In This Issue• Today's Daily Brief
• The Middle East in Focus
• CA Supreme Court to Rule on Prop 8 on Tuesday
• A MEMORIAL DAY TRIBUTE
• "National Moment of Remembrance"
• Good News Corner
• How to Receive our Alerts in Text Format
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Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
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The Daily Brief - Friday, May 22, 2009
"Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God." (Psalm 20:7)
Today's Daily Brief
1. Pentagon Clarifies Comments on Repealing 'Don't Ask Don't Tell' - Fox News
The Pentagon, seeking to clarify comments made earlier this week that it has no plans to reverse its ban on gays serving openly in the military, reaffirmed Friday that President Obama remains committed to repealing "Don't Ask Don't Tell." Pentagon spokesman Geoff Morrell, who said Tuesday the military has no plans to repeal the 16- year-old policy, said Defense Secretary Robert Gates believed his comments were being "mischaracterized" by the press and asked him to issue a statement of clarification. "President Obama has been clear in his direction to Secretary Gates and Chairman Mullen (Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff) that he is committed to repeal the 'Don't Ask Don't Tell' policy," Morrell said in a statement released to a few members of the Pentagon press Thursday night and to the rest of the media Friday.
- As important decisions are made about the US military, we pray for there to be an understanding of the will of the soldiers, sailors, and airmen who are called on to defend this nation. May there be an upholding of the traditions that protect Your people from transgressions.
- "Fools mock at sin, But among the upright there is good will." (Proverbs 14:9)
2. Black mayor of Mississippi town brings 'atomic bomb of change' - CNN
James Young still remembers the Ku Klux Klan tormenting his neighborhood. He can still see his father holding a gun on the living room couch ready to shoot anyone who threatened his family. This week, the 53-year-old Young was elected the mayor of Philadelphia, a town of about 8,000 in the east-central part of the state. Despite a 55 percent white majority, Young defeated Rayburn Waddell, a white, three-term incumbent, by the slim margin of 46 votes. Young described the victory as "an atomic bomb of change." Another resident rejoiced, saying Young's win symbolized the scab finally falling off this town's wound. "I couldn't even have wrote that in a fairy tale," Young said. "Who would have thought a little country boy like me would be mayor of Philadelphia, Mississippi?" Philadelphia was the site of one of the most notorious killings of the civil rights era. On June 21, 1964, three civil rights workers -- James Chaney, a 21-year-old black man from Mississippi; Andrew Goodman, 20, and Michael Schwerner, 24, both activists from New York -- were shot to death at the edge of town. The killings inspired the 1988 movie "Mississippi Burning."
- Glory to You for this breakthrough. Lord, we praise You for the reconciliation that is spreading throughout this nation and for the walls that are falling between the races. We pray that the families of the victims of racial violence will be given peace with these advances.
- "To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me." (Acts 26:18)
3. Controversial Obama Faith Advisor Seeks to Dismantle "Heteronormative" Fatherhood "heteronormative" - LifeSiteNews.com
A member of Obama's Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships advisory board has stated that one of the main challenges in promoting "responsible fatherhood" in America will be to dismantle a perception that fatherhood is "heteronormative" - i.e., that heterosexuality is the norm. In addition to his role on Obama's faith advisory board, Knox is the director of the religion and faith program at the Human Rights Campaign, a homosexual activist group. Knox claimed that 25% of gay male couples in America "are raising children - their own and other people's." Last week, several leading American Catholics, including House Republican Leader John Boehner, Catholic League President Bill Donohue, American Life League's Judie Brown, and members of the Family Research Council issued a letter to Obama urging Knox's ouster from the advisory group. In addition to his numerous positions that run directly contrary to traditional moral values, Knox has on several occasions severely criticized the Pope and the Catholic Church. Knox has said he stands by previous comments calling Pope Benedict XVI "morally reprehensible" for not supporting the use of condoms. An open homosexual, Knox called a Cheyenne, WY bishop "immoral and insulting to Jesus" for instructing that an activist lesbian couple not receive Communion. He also labeled the Catholic fraternal group, the Knights of Columbus, "foot soldiers of a discredited army of oppression" for supporting Proposition 8, California's true marriage amendment.
- In this time of calling evil good, we pray that Your design will be evident and that all false proclamations will be knocked down. May the men who are protecting their wives and children be lifted up in prayer and may they feel Your blessing on their lives.
- "We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ, and we are ready to punish all disobedience, whenever your obedience is complete." (2 Corinthians 10:5-6)
4. Computer Virus Strikes FBI, U.S. Marshals Service - AP
Law enforcement computers were struck by a mystery computer virus Thursday, forcing the FBI and the U.S. Marshals to shut down part of their networks as a precaution. The U.S. Marshals confirmed it disconnected from the Justice Department's computers as a protective measure after being hit by the virus; an FBI official said only that that agency was experiencing similar issues and was working on the problem. "We too are evaluating a network issue on our external, unclassified network that's affecting several government agencies," said FBI spokesman Mike Kortan. He did not elaborate or identify the other agencies.
- Thank You that these attacks were recognized and we pray for the mental focus and stamina of those who are on guard against all future attacks.
- "As for you, O king, while on your bed your thoughts turned to what would take place in the future; and He who reveals mysteries has made known to you what will take place." (Daniel 2:29)
5. Meeting of America's Richest About 'Need,' Attendee Says - ABC News
'Under a cloak of secrecy, some of the world's wealthiest people gathered in an unprecedented meeting early this month in New York City "to see how they can join together to do more," according to one attendee. Invited by the world's two richest men Bill Gates and Warren Buffett, along with David Rockefeller, a Who's Who of American wealth and influence gathered around a long table in a window-lined private room overlooking the East River on May 5. Gates and Buffett were joined by billionaire moguls Oprah Winfrey, Ted Turner and New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg along with heavyweight philanthropists George Soros and others. Together the attendees have donated more than $70 billion to charity since 1996, according to the Chronicle of Philanthropy. A clandestine meeting of the country's rich and powerful, left off their public calendars and hidden from the press, is enough to spark the imaginations of conspiracy theorists everywhere, but attendees told ABC News.com the meeting was "100 percent about philanthropy" and it was not meant to be a secret. "It was meant to be a private exchange but it wasn't a secret really, just a private meeting," Stonesifer said.
- Lord, we know that You bring to light any harmful plans made in secret and we pray that the wealth of these men and women will be used for Your glory and not for the advancement of any evil agendas.
- "Do not trust in princes, In mortal man, in whom there is no salvation." (Psalm 146:3)
6. Gay Curriculum Proposal Riles Elementary School Parents - Fox News
A group of parents in a California school district say they are being bullied by school administrators into accepting a new curriculum that addresses bullying, respect and acceptance -- and that includes compulsory lessons about the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community that will be taught to children as young as 5 years old. The parents from the Unified School District in Alameda, a suburb of San Francisco and Oakland, say these issues are best learned at home and most definitely are not age-appropriate for elementary school children. The parents are also angry that they will not be allowed to keep their children out of the classes. "I believe these children are far too young to be learning about what these issues mean," said Alaina Stewart, who has three children who attend elementary school in Alameda. "These are adult issues and they are being thrust upon the children." But the school board says otherwise, and its attorneys say that if the curriculum is adopted, the parents will have no legal right to remove their children from class when the lessons are being taught.
- We praise You for the parents who are fighting to protect their children from indoctrination. May they be allowed to train their children in righteousness and may their teaching at home not be undercut by the schools.
- "Surely, thus says the LORD, "Even the captives of the mighty man will be taken away, And the prey of the tyrant will be rescued; For I will contend with the one who contends with you, And I will save your sons." (Isaiah 49:25)
7. Homegrown Terror Suspects Turned Toward Radicalism in U.S. Prisons - Fox News
The four men charged with plotting to blow up two New York synagogues and shoot down military planes converted to Islam while behind bars, a place terror experts say is a cauldron for Islamic radicalism. James Cromitie, David Williams, Onta Williams and Laguerre Payen were said by friends and family to have become Muslims while in prison, where they began on a path toward terrorist violence that law enforcement officials say is part of a troubling trend in America.
- This is an example of the fears that plague many in this time of moving terrorists into prisons in this nation. May those who are exploiting prisons and jails be brought to light and may the work of prison ministries for You be magnified.
- "Devise a plan, but it will be thwarted; State a proposal, but it will not stand, For God is with us." (Isaiah 8:10)
8. U.S. Courts Should 'Download' International Law into Domestic Law, Obama Nominee Says - CNSNews.com
Harold Koh, nominated by President Barack Obama to be the State Department's top legal adviser, once argued that U.S. federal court judges - including the Supreme Court - are the "critical link" between international and domestic law and play a critical role in bringing international norms into force as domestic law. [IMPORTANT! Go here to read the entire article from CNSNews on Mr. Koh's legal perspective.]
- Lord, help this administration be alert to the danger of relinquishing sovereignty to other nations. We pray for godly men and women to be appointed and for them to be attuned to Your will.
- "The LORD nullifies the counsel of the nations; He frustrates the plans of the peoples." (Psalm 33:10)
The Middle East in Focus
This week, for all the headlines cited below, please join us in proclaiming THIS DECREE:
"Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy, and gathered out of the lands, from the east and from the west, from the north and from the south." (Psalm 107: 1-3)
1. IDF soldiers foil terrorist attack near Gaza Strip border - Jerusalem Post
Two terrorists were killed in a fire-exchange with IDF soldiers on Friday morning.
2. Netanyahu says all of Jerusalem to remain Israeli - USA Today
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insisted Thursday that all of Jerusalem will always remain under Israeli sovereignty, despite Palestinian demands for control over part of the city.
3. IAF completes nationwide drill - Ynet News
The Air Force (IAF) completed a three-day drill Thursday that included various scenarios and staged fronts the force may have to handle. Pilots also practiced a number of combat maneuvers.
4. PA officials 'surprised' by US Middle East plan - Jerusalem Post
Palestinian Authority officials said on Wednesday that they had been "surprised" to hear about US President Barack Obama's new peace plan from the Israeli media, noting that Washington had not informed the PA leadership about the initiative.
5. Israelis Celebrate "Jerusalem Day" Today - Emet News
Today, Friday, May 22, 2009/28 Iyar 5769, is Jerusalem Day. It's the celebration of the 1967 reunification of the city of Jerusalem. In addition, it also commemorates Israel's regaining its land in Judea, Samaria and Gaza.
6. Pentagon chief warns nuclear Iran would be 'calamitous' - ICEJ News
Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs-of-Staff Adm. Mike Mullen said Thursday that the consequences of Iran acquiring a nuclear weapon would be "calamitous" and that major powers must join hands and act to prevent it, Reuters reported.
7. Israeli Air Force Holds Exercise Simulating War With Iran - AP
Israeli defense officials say the country's air force has completed a large-scale exercise simulating war on several fronts with enemies that include Iran. They say this week's exercise included Israel's entire air arm and was meant to prepare for an all-out war, including missile attacks aimed at Israeli cities.
• We pray for protection for Israel in this dangerous time and pray for the minds of the Israelis and other intelligence agencies to be clear and focused in order to stop any potential attacks.
• "Proclaim this among the nations: Prepare a war; rouse the mighty men! Let all the soldiers draw near, let them come up!" (Joel 3:9)
California Supreme Court to Rule on Prop 8 on Tuesday
Capitol Resource Institute asks for prayer:
The California Supreme Court will announce its Proposition 8 ruling on Tuesday, May 26.
The ruling will address whether Prop 8 is a proper and acceptable amendment of the California Constitution. If the amendment process is upheld, man-woman marriage will stay in the state Constitution. If the court rules against Prop 8, that definition of marriage will be removed.
Be in prayer over this Memorial Day weekend, as California prepares for the highly anticipated announcement from our state Supreme Court.
The implications of this ruling are profound, from the institution of marriage itself to the message that our laws send to the next generation.
Opponents of the Prop 8 amendment process are planning statewide demonstrations -- either celebrations or protests -- May 26. They also plan a "Meet in the Middle" rally in Fresno for Saturday, May 30th, as part of their efforts to move the state away from man-woman marriage.
Capitol Resource Institute will issue a statement this coming Tuesday, once the ruling is public.
• Father God, we come before Your Throne of Grace on behalf of this key ruling. Lord God, we ask that You would move upon the hearts of the judges in the Supreme Court of the State of California to judge with WISDOM and according to RIGHTEOUS STANDARDS. May each one rule in the fear of GOD, which brings wisdom. We ask this in Jesus' Name, amen.
• "Yet they seek Me daily, and delight to know My ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and did not forsake the ordinance of their God. They ask of Me the ordinances of justice; they take delight in approaching God." (Isaiah 58:2)
A MEMORIAL DAY TRIBUTE
[Editor's note: this story was first published on Tuesday, November 6, 2007. The numbers of casualties is now higher, but the story remains the same.
This is an article that describes the ritual that happens every Friday morning at the Pentagon--a story that has not been covered by the press but should be in the minds and hearts of every American.
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners wishes to extend our deepest blessings and gratitude to the men and women of the armed forces of the United States Of America, and to all those who have served. May God bless and keep you all. Happy Memorial Day.]
FRIDAY MORNING AT THE PENTAGON
By JOSEPH L. GALLOWAY
McClatchy Newspapers
November 6, 2007
Over the last 12 months, 1,042 soldiers, Marines, sailors and Air Force personnel have given their lives in the terrible duty that is war. Thousands more have come home on stretchers, horribly wounded and facing months or years in military hospitals.
This week, I'm turning my space over to a good friend and former roommate, Army Lt. Col. Robert Bateman, who recently completed a year long tour of duty in Iraq and is now back at the Pentagon.
Here's Lt. Col. Bateman's account of a little-known ceremony that fills the halls of the Army corridor of the Pentagon with cheers, applause and many tears every Friday morning. It first appeared on May 17 on the Weblog of media critic and pundit Eric Alterman at the Media Matters for America Website.
"It is 110 yards from the "E" ring to the "A" ring of the Pentagon. This section of the Pentagon is newly renovated; the floors shine, the hallway is broad, and the lighting is bright. At this instant the entire length of the corridor is packed with officers, a few sergeants and some civilians, all crammed tightly three and four deep against the walls. There are thousands here.
This hallway, more than any other, is the Army' hallway. The G3 offices line one side, G2 the other, G8 is around the corner. All Army. Moderate conversations flow in a low buzz. Friends who may not have seen each other for a few weeks, or a few years, spot each other, cross the way and renew their friendships.
Everyone shifts to ensure an open path remains down the center. The air conditioning system was not designed for this press of bodies in this area. The temperature is rising already. Nobody cares.10:36 hours: The clapping starts at the E-Ring. That is the outer most of the five rings of the Pentagon and it is closest to the entrance to the building.. This clapping is low, sustained, hearty. It is applause with a deep emotion behind it as it moves forward in a wave down the length of the hallway.
A steady rolling wave of sound it is, moving at the pace of the soldier in the wheelchair who marks the forward edge with his presence. He is the first. He is missing the greater part of one leg, and some of his wounds are still suppurating. By his age I expect that he is a private, or perhaps a private first class.
Captains, majors, lieutenant colonels and colonels meet his gaze and nod as they applaud, soldier to soldier. Three years ago when I described one of these events, those lining the hallways were somewhat different. The applause a little wilder, perhaps in private guilt for not having shared in the burden - yet.
Now almost everyone lining the hallway is, like the man in the wheelchair, also a combat veteran. This steadies the applause, but I think deepens the sentiment. We have all been there now. The soldier's chair is pushed by, I believe, a full colonel. Behind him, and stretching the length from Rings E to A, come more of his peers, each private, corporal, or sergeant assisted as need be by a field grade officer.
11:00 hours: Twenty-four minutes of steady applause. My hands hurt, and I laugh to myself at how stupid that sounds in my own head. My hands hurt. Please! Shut up and clap. For twenty-four minutes, soldier after soldier has come down this hallway - 20, 25, 30. Fifty-three legs come with them, and perhaps only 52 hands or arms, but down this hall came 30 solid hearts.
They pass down this corridor of officers and applause, and then meet for a private lunch, at which they are the guests of honor, hosted by the generals. Some are wheeled along. Some insist upon getting out of their chairs, to march as best they can with their chin held up, down this hallway, through this most unique audience. Some are catching handshakes and smiling like a politician at a Fourth of July parade. More than a couple of them seem amazed and are smiling shyly.
There are families with them as well: the 18-year-old war-bride pushing her 19-year-old husband's wheelchair and not quite understanding why her husband is so affected by this, the boy she grew up with, now a man, who had never shed a tear is crying; the older immigrant Latino parents who have, perhaps more than their wounded mid-20's son, an appreciation for the emotion given on their son's behalf. No man in that hallway, walking or clapping, is ashamed by the silent tears on more than a few cheeks. An Airborne Ranger wipes his eyes only to better see. A couple of the officers in this crowd have themselves been a part of this parade in the past.
These are our men, broken in body they may be, but they are our brothers, and we welcome them home. This parade has gone on, every single Friday, all year long, for more than four years.
Did you know that? The media hasn't yet told the story . . and probably never will.
"National Moment of Remembrance"
3:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time
Memorial Day 2009
We have received this letter from Linda Blankenship, National Prayer Coordinator, Christian Coalition of America. Capitol Hill Prayer Partners wishes to encourage all of our partners and friends to join in this call to "A National Moment of Remembrance" on Monday, May 25th -- Memorial Day 2009. Thank you.
To Our Prayer Partners,
On May 25, 2009 our nation is called again as a people to honor our National Memorial Day. This is a Federal Holiday set aside for reflection and thanksgiving for our freedom. We must with great passion remember all those who died for our freedom and each family that continues to carry painful memories and loss due to their dedication defending America for each of us and our future. The set time for our "National Moment of Remembrance" is 3PM Eastern Time. A time set aside to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice and we are the beneficiaries of that sacrifice.
Please continue to pray for national repentance and revival, our government, military, Israel, poverty, each policy of our nation to reflect our Godly roots, youth of America, national debt, the stock market to rebound and stabilize, educational system, environment, justice, religious liberty, immigration and Godliness.
Amen.
Good News Corner
The Nature of Prayer
Prayer is not trying to get God to change His will. It is trying to find out what His will is, to align ourselves or realign ourselves with His purpose for the world and for us. That's why it is so important for us to listen as well as talk when we pray. . . .
Thought to Ponder . . .
Life is fragile, handle with prayer. (Source: Anonymous)
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