On Capitol Hill This Week Volume XVI, Numbers 4a - 4b January 26 - 30, 2009

In This Issue
· On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVI, No. 4a
· This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .

Greetings!
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net

On Capitol Hill This Week Volume XVI,

Number 4a January 26 - 30, 2009

"The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases." (Proverbs 21:1)


On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVI, No. 4a

BARACK HUSSEIN OBAMA SWORN IN AS 44TH PRESIDENT
OBAMA SWORN IN AGAIN, BUT NO BIBLE
INAUGURAL MISSTEPS AND MISCALCULATIONS
OBAMA'S ABORTION AGENDA
OBAMA'S HOMOSEXUAL AGENDA
HOLDER NOMINATION FOR ATTORNEY GENERAL ON HOLD
OBAMA OVERTURNS "MEXICO CITY POLICY"
36 YEARS AFTER ROE V. WADE: 200,000 MARCH FOR LIFE IN WASHINGTON
CONGRESSMEN HOLD PRO-LIFE VIGIL ON THE HOUSE FLOOR
"HUDSON MIRACLE" PILOT IS WELCOMED HOME

1. BARACK HUSSEIN OBAMA SWORN IN AS 44TH PRESIDENT

Barack Hussein Obama became the country's first ever African-American President Tuesday, January 20 at an inauguration in the nation's capitol, attended by as many as two million people. Soon after, Obama, 47 . . . stressed the need for a "new era of responsibility" in his eighteen minute inauguration address, saying the country was in crisis and that action was urgently needed. (Worthy News)

· Father God, we bring our new president before Your Throne of Grace, asking that You would impart unto him every equipping needful to fulfill his responsibilities as the president of all the citizens of our nation. We thank You, Lord, that You promise to turn his heart in directions that are pleasing to You, and we stand in agreement that this shall be done, by Your mighty hand, every day that Barack Hussein Obama occupies the Office of the President of the United States of America. In Your Name we offer this prayer, amen.

· "The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases." (Prov. 21:1)

2. OBAMA SWORN IN AGAIN, BUT NO BIBLE

Out of "an abundance of caution", Barack Obama has taken the oath of office a second time because a word was out of sequence when he was sworn in on Tuesday. The surprise move came after Tuesday's much-noticed stumble, when the US supreme court Chief Justice, John Roberts, jumbled the words, prompting Obama to follow suit. Unlike the bungled oath - which was delivered on the Capitol Hill platform before the watching world - yesterday's repeat performance took place in the White House map room in front of a small group of reporters. On Tuesday, Obama was sworn in with his palm on the same velvet-covered Bible used by Lincoln in 1861, but he had no Bible with him at the re-run. (Covenant News.com)

· In the midst of this convoluted beginning to the Obama administration, ask that the Lord's peace would surround the new president, as a mantle of grace. It is perhaps regrettable that the oath, sworn in the second time, was taken without the Bible present. May our Lord nevertheless honor those words, and may the oath of office, taken by Barack Hussein Obama, stand in truth every day that he is in office.

· "If a man makes a vow to the LORD, or takes an oath to bind himself with a binding obligation, he shall not violate his word; he shall do according to all that proceeds out of his mouth." (Numbers 30:2)

3. INAUGURAL MISSTEPS AND MISCALCULATIONS

Authorities Rejected Offers of Aid, Allegedly, and Underestimated Ticket Holder Turnout

A combination of official miscalculations and inadequate response contributed to a breakdown in order at Half a dozen ticket entrances and intersections around the Capitol before the swearing- in of President Obama. In meetings that carried into the weekend, congressional and security officials were grappling with Public outrage and trying to figure out what went wrong.This much is clear: The Capitol Police and other officials underestimated the turnout among ticket holders. They turned down advance offers of help from volunteers and the National Guard . . . And police failed to respond adequately when trouble arose. . . Satellite photos show more than 10,000 people swarming outside each of three security gates shortly before the inaugural ceremony began . . . Congress members and attendees are livid about the breakdown in crowd management. Senate Sergeant at Arms Terrance W. Gainer said he realized that the situation was more dangerous than it first appeared. "We were fortunate that Something worse didn't happen, that there weren't injuries," he said. (Washington Post)

· Offer praise for the magnificent job accomplished by all the law enforcement officers present at the Inauguration, who accommodated the two million citizens present to witness this historic event. The peace, calm and order that descended upon our city that day was clearly an answer to prayer. Lift up those who were mistakenly shut out -- even as ticket holders - - and ask our Lord to comfort their hearts in the aftermath. Finally, lift up all security officials as they review this episode, so that it never occurs again.

· "The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availed much." (James 5:16)

4. OBAMA'S ABORTION AGENDA

During his election campaign, President Obama told general audiences he wanted to reduce abortions, but promised abortion advocacy groups that he would deliver policies that would radically increase abortions, including federal taxpayer funding for abortion. According to administration officials, he will begin by overturning the "Mexico City Policy" established by President Ronald Reagan, continued by George H.W. Bush, overturned by Bill Clinton, and then reinstituted by George W. Bush. The policy prohibits federal funds from going to groups that perform abortions overseas or lobby pro-life governments to change their abortion laws. Some 77 members of Congress have signed a letter asking Obama to reconsider his plan to overturn this policy. Sources say Obama will not issue the order today (day of the March for Life), as President Clinton did, to signal Obama's desire to set a different tone in Washington.In December, the official Obama transition website posted a 55-page memorandum produced by a coalition of pro-abortion groups laying out an agenda for "change" in the sphere of reproductive rights (i.e., abortion rights). The document gives a glimpse of what lies ahead, including the Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA), taxpayer funding of abortion, more funding for Planned Parenthood and other pro-abortion groups, a national health care plan that includes abortion for all women, appointment of pro-abortion judges to the Supreme Court and other federal courts, etc. The memo includes text for Executive Orders and Presidential Memorandums, legislative language, and regulatory initiatives. Obama's key personnel appointments, thus far, guarantee a rigidly pro- abortion edge in every sphere where abortion can somehow be advanced. (FRC Prayer Targets)

· May the pro-life majority actively oppose Obama's pro-abortion policies! May God use the radical plans of this administration to revive the pro-life movement to such a level of strength and vitality that these plans will be defeated! May God miraculously change our new President's heart to abandon his abortion plans! May He give pro-life Congressmen supernatural will and effective political strategies to withstand and defeat these death-dealing plans.

· "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly." (John 10:10)

5. OBAMA'S HOMOSEXUAL AGENDA

Our President's homosexual agenda, as enshrined on the White House website, is surreal. It will be our task to pray for him, while praying forcefully against enactment and implementation of his pro- homosexual policies:

-- Expand Federal Hate Crimes Laws: Pass the Matthew Shepard Act, and reinvigorate enforcement at the Department of Justice's Criminal Section.

-- Pass the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) - Expand anti-discrimination laws to include sexual orientation and gender identity. Enact remedies against employers who will not extend benefits to employees' same-sex partners.

-- Repeal the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) - Support full civil unions and federal rights for LGBT couples (i.e., enact legislation that would ensure that the 1,100+ federal legal rights and benefits provided on the basis of marital status are extended to same-sex couples).

-- Oppose any Federal Marriage Protection Amendment that Bans Same-Sex Marriage

-- Repeal Don't Ask-Don't Tell - Allow open homosexuals to serve in the military.

-- Expand Adoption Rights - Ensure adoption rights for all couples and individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation.

-- Promote AIDS Prevention: Implement a national HIV/AIDS strategy that includes all federal agencies. Implement sex education that includes contraception, combating infection within the prison population through education and contraception, and distributing contraceptives through the public health system. Lift the federal ban on needle exchange. (The above is a digest of the special LGBT section on the White House Website.)[Source: FRC Prayer Targets]

· May God stir champions in Congress who will aggressively and effectively oppose these initiatives! May the American people arise to say "NO!" to these revolutionary and immoral ideas. May those who worked to elect Obama realize what he stands for, and may they labor to resist his will on these issues. With God, all things are possible!

· WE APPLY THE FULL FORCE OF REVELATION 12:11 AGAINST THESE AGENDAS: "They overcame him through the Blood of the Lamb, the Word of their testimony, and THEY LOVED NOT THEIR LIVES UNTO DEATH." We cry out for the souls of all who are lost in the web of deception of the "gay" lifestyle, and we ask our Lord to set them free to worship HIM in Spirit and in Truth. Amen.
6. HOLDER NOMINATION FOR ATTORNEY GENERAL ON HOLD

A "hold" has been placed on the nomination of Eric Holder for the position of Attorney General. A "hold" is a procedural motion whereby a Senator may anonymously stop a piece of legislation or, in this case, slow the nominating process for an individual. Bob Powers, NRB's Vice President of Government Relations, has been told that this hold will slow down Holder's nomination for at least seven days. Look for the Judiciary Committee to go back to the Holder nomination by the end of next week.Also related to Holder's nomination, NRB President & CEO Frank Wright, Ph.D., sent a letter yesterday to Sen. Arlen Specter (R-PA), thanking him for his defense of broadcasters during the Holder nomination hearings, and for the salient questions that he put to Holder, regarding his position on the so- called "Fairness Doctrine.""As always," concluded Dr. Wright, "we commend you for your valiant defense of our most important freedoms. We take great comfort that, in your long career in law enforcement and as a legislator, your defense of our "first" freedoms has been unwavering.

Thanks again for lending your strong arm to a noble cause." (National Religious Broadcasters, Friday, January 23, 2009)· Pray that the Senate use great wisdom in considering the nomination of Eric Holder to serve as the Attorney General for the Obama Administration. In addition to the issue cited above, there are other matters in his background that deserve close scrutiny.

Pray, too, that the Fairness Doctrine never sees the light of day, for it is anything but fair to those who wish to enjoy our freedom of speech on the airwaves. Pray!

· "This far and no further, and here shall your proud waves by stopped." (Job 38:10)

7. 36 YEARS AFTER ROE V. WADE: 200,000 MARCH FOR LIFE IN WASHINGTON

Two days after Washington hosted the largest inauguration ceremony in history, 200,000+ pro-life Americans from every Christian denomination of all ages, faiths and creeds are marching together in Washington, partly in protest of the infamous 1973 Roe v. Wade decision, which usurped and nullified state laws restricting the practice of abortion, and partly in joyous celebration of the sanctity of human life and the principle of the Right to Life. Our founders wrote, "We hold these truths to be self- evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life. . ." It is sadly ironic that the President who took America across a new historic threshold demonstrating our commitment to the Declaration principle of God-given equality also unquestionably is the most pro-abortion President in the history of America, whose abortion agenda denies that same Declaration, shocking the sensibilities of pro-life Americans. (FRC Prayer Targets)

· Heavenly Father, may the Marches for Life in Washington , D.C. and across America continue to grow and not diminish. May pro-life activities, organizations and efforts prosper and achieve their goals! May pro-life people be encouraged in spirit and redouble their efforts to defend life and the unborn. May the sanctity of human life be celebrated and may Americans stand up for life in increasing numbers until American government resumes its responsibility to protect the unborn, and not support their abuse and murder.

We pray that God would intervene against all governmental actions which support abortions, euthanasia, and embryonic stem cell research

· "Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord; the fruit of the womb is His reward." (Psalm 127:3)

8. CONGRESSMEN HOLD PRO-LIFE VIGIL ON THE HOUSE FLOOR

The night before the March for Life, conservative congressmen led by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) using a Special Order in the House, held a vigil for those lost to abortion. This floor time, made available by Republican Conference Chair Mike Pence, was used by pro-life Members of Congress to remember the tragedy of Roe v. Wade and discuss the right to life. You can watch the various speakers including Virginia Foxx (R-NC) Bob Latta (R-OH) and Paul Broun (R-GA) at this link. (Religious Freedom Coalition)

· Offer praise that there are still some in Congress who will uphold LIFE and Biblical values on the part of us all. Pray that each one be emboldened, strenghthened and encouraged as they call forth acts of righteousness in Congress; and pray, too, that both they and their families be protected in the days to come.

· "Do not fear for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God." (Isaiah 41:10)

9. OBAMA OVERTURNS "MEXICO CITY POLICY

"President Barack Obama has signed an executive order ending the ban on federal funds for international groups that perform abortions or provide information on the option. Liberal groups welcomed the decision while abortion rights foes criticized the president. Known as the "Mexico City policy," the ban has been reinstated and then reversed by Republican and Democratic presidents since GOP President Ronald Reagan established it in 1984. Democrat Bill Clinton ended the ban in 1993, but Republican George W. Bush re- instituted it in 2001 as one of his first acts in office. Obama signed it quietly, without coverage by the media, late on Friday afternoon, a contrast to the midday signings with fanfare of executive orders on other subjects earlier in the week. (AP)

[The following report is from Tony Perkins, President, Family Research Council]While we memorialized the 50 million unborn Americans whose lives have been sacrificed on the altar of "choice," the White House had considered using this solemn anniversary to invite the culture of death back into U.S. foreign policy. According to his aides, President Obama had planned to commemorate the Roe v. Wade ruling by issuing an executive order forcing taxpayers to promote overseas abortions. The Mexico City policy, which has long protected citizens from subsidizing international "family planning" groups that promote abortion, was predicted to be a thing of the past as early as this afternoon. To many of us, that seemed like a cruel irony, considering that Obama had also planned to sign a series of anti-interrogation orders. How could he eliminate torture for terrorists while in the same breath demanding that we export the torture of the unborn? (FRC)

· Intercede on behalf of our nation and Americans living abroad that the sanctity of life be upheld. God is the giver of life, and any man's actions that violate this gift from God brings judgment on the land. This order is not the will of the people but the will of a very vocal minority. Please pray that the Lord will change the hearts of our leaders on this matter.

· "Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you; before you were born, I sanctified you." (Jeremiah 1: 5a)

10. "HUDSON MIRACLE" PILOT IS WELCOMED HOME

Pilot 'Sully' Sullenberger gets hero's welcome Chanting "Sully! Sully!" a crowd of several thousand gathered at a hometown hero celebration in downtown Danville on Saturday to salute US Airways Pilot Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger. The hero himself said only a few words when he was finally handed the microphone - after a long line of speeches by Danville Mayor Newell Arnerich, Rep. Jerry McNerney, D-Pleasanton, and others. "It was circumstances that put this experienced crew (in charge) of that plane on that particular day," Sullenberger, 58, said from a staging area set up on the Town Green. "We were simply doing the jobs we were trained to do." But despite his reticence, or perhaps because of it, the man dubbed "The Hero of the Hudson" cemented his image Saturday as a humble guy with extraordinary skills who believes he was just doing his job. "A hero is someone who didn't necessarily plan on being a hero but who came through when it counted," Arnerich said. The mayor presented Sullenberger with a symbolic Key to the Town, something that has been done only twice in the town's 150-year history, Arnerich said. (San Jose Mercury News)

· We continue to offer praise for the courageous example set by Captain Sullenberger and his crew, two weeks ago, in the face of danger. His humility, in turning down an offer of a ticker tape parade in New York City, and in letting his words be few, even amplifies our respect for this wonderful man. May we all follow his example: those who are "just doing our jobs" and not attempting to gain any glory for ourselves.

· "Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men." (Col. 3:23)

This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .

COUNSELOR (Yo-ayts) "For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called . . . Counselor . . ." (Isaiah 9:6 NIV)

Dear Father,

Your counsel rules over all earthly machinations. You are Sovereign, and I am so thankful that I can come to You for the best counsel. Thank You for this wisdom from above -- from You. Help me to have ears to hear, and a heart ready to accept. I thank You for being the Best Counselor. Amen.
(Taken from: Intimate Moments with the Hebrew Names of God, by Barri Cae Malin and Shmuel Wolkenfeld; Bridge-Logos Publishers; Gainesville, FL, 32614. ISBN: 0-88270-801-5)

On Capitol Hill This WeekVolume XVI,

Number 4b January 26 - 30, 2009

In This Issue
· On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVI, No. 4b
· This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .

"The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases." (Proverbs 21:1)


On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVI, No. 4b

OBAMA REVERSES BUSH POLICIES ON DETENTION AND INTERROGATION
EUROPE HESITANT TO TAKE GITMO INMATES
H.R. 630: ENEMY COMBATANT DETENTION REVIEW ACT
OBAMA'S SPY CHIEF: U.S. SHOULD WORK WITH IRAN
US SENATOR TO VISIT SYRIA NEXT MONTH
OBAMA ENVOY TO MAKE FIRST DIRECT MOVE INTO MIDEAST PEACE EFFORTS
HAMAS PROPOSES YEAR-LONG TRUCE WITH ISRAEL
ISRAEL APPROVES ANTI-SMUGGLING AGREEMENT WITH EGYPT
SAUDI PRINCE SAYS U.S. TIES AT RISK OVER GAZA
U.S. CONGRESS, SENATE STAND WITH ISRAEL
ISRAEL RECEIVES AMERICAN FLAG FLOWN DURING INAUGURATION

1. OBAMA REVERSES BUSH POLICIES ON DETENTION AND INTERROGATION

President Obama took dramatic steps yesterday to reverse Bush administration policies on the detention and interrogation of suspected terrorists, ordering the closure of the U.S. detention camp at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and banning the use of controversial CIA interrogation techniques. But he left open the question of how his administration will deal with any detainees it concludes are too dangerous to be released. The orders did not prohibit renditions, in which the CIA has secretly transferred prisoners captured in one country to another without trial. Although they mandated that the CIA adhere to interrogation guidelines used by the military, officials said that a separate "protocol" may still be established to govern intelligence agency interrogation practices. Obama insisted that the overarching message of his first national security orders was unequivocal: "The United States will not torture." (Washington Post)

· How interesting that abortion, which tortures unborn babies, is not on the president's torture list - just those thugs who unashamedly kill innocent people. Pray that the president will begin to understand God's priorities. Pray that the Holy Spirit will draw him to read the Bible and to be convicted by God's words.

· "Your Word have I hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You." (Psalm 119:11)

2. EUROPE HESITANT TO TAKE GITMO INMATES

After years of criticizing the U.S. military prison in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and now hailing President Obama's decision to close it, Europe faces a dilemma. Should it take in some former inmates, a move that may carry security risks as well as legal consequences? Or should Washington be left to clean up its own mess - a move unlikely to score points with the new Democratic administration? "The Europeans have been nagging the United States to close Guantanamo for ages," said London-based security analyst Bob Ayers. "Now the U.S. is actually thinking about doing it, these same Europeans that have been critical of the U.S. are now very reluctant to take those people into their own countries."

The reaction has not been uniformly negative. Switzerland, Ireland, Britain, Portugal and France have signaled various levels of interest in taking in former Guantanamo inmates. But which ones and under what conditions is unclear. Read mo re. (Washington Times)

· Can Europe criticize the USA and then not help us solve the problem? Words are easily spoken; actions may be harder to do. In a post-Christian Europe, fear seems to run rampant, paralyzing the nations for fear of stirring up riots among the Moslem populations. Gitmo seems the perfect solution and has worked well. Pray that the president, now having had his say to placate some of his supporters, just closes his mouth on the topic. There is wisdom in not letting the "fox into the hen house."

· "Now, therefore, be wise, O kings; Be instructed, you judges of the earth. Serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling." (Psalm 2:10,11)

3. H.R. 630: ENEMY COMBATANT DETENTION REVIEW ACT

[This letter was sent to the constituents of Rep. Ted Poe, R-TX, late last week.]Dear Friends, This week, President Barack Obama issued an executive order for the closure of the terrorist detainee facility at Guantanamo Bay. I am adamantly against this decision. I have toured prisons all around the world and I have personally visited the Guantanamo Bay facility. I can assure you this facility is more than acceptable to house terrorist suspects. In my opinion, it is far too nice for the 'worst-of-the-worst'.

The decision to close this facility and transfer its occupants to the United States is a dangerous one. It is in the interest of national security that I urge the President to reconsider this decision. There are numerous legal ramifications concerning this plan - number one being the potential release of terrorists on US soil. It is already proven that we do not adequately deport criminal illegals after they have served their time in US prisons and this will be no different.
In response, I have cosponsored H.R. 630, the Enemy Combatant Detention Review Act.

This bill establishes clear rules regarding the detention of known terrorists, specifically prohibits a federal court from ordering the government to bring enemy combatants into the US. and ensures that an alien captured and detained abroad during wartime cannot be admitted and released in the US.The American people need to have faith that our government is doing everything it can to keep terrorists out of our country, not purposely bringing them here. I have already received calls from concerned citizens wanting to know if they would be transferred to federal penitentiaries in their area. A recent Pentagon report shows, that of those already released, 61 have rejoined terrorist activities. There needs to be serious consideration of the potential risks involved with this plan before any action is taken. Serving God and Texas,Ted Poe (R-TX)

· Pray for passage of this bill.

· "For the eyes of the LORD are toward the righteous, and His ears attend to their prayer." (I Peter 3:12)

4. OBAMA'S SPY CHIEF: U.S. SHOULD WORK WITH IRAN

President Barack Obama's choice for spy chief, Dennis Blair, said Thursday that U.S. intelligence agencies should seek ways of working with Iran on issues of mutual interest, underscoring the new administration's interest in engagement with elements in the Islamic state. "While policymakers need to understand anti-American leaders, policies and actions in Iran, the intelligence community can also help policymakers identify and understand other leaders and political forces, so that it is possible to work toward a future in both our interests," retired Admiral Blair said on Thursday in a prepared statement for a Senate hearing on his nomination as Director of National Intelligence. (Reuters)(Excerpt) Read more here

· Well, Neville Chamberlain thought he could talk to Hitler, too, until England was almost destroyed by this madman. Pray that the eyes of this administration will be opened to understand the true danger

-- the true evil

-- that our nation faces vis-a-vis the current regime in Iran; and that we find ways to keep the peace by protecting ourselves. Pray!

· "A wise man is cautious and turns away from evil, But a fool is arrogant and careless." (Prov. 14:16)

5. US SENATOR TO VISIT SYRIA NEXT MONTH

Chief of Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Senator Howard Berman, is scheduled to visit Syria next month in an effort to bolster relations between the United States of America and Syria after the inauguration of President Barak Obama, a Syrian newspaper said Sunday. The foreign relations committee's delegation is one of three to be dispatched to Syria February 10-20, the Syrian Al- Watan daily said.

The daily pointed out Berman's delegation is considered the most important, for it allowed the passing of the Syria Accountability Act during the tenure of the George Bush administration. Such visit is crucial in shaping relations between the two countries, the daily added. Syrian President Bashar Al- Assad stressed his readiness to engage in a fruitful dialogue that would help in bringing peace to the Middle East with his US counterpart Barak Obama. (KUNA; The Investigative Project)

· Inside information on the part of this writer reveals that the Syrians think that they have hoodwinked America and are playing us for the fool. Please cover Sen. Berman before the visit, during the visit, and after the visit, for the Syrians will pull every trick to convince the USA that they are sincere about wanting peace and cooperation. Meanwhile, Syria houses Hizbollah and allows Russian warships into its ports, all too close to Israel. Integrity and honesty are not attributes respected by Syria's rulers.

· "The wicked is ensnared by the transgression of his lips; but the righteous will come through trouble." (Proverbs 12:13)

6. OBAMA ENVOY TO MAKE FIRST DIRECT MOVE INTO MIDEAST PEACE EFFORTS

Obama's special envoy to the Middle East will come to Israel Wednesday for talks on keeping alive a fragile Gaza cease-fire and reviving Mideast negotiations, an Israeli foreign ministry official said Saturday. George J. Mitchell will meet with Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and senior Israeli officials, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity because Washington has not officially announced the trip.Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton introduced Mitchell in his new role Thursday. His appointment is seen as signaling a renewed push under the Obama administration for a resolution to the Arab-Israeli conflict. Mitchell will also visit Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Prime Minister Salam Fayyad at their headquarters in the West Bank, the official said.

The official said Mitchell will discuss restarting Israeli- Palestinian peace talks after Israel's three-week offensive in the Gaza Strip, and ways to impose an effective arms blockade against the Hamas militants who rule Gaza and have been firing rockets into Israel for years. The arms embargo and the opening of the blockaded territory's borders are key to sustaining separate cease-fires by Israel and Hamas. In Washington, the White House and State Department declined to comment, but diplomats familiar with Mitchell's travel plans said he would visit Israel and the West Bank with possible stops in Egypt and Jordan on a tour that could last eight to 10 days. His exact itinerary is not yet settled, the diplomats said, but he will be working to secure an Israel- Hamas cease-fire, improve the humanitarian situation for Gazans and gauge prospects for continuing the peace process.

Mitchell, a retired Senate majority leader, was a key player in Northern Ireland peace talks in the 1990s and later led an international commission to investigate violence in the Middle East. His report, issued in 2001, called for a freeze on Israeli settlements in the West Bank and a Palestinian crackdown on terrorism. (AP)

· Pray that any American efforts to force Israel to act against her safety will fall into confusion. Only the Lord's strategies can solve this problem. Pray that no agreements are reached behind doors. Send angels to stand at Mitchell's side to guide him.

· "The nations will rush like the rushing of many waters; but God will rebuke them and they will flee far away, and be chased like the chaff of the mountains before the wind." (Psalm 17:13)

7. HAMAS PROPOSES YEAR-LONG TRUCE WITH ISRAEL

Hamas officials in Cairo proposed Sunday a year-long truce with Israel and an opening of the crossings into the Gaza Strip, in the latest round of diplomatic meetings to build on a fragile cease-fire in the Gaza Strip. Hamas official Ayman Taha told reporters in Cairo that his delegation was briefed by the Egyptians on an Israeli proposal for a year-and-a-half long truce with only partial opening of the border, which they rejected.Instead, Taha says the group made a counter offer of a year with open borders, which they now must discuss with their leadership in Damascus. "We will study the matter again and it will be brought back to the Egyptians," he told MENA, the official Egyptian news agency, without elaborating on the other provisions of the possible deal. Hamas has said in the past that it will only maintain a truce if Israel ends its blockade of the Gaza Strip and opens the crossings. (Fox News)

· What arrogance of Hamas to make any kind of demands on Israel after years of violence! However, Hamas figures that nothing is probably lost by being outrageous. Neither the United States nor Israel should be fooled nor filled with fear, nor should the countries of western Europe. Pray that no one listens to Taha and others of his ilk. Pray that minds of these Hamas officials are convicted by the Holy Spirit and that they can escape the lifestyle they are following through salvation in Jesus Christ.

· "Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall." (Proverbs 16:18)

8. ISRAEL APPROVES ANTI-SMUGGLING AGREEMENT WITH EGYPT

Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, Defense Minister Ehud Barak and Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni met overnight Thursday and approved a series of new security agreements with Egypt intended to prevent future weapons smuggling into the Gaza Strip. The arrangement consists of three levels: intelligence cooperation, the deployment of new tunnel-detection technology and obstacles in the Sinai, and enhancing Egyptian control of the border. Cairo has also requested permission to add as many as 1,500 more border police along the perimeter with Gaza, an idea Jerusalem favors.

Residents along the Rafah border have reported that Egyptian authorities have already strengthened their presence by replacing some of its force of border police with troops from the army accompanied by armored personnel carriers. The move may be an effort to prevent a Hamas-led breach in the border fence, similar to those forcefully opened by Hamas in the past. (ICEJ)

· In all matters related to the situation in Gaza, go past the mainstream news to hear what the Holy Spirit would have you to pray. We serve an omniscient God, who can direct our prayers for the safety of 'the apple of His eye," as we intercede accordingly. Pray!

· For thus says the LORD of hosts, "After glory He has sent me against the nations which plunder you, for he who touches you, touches the apple of His eye." (Zech. 2:8)

9. SAUDI PRINCE SAYS U.S. TIES AT RISK OVER GAZA CONDEMNS "ISRAELI ATROCITIES," BUSH'S "SICKENING" LEGACY"

A top Saudi prince warned on Friday that "unless the new [Obama] administration takes forceful steps to prevent any further suffering and slaughter of Palestinians, the peace process, the US-Saudi relationship and the stability of the region are at risk. Israel had come close to "killing the prospect of peace" with its offensive in Gaza, Prince Turki al- Faisal wrote in an article published on the Financial Times website today. "If the US wants to continue playing a leadership role in the Middle East and keep its strategic alliances intact -- especially its 'special relationship' with Saudi Arabia - it will have to drastically revise its policies vis-a-vis Israel and Palestine," Turki wrote.

He also urged new US President Barack Obama to condemn what he called "Israel's atrocities" against the Palestinians and insisted the outgoing administration of US President George W. Bush had left a "sickening legacy" in the Middle East, singling out the Iraq war. He added that Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad had written to Saudi King Abdullah last week urging Saudi Arabia to lead a "jihad", or holy war, against Israel. This call for jihad would, if pursued, create "unprecedented chaos and bloodshed" in the region, said Turki. "So far, the kingdom has resisted these calls, but every day this restraint becomes more difficult to maintain," he said. Turki is a former Saudi intelligence chief and former ambassador to the United States and Britain, but currently holds no official government position in the Saudi regime. (Financial Times)

· Does Mr. Turki speak for himself or for all of Saudi Arabia? Is this a warning to the current president in an attempt to manipulate him and American policy? Do we need "friends," even diplomatic relations with countries whose allegiance to Allah allows them to lie and renege on promises?

· "When a man's ways please the Lord, He makes his enemies to be at peace with him." (Proverbs 16:7)

10. U.S. CONGRESS, SENATE STAND WITH ISRAEL

On Thursday, Jan. 8, 2009, the U.S. Senate passed a resolution S.Res.10 recognizing the right of Israel to defend itself against attacks from Gaza and reaffirming the United States' strong support for Israel in its battle with Hamas and supporting the Israeli- Palestinian peace process. The vote was unanimous in support of Israel. The next day, the House overwhelmingly adopted a resolution to express solidarity with Israel and condemn the Islamist group, Hamas, for its role in the conflict in Gaza and southern Israel. Five Members voted "no" and 22 voted "Present." The resolution read, in part, "Recognizing Israel's right to defend itself against attacks from Gaza, reaffirming the United States' strong support for Israel, and supporting the Israeli-Palestinian peace process." For complete details on these votes, and to read the full text of both resolutions, go here.(Source: Embassy of Israel; Washington, D.C.)

· Offer praise that our Congress is standing with Israel, upholding her right to fight her own terrorists . . . in this case, Hamas. Praise God!

· "Praise ye the LORD!" (Psalm 150:6)

11. ISRAEL RECEIVES AMERICAN FLAG FLOWN DURING INAUGURATION

Last night, at private event honoring The Israel Project at the home Sallai Meridor, Israel's Ambassador to the United States, Congressman Brad Sherman (D-CA) presented Ambassador Meridor with an American flag that will be flown in his honor on top of the US Capitol today, January 20, 2009, as President Barack Obama is sworn in. The Inauguration of America's 44th President comes as Israel has successfully completed a defensive operation against Iran-backed Hamas. The flag symbolizes the strength of the US- Israel relationship. Said Jennifer Laszlo Mizrahi, founder & president of The Israel Project, an organization that gets facts and sources about Israel to the press and the public, "for one of America's greatest leaders to give this flag, which will be flown over the Inauguration of our new President, to one of Israel's most talented, dedicated and important leaders, is a wonderful celebration of freedom, security and the hope for peace." (The Israel Project, Jan. 21, 2009)

· Praise the Lord for this symbolic gesture of America's standing with Israel. Pray that this gesture is prophetic in spite of the president's appointing George Mitchell, an American known to sympathize with the Palestinians, as his envoy to the Middle East. Pray that no man will be able to sever the relationship between the USA and Israel.

· "When the enemy comes inlike a flood, The Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him." (Isaiah 59:19)

This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .

COUNSELOR (Yo-ayts) "For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called . . . Counselor . . ." (Isaiah 9:6 NIV)

Dear Father,

Your counsel rules over all earthly machinations. You are Sovereign, and I am so thankful that I can come to You for the best counsel. Thank You for this wisdom from above -- from You. Help me to have ears to hear, and a heart ready to accept. I thank You for being the Best Counselor. Amen.

(Taken from: Intimate Moments with the Hebrew Names of God, by Barri Cae Malin and Shmuel Wolkenfeld; Bridge-Logos Publishers; Gainesville, FL, 32614. ISBN: 0-88270-801-5)