

Sign Up Today to Reclaim the Covenant

PRAYING FOR THE ASSEMBLY 2007

PRAYING FOR THE ASSEMBLY 2007


Saints of God have been praying for The Assembly 2007 for several years; and have most recently begun praying targeted prayers for this convocation.

We apologize that we were not advised when this intercession was initiated, on Tuesday, April 10th, but we list here the key points that have been covered and then the prayers that will remain through April 29. (All of these prayer points were sent in by Martha Lucia in Florida.)

Assembly 2007 Gathering Prayer Points

"RESTORING A PRODIGAL NATION" - (LUKE 15)


REVELATION - Pray for a conviction of sin, the spirit of wisdom and revelation.

". . . HE CAME TO HIMSELF. . ." (Luke 15:17)
(April 10th - 15th)

REPENTANCE

". . . AND HE AROSE AND CAME TO HIS FATHER . . ." (Luke 15:20)
April 16th - April 20th

RECONCILIATION:

". . . HIS FATHER SAW HIM. . . FELL ON HIS NECK, AND KISSED HIM." (Lk.15:20)
April 21st - April 23rd

RESTORATION:

"BRING OUT THE BEST ROBE, A RING, AND SANDALS." (Luke 15:22)

April 24th, Tuesday: Lord, restore and fill our lives with your Spirit of Prayer, your righteousness - that we may be found in Him.

April 25th, Wednesday: Lord, fill us with your compassion for the poor, sick, needy, and those in prison; enable us to meet their needs.

April 26th, Thursday: Empower us and give us a fresh anointing in order to be a witness locally, nationally, and in the mission field. RESTORE THE TABERNACLE OF DAVID IN FULLNESS - The Lord Jesus, the glory of God, restored in the midst of a praying and worshipping people.

(Revelation 1, 5; Acts 15:15, 16)

April 27th, Friday: Turn the hearts of fathers to children, children to fathers, the hearts of the youth and elderly to yourself, and pour your Spirit upon them.

REVIVAL:

"MY SON IS ALIVE!! AND THEY BEGAN TO BE MERRY . . . MUSIC AND DANCING" (Luke 15:21- 26)

April 28th, Saturday: OPEN THE HEAVENS - LET YOUR CHURCH BE A HOLY, COMPASSIONATE AND EVANGELISTIC CHURCH!

April 29th, Sunday: LORD, POUR HOLY SPIRIT AND "FIRE" OVER THE ASSEMBLY TODAY. YOU ARE WELCOME IN OUR NATION. POUR YOUR GLORY OVER THE EAST GATE, THE MID-ATLANTIC, THE SHORES OF VIRGINIA BEACH, THE STATE OF VIRGINIA - THE WOMB OF OUR NATION - AND LET HOLY FIRE SPREAD THROUGHOUT THE NATION! LET OUR HEARTS CHANGE, AND BE A PLEASING, PERMANENT HABITATION FOR YOUR PRESENCE!

In Closing, Please Pray for . . .

IN CLOSING, PLEASE PRAY FOR . . .

Vision of the Assembly 2007 400th Anniversary Reconciliation and Rededication of our Nation to be understood and received; protection and blessing on Directors, Executive Board, and all coordinating committees: Pastors, Logistics, Promotion, Volunteers, Finances ($500,000.00 budget), Prayer, etc.

(Prayers also offered by Martha Lucia)

The Week of April 23-27, 2007


April 23 - 27, 2007

"Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands." (Deut. 7:9)

On Capitol Hill This Week, Vol. XIV, No. 12b

  1. SAUDIS REGARD CONGRESS AS HOSTILE
  2. QATAR DEFENDS U.S. MILITARY PRESENCE
  3. AHMADINEJAD VOWS IRAN WILL "RESIST TO THE END"
  4. N. KOREA MISSES DEADLINE TO SHUT DOWN NUCLEAR REACTOR
  5. IRAN "IS SEEKING NORTH KOREA'S NUCLEAR EXPERTISE"
  6. SYRIA CONTAINS AT LEAST 3 MAJOR MISSILE SITES
  7. AL QAIDA REACHES TOP LEVEL OF ALGERIAN REGIME
  8. GATES: DIPLOMACY WILL THWART IRAN'S NUCLEAR EFFORTS
  9. OLMERT BACKS ARMS FOR P.A.; U.S. INVOLVED
  10. NETANYAHU GOING INTO ACTION TO TOPPLE OLMERT

1. SAUDIS REGARD CONGRESS AS HOSTILE

Saudi Arabia regards Congress as a leading enemy of the Arab kingdom. Leading Saudi officials have asserted that the Democratic-controlled Congress was preventing U.S. weapons sales and military assistance to the Gulf Arab state. They said Congress has been mulling plans to impose sanctions amid allegations of Saudi violations of human and religious freedom. "The reasons for that are many, the first of which is the Zionist lobby in the United States," Prince Turki Al Faisal, a former Saudi ambassador to the United States, said.

In an address on April 10 to the Saudi Association for Media and Communications, Turki said Congress has become "the center of hostility" toward Saudi Arabia. A former longtime intelligence chief, Turki blamed the influence of pro-Israeli supporters, whom he termed a powerful lobby. (Middle East Newsline; MENL)

· Father, we thank you and offer up our praises for this news. At a time when we tend to think nothing makes sense - we see that Your Hand is still righteous, and Your arm is still long enough to watch over Israel. . . · "According to Your name, O God, So is Your praise to the ends of the earth; Your right hand is full of righteousness." (Psalm 48:10 )

2. QATAR DEFENDS U.S. MILITARY PRESENCE

Qatar has defended the presence of the U.S. military, but said the emirate would not participate in any American-led attack on Iran. A senior Qatari official addressed the presence of U.S. Central Command in the Gulf Cooperation Council state. Qatari Prime Minister Hamad Bin Jassem Bin Jabr Al Thani defended the presence of an estimated 5,000 U.S. personnel, and did not suggest that they would leave soon.

In a television program on April 14, Hamad, who is also Qatar's foreign minister, said the U.S. military presence does not threaten the emirate. He said Qatar has full control over facilities used by Central Command, which established a presence around Doha in the 1990s. "We should remember how the American base came to Qatar," Hamad said. "It was the result of the Kuwaiti invasion [by Iraq in 1990]. Earlier, there was no base in Qatar, but rather in neighboring countries." (MENL)

· Heavenly Father, Holy God - sometimes we forget the magnitude of Your presence, and Your ability to work out Your plans and Your purposes. Qatar has been our ally because You determined they would be. Your mission WILL be accomplished in this world; not ours, and not that of the world leaders with evil intent. Qatar will remain our ally for as long as You determine, and through the missions that You decide; and THE NAME OF THE LORD WILL SUCCEED. · "Come together, all of you, and listen: Which of the idols has foretold these things? The LORD's chosen ally will carry out his purpose against Babylon; his arm will be against the Babylonians. I, even I, have spoken; yes, I have called him. I will bring him, and he will succeed in his mission." (Isaiah 48:14-15)

3. AHMADINEJAD VOWS IRAN WILL "RESIST TO THE END"

President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad on Monday vowed in a public speech that Iran would 'resist to the end' in defending its rights over the country's controversial nuclear drive. "The Iranian people are standing firm until the end on acquiring their right and will not shift an inch," Ahmadinejad said in a speech in the southern city of Shiraz broadcast live on state television. "The Iranian nation will not be dissuaded in its drive, and the Iranian nation stands united on this," he said. "On the nuclear issue, the Iranian people will stand firm to acquire all their rights, will continue solidly to reach the summits of perfection and will raise their fists to insist on their rights." (SpaceWar.com)

· Lord God, the leader of Iran may "resist to the end", but it will do him no good. You, oh God, will watch over Israel and the friends of Israel. We stand firmly in our belief and trust in Your Word - knowing that the "record" was written so that we would never forget. Ahmadinejad is just another pharaoh, and YOU ARE GOD! · "But do not be afraid of them; remember well what the LORD your God did to Pharaoh and to all Egypt." (Deuteronomy 7:18 )

4. NORTH KOREA MISSES DEADLINE TO SHUT DOWN NUCLEAR REACTOR

"The four-year-old process to get North Korea to begin dismantling its nuclear programs remained stalled Saturday. North Korea failed to shut down its main reactor at Yongbyon, because it has yet to receive any of the $25 million that was unfrozen at a bank in Macau. The transfer of the funds, which were in North Korean accounts, has been delayed by what officials describe as banking technicalities.

Christopher Hill, the United States envoy to the six- nation nuclear negotiations, met with Chinese officials Saturday to discuss the next step. Hill said the momentum of the disarmament process has slipped, and he planned to return to Washington on Sunday. However, Hill did not suggest the process has been derailed. He said all participants in the negotiations, - the two Koreas, Japan, and Russia - will remain in close contact. Hill said officials of China, the host of the negotiations, urged patience. "The Chinese were not discouraged by this process, and do believe there's some progress being achieved," he said. (Voice of America News)

· It is encouraging that the Chinese are encouraged by these talks! This demonstrates the unusual patience offen demonstrated by the Asian people. Ask our Lord to grant us similar patience and fortitude as these negotiations continue to develop. Ask, too, for divine intervention in this process so that North Korea's leaders are more inclined to work with the West in ceasing nuclear development. · "Be still and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen; I will be exalted in the earth." (Psalm 46:10)

5. IRAN "IS SEEKING NORTH KOREA'S NUCLEAR EXPERTISE"

Iran and North Korea have appointed high-level delegations to deepen co-operation between the two countries on nuclear weapons technology, according to diplomatic sources in Beijing. The two countries are keen to seal a deal before North Korea starts to closes its controversial Yongbyon reactor under the terms of an agreement with the United States and regional powers in February. The Feb 13 accord was negotiated after North Korea conducted a successful test of a nuclear warhead at the end of last year. Following the international outcry that greeted the test, Pyongyang agreed to close the reactor in return for aid.

But the North Koreans missed the weekend's deadline to start shutting down the reactor, claiming that the United States was refusing to release £15 million of North Korean funds frozen in bank accounts in Macau.The US State Department has demanded that North Korea should 'immediately' invite the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to begin sealing the facility. South Korea said yesterday that it was considering delaying rice aid to North Korea because of Pyongyang's failure to comply with the agreement.

Iran has taken advantage of the delay to intensify attempts to negotiate a deal that would give Teheran access to the nuclear expertise North Korea acquired during last year's atom bomb test. Iranian scientists have already been invited to Pyongyang to study data collected from the test. Under the terms of the February agreement, North Korea has agreed to shut the Yongbyon reactor - which provided the fissile material for the nuclear test - the agreement puts no limits on North Korea to export the expertise it acquired from the test. (The London Daily Telegraph)

· How shrewd are the Iranians - to take advantage of the negotiated agreement to gain more nuclear power technology for themselves. No wonder North Korea jumped on the banking delay to work a deal with Iran. No doubt money is involved. Ask the Lord again to intervene in this cooperation between the two bullying countries so that their plans and schemes fail and disintegrate. · "When the wicked are multiplied, transgression increaseth: but the righteous shall see their fall." (Proverbs 29:16)

6. SYRIA CONTAINS AT LEAST 3 MAJOR MISSILE SITES

Syria contains at least three major ballistic missile sites. Satellite images released in the United States disclosed three major missile sites in Syria. The sites, photographed in 2004, were located in Hama, Homs, and the Golan Heights. Hama was said to be the center of Syria's missile program. The center was described by missile experts as the 'Cape Canaveral' of Syria and contained testing facilities.

Analysts said the images, broadcast by the U.S.- based Christian Broadcasting Network, showed that Hama also contained a missile operations center. The center, established with help from Iran, was said to direct Syria's arsenal of Scud C and Scud D missiles. (Middle East Newsline)

· The work of the wicked is never done. How busy the Iranians have been to establish nuclear and missile sites wherever possible in the world. Also, how interesting that CBN, not a commercial TV network, published the news of these missile sites established by Syria. Praise the Lord for ever-watchful eyes over the work of the enemy. Pray for the protection of the citizens of Syria, who have little knowledge of the work of their leaders. Continue in prayer for the protection of Israel from these Syrian missile sites. · "The burden of Damascus. Behold, Damascus is taken away from being a city, and it shall be a ruinous heap." (Isaiah 17:1)

7. AL QAIDA REACHES TOP LEVEL OF ALGERIAN REGIME

Al Qaida has succeeded in targeting the top level of the Algerian regime.Al Qaida claimed responsibility for bombing the Algerian prime minister's office as well as the barracks of an elite security unit. The car bombings on Wednesday killed at least 30 people and injured about 220 in the bloodiest attacks in the North African country in at least a decade.

Hours later, the Al Qaida Organization in the Islamic Maghreb claimed responsibility for the attacks, the latest in a series of bombings around the capital in 2007. An Al Qaida-aligned website displayed the photographs of three suicide car bombers, identifying them as Muadh Bin Jabal, Al Zubair Abu Sajda and Abu Dajana. (Middle East Newsline)

· Our minds cannot fathom the desire to create terror and to kill, as seems to control the thinking of Al Qaida members. Pray for the families of these three suicide bombers, so that the families can come to know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Pray for peace in Algeria and for a falling away from the religion of Islam throughout the country. Algeria is ready for the Gospel. · "For God hath not give us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." (2 Timothy 1:7)

8. GATES: DIPLOMACY WILL THWART IRAN'S NUCLEAR EFFORTS

Diplomatic efforts to resolve a standoff with Iran are working, US Secretary of Defense Robert Gates said at a press conference with Defense Minister Amir Peretz in Tel Aviv on Wednesday [April 18]. The United States has been one of the leading powers demanding that sanctions be imposed on Iran. Gates said he believes that the issue can be resolved through diplomacy.

"The international community is united in telling Iran what it needs to do with respect to its nuclear program," Gates said. He said he believes that the preferable course is diplomacy. Peretz said he believes 2007 will be a critical year for thwarting the Iranian nuclear plan. Peretz said that while he welcomes the diplomatic efforts being made, other options cannot be ruled out.

"Iran presents a threat not only to Israel, but to the entire free world," he said. "This problem is of concern to all of us, and we are certain that the world will not stand aside." Peretz says that Israel expects the US and the entire world to support Israel's position and "stand by us." It is the first time in eight years that the US Secretary of Defense has visited Israel.

(By Margot Dudkevitch, Infolive.tv. April 18, 2007)
[Reported by: Bridges for Peace]

· Pray that the decision to trust diplomatic processes will be blessed. Pray that the Lord will bring Iran to account for its repeated declarations of hate and incitement against Israel. · "My soul is among lions; I lie among the sons of men who are set on fire, whose teeth are spears and arrows, and their tongue a sharp sword. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let Your glory be above all the earth." (Psalm 57:4- 5)

9. OLMERT BACKS ARMS FOR PA HAMAS-FATAH MILITIA MERGER

Prime Minister Ehud Olmert's agreement on Sunday [April 15] to the US plan to provide weapons and training to expanded numbers of Fatah militia members in the Palestinian Authority [PA] comes at the same time the PA is uniting Hamas and Fatah militia forces. The United States will transfer weapons and funds for Fatah forces, which will be trained by foreign Arabs and possibly Americans at US-built facilities.

PA President Mahmoud Abbas [Abu Mazen] offered in return a new scheme to put a halt to weapons smuggling and terror attacks that have plagued Israel despite the Gaza cease-fire that he and Olmert announced in late November. However, this time the two leaders agreed to allow the newly armed Fatah gangs to patrol the smuggling route along the Egyptian border. Along this route, a huge arsenal of advanced weapons has been smuggled from Egypt to the same Fatah and Hamas terrorist groups under the noses of Egyptian soldiers.

The US plan to arm the PA's Fatah gangs is nicknamed the "Dayton Plan" after Washington's security coordinator to the PA, Lt.-Gen. Keith Dayton, who helped devise it. It includes further Israeli concessions such as increased Arab traffic through the Karni checkpoint, a central Gaza crossing into pre- 1967 Israel. A new, modern facility will be built there at a cost of over US $25 million. The Dayton Plan, if implemented in full, is expected to cost US taxpayers a total of about US $59 million.

Frequent intelligence reports, including those heard at US congressional hearings earlier this year, have revealed that a large number of Fatah militia men are also members of Hamas and Islamic Jihad. US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice told the hearings, which resulted in a scale down of the amount of aid to Fatah, that she could not guarantee the money would not reach "the wrong hands."

(Excerpts from an article by Tzvi Ben Gedalyahu and Nissan Ratzlav-Katz, Arutz Sheva, April 16, 2007)
[Reported by: Bridges for Peace]

· Pray that the Lord will guide the decision-making in Israel, which seeks to supply arms and ammunition to PA militia. Pray that His promise to protect Israel and the Jewish people will supercede decisions made for political purposes. · "I will cry out to God Most High, to God who performs all things for me. He shall send from heaven and save me; He reproaches the one who would swallow me up. God shall send forth His mercy and His truth." (Psalm 57:2-3)

10. NETANYAHU GOING INTO ACTION TO TOPPLE OLMERT

Likud Chairman and head of the opposition Benjamin Netanyahu has decided to abandon his wait-and-see strategy and to launch a public campaign for toppling Prime Minister Ehud Olmert's government. In a rally Tuesday [April 17] at Likud headquarters building "Metzudat Ze'ev" in Tel Aviv, he reportedly told his supporters, "This government has to go home, and we need to start acting to make this happen." Netanyahu told them to begin holding weekly protest vigils every Friday in busy intersections throughout Israel as well as street demonstrations. "The slogan is simple," he said: "You've Failed-Go Home." According to NRG [online edition of Hebrew daily Maariv], the meeting was attended by dozens of Likud branch chairmen and other central activists from all parts of Israel. Netanyahu informed them of a working plan for countrywide protest vigils with the intention of creating an atmosphere conducive to bringing down the government. He assured the activists that he would be joining the protests on a regular basis.

Netanyahu's move appears to be timed with precision, as the date of release of the interim report by the Winograd Commission approaches. The commission was appointed to investigate failures in the conduct of the Second Lebanon War last summer and is expected to have harsh criticism for the government and its heads. Olmert has received record-setting low marks of support in the polls, one of which recently gave him an amazingly low 3% support level-less than the margin of error. The polls also predict the Likud will receive 30 to 35 Knesset [Parliament] seats compared to its present representation of 12 MKs [members of Knesset].

(By Gil Ronan, Arutz Sheva, April 19, 2007)
[Reported by: Bridges for Peace]

· Let us pray that any shifts in Israel's government are God-ordained. · "Daniel answered and said: 'Blessed be the name of God forever and ever, for wisdom and might are His. And He changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings; He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding.'" (Daniel 2:20-21)