In This Issue
• On Capitol Hill This Week: Vol. XVI, No. 20
• This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
Greetings!
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
Partners in Prayer for the Nation
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net
"O, Lord, You have heard the desire of the humble; You will strengthen their heart . . ." (Psalm 10:17)
1. OBAMA STANDS FIRM ON RESTRAINED RESPONSE TO IRAN PROTESTS
2. CONGRESS VOTES TO SUPPORT IRAN PROTESTS
3. OBAMA: U.S. "FULLY PREPARED" FOR NORTH KOREAN THREATS
4. CONGRESS QUESTIONS PRICE TAG FOR OBAMA'S HEALTH CARE PLAN
5. UPDATE: S. 909: HATE CRIMES BILL
6. OBAMA CHANGES FEDERAL REGULATIONS ON GAY BENEFITS
7. MRS. CLINTON EXTENDS GAY BENEFITS TO EMPLOYEES OF DEPT. OF STATE
8. OBAMA WILL WORK WITH CONGRESS TO OVERTURN DOMA
9. SENATE REJECTS TRIBUTE TO ABORTION PROVIDERS
10. SOTOMAYOR'S PROBLEMS ON GUN RIGHTS AND ABORTION
11. UPDATE: OBAMA FIRES HIS AMERICORPS INSPECTOR GENERAL
12. U.N. TREATY THREATENS LOSS OF PARENTAL RIGHTS
13. ISRAELI GOVERNMENT FACES CHALLENGES AFTER NETANYAHU'S SPEECH
14. GAY PARADE IN JERUSALEM ON JUNE 25TH
1. OBAMA STANDS FIRM ON RESTRAINED RESPONSE TO IRAN PROTESTS
President Obama is sticking with his call for a restrained U.S. response to Iran's post-election protests as pressure mounts from the GOP for him to "lead" by declaring his support for the country's pro-reform demonstrations. "The last thing that I want to do is to have the United States be a foil for those forces inside Iran who would love nothing better than to make this an argument about the United States," Obama said in an interview broadcast Monday on CBS' "The Early Show."
GOP lawmakers said the president should make a less muted statement about the quest for democracy in Iran, whose leaders run the country according to Sharia law and are believed to be pursuing nuclear weapons. "The president of the United States is supposed to lead the free world, not follow it," Sen. Lindsey Graham (R- SC) said Sunday. "He's been timid and passive more than I would like." Obama's Republican opponent in last year's election, Sen. John McCain, and others noted that Western leaders, including French President Nicolas Sarkozy and German Chancellor Angela Merkel, have demanded a recount or more forcefully condemned the government crackdown.
Like other Democrats who spoke Sunday, Sen. Dianne Feinstein backed the president's approach. Obama's defenders say his measured response speaks up for human rights while preserving U.S. options and lessening the chance that he becomes a scapegoat for the cleric-led government. Sen. Richard Lugar, a moderate Republican who holds the party's top position on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, seemed to echo Obama's caution. (AP) Read more.
• Pray that the president's muted response does not hide an agenda that agrees with sharia law. Ask the Lord to send into Congress more voices who will continue to pressure the president to stand for democracy, for his excuses are flimsy at best. Of course, President George W. Bush called for the spread of democracy throughout the Middle East, but President Obama ought also to believe in such support and measures. Pray that the Lord brings dreams in the night to Mr. Obama about standing for righteousness, a word he seems to avoid.
• "Remember this, and show yourselves men. Recall to mind, you transgressors . . .For I am God, and there is no other God. I am God, and there is none like Me." (Isaiah 46:8,9)
2. CONGRESS VOTES TO SUPPORT IRAN PROTESTS
Despite Obama's silence, the House passed a bi-partisan resolution today supporting the Iranian dissidents who share our values. Rep. Mike Pence (R-IN) and Rep. Howard Berman (D-CA) introduced the following legislation on the House floor: "Expressing support for all Iranian citizens who embrace the values of freedom, human rights, civil liberties, and rule of law, and for other purposes. Resolved, That the House of Representatives-
(1) expresses its support for all Iranian citizens who embrace the values of freedom, human rights, civil liberties, and rule of law;
(2) condemns the ongoing violence against demonstrators by the Government of Iran and pro-government militias, as well as the ongoing government suppression of independent electronic communication through interference with the Internet and cell phones; and
(3) affirms the university of individual rights and the importance of democratic and fair elections."
The resolution passed by an overwhelming margin of 405-to-1. Who was the single representative who voted against the resolution? Nancy Pelosi? Barney Frank? No, it was none other than Republican isolationist Ron Paul of Texas. At least one of our branches of government has offered its support for the courageous Iranian citizens risking their lives in the name of freedom and democracy. (Gary Bauer)
• Praise the Lord that the youth in Iran have smelled independence - freedom from oppression and dictatorship - and want that for their home country. Praise the Lord for His use of electronic devices to spread freedom. Pray that the violence will be stopped but not the drive for freedom. Also, many Christians, though hidden, live in Iran, and they need the protection of the Lord. Ask the Lord to open up Iran like a ripe tomato that needs eating now.
• "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope." (Jeremiah 29:11)
3. OBAMA: U.S. "FULLY PREPARED" FOR NORTH KOREAN THREATS
With North Korea reportedly getting ready for a long-range missile test, President Barack Obama says the U.S. is prepared for any threat the secretive and unpredictable regime might pose. "This administration -- and our military is fully prepared for any contingencies," Obama said during an interview with CBS News. The interview was taped Friday and broadcast Monday morning. "I don't want to speculate on hypotheticals," Obama said. "But I want . . . to give assurances to the American people that the t's are crossed and the i's are dotted in terms of what might happen. . . What we're not going to do is to reward belligerence and provocation in the way that's been done in the past," he said.
A senior U.S. military official told The Associated Press on Friday that a Navy ship, the USS John S. McCain, was relatively close to the North Korean vessel but had no orders to intercept it and had not requested that authority. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitive issue of ship movements.
The Navy ship, a guided missile destroyer, is named after the grandfather and father of Republican Sen. John McCain. Both were admirals. Sen. McCain, who lost the 2008 presidential election to Obama, said Sunday that the U.S. should board the Kang Nam even without North Korean permission if hard evidence shows it is carrying missiles or other cargo in violation of U.N. resolutions. "I think we should board it. It's going to contribute to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction to rogue nations that pose a direct threat to the United States," McCain said on CBS. (AP) Read more.
• Father we ask that Your mercy reign over the people of America. We erect a hedge of the Blood of Jesus over Hawaii, Alaska, and all places in between North Korea and the farthest range of their missiles. We call upon You to destroy the wicked and evil schemes of DPRK leadership.
• "But the wicked shall be cut off from the earth . . . " (Proverbs 2:22a)
4. CONGRESS QUESTIONS PRICE TAG FOR OBAMA'S HEALTH CARE PLAN
Obama Allies Worried Health Care Plan Lacks Necessary Votes
Obama's proposal to provide health care coverage for some 50 million Americans who lack it has become a contentious point for a Democratic-controlled House and Senate struggling to reach a consensus Obama desperately wants. Much of the concern came after the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimated that the plan would cost $1 trillion over 10 years but cover only about one-third of those now lacking health insurance.
Sen. Chuck Grassley, the top Republican on the Finance Committee, said officials would have to rethink their best-case scenario for providing a sweeping overhaul of the health care system at a relatively low price. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, a California Democrat, said she wasn't certain there are enough votes in the president's own party to support the proposal. "I think there's a lot of concern in the Democratic caucus," she said.
Republican Senators John McCain of Arizona, and Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, said the bill's cost was problematic. "You do the math," McCain said. "It comes up to $3 trillion. And so far, we have no proposal for having to pay for it." (AP).
• Continue to pray for WISDOM for THIS CONGRESS in all matters related to the complicated issue of health care. We recall that, after prayer and careful investigation, another health care plan
-- proposed in 1994 under Mrs. Clinton (then First Lady) -- never saw the light of day for a vote in either the House or the Senate. If God could do this then, He can do this now. Pray that any changes that are made to providing health care for all Americans would be in the center of God's will and would help -- not bankrupt -- our country.
• "He who speaks truth declares righteousness, but a false witness, deceit - but the tongue of the wise promotes health." (Proverbs 12:17a,18b)
5. UPDATE: S. 909: HATE CRIMES BILL
Many Washington insiders expected the Democrats' thought crimes bill to be attached as an amendment to an existing bill this week without notice or hearings. However, so many calls and letters have been received by Senators that today the Senate Committee on the Judiciary announced it would hold a hearing on the "Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2009' on Thursday, June 25, 2009. This is a major setback for homosexual groups who had hoped no one who opposes the thought crimes legislation would have an opportunity to speak at hearings. (Religious Freedom Coalition)
To learn more about what is included in this bill, we recommend an article by Traditional Values Coalition entitled: "Protecting 30 Bizarre "Sexual Orientations" And "Gender Identity" -- Ever-Expanding Definitions."
• Please call the offices of your senators to tell them to not vote for any legislation that promotes "Hate Crimes," whether as 'stand alone' resolution or as an amendment. If necessary, remind your senators' offices that the senators represent the electorate, not Harry Reid nor the president. Stand for the truth and God's principles. Be bold, for we cannot allow our freedom of speech to be violated in any way. There is no viable reason for the passage of this bill.
• "Therefore, to him that who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin." (James 4:17)
6. OBAMA CHANGES FEDERAL REGULATIONS ON GAY BENEFITS
This week, Obama announced that he is changing government regulations to begin extending federal benefits to the partners of gay federal employees - which will essentially treats them like married couples. According to the details, gay and lesbian partners of federal employees will be given access to health care benefits, financial benefits and relocation fees. And of course this comes after Obama declared June to be "Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month". Obama's actions come after he received letters from prominent gay-rights groups, complaining that he had not done enough for them.
Then there was the decision this week by the Washington DC Board of Elections to reject the request of a coalition of black ministers to allow voters in the nation's capital to vote on overturning the City Council's recent decision to begin giving official recognition to gay marriages performed in other states. They claimed the vote could lead to "discrimination". This comes the same week that a new CBS News poll found that support for gay marriage has dropped by nine points in the last two months to only 33%.
Clearly the majority of the American people are opposed to gay marriage. But the politicians in Washington have to hear from you. (Christian Coalition of America)
• Stand in repentance for another wicked decree from the White House. We must remember that the wicked act wickedly, because they are wicked. Walking without the light of Christ can Bring only darkened understanding in all things. Pray for the salvation of our president, for God Commands that we do so.
• "I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone - for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth." (I Tim. 2:1-4)
7. MRS. CLINTON EXTENDS GAY BENEFITS TO EMPLOYEES OF DEPT. OF STATE
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton Thursday issued an order granting diplomatic passports, medical care and U.S. government jobs overseas to homosexual partners of U.S. diplomats. In effect a homosexual "partner" of a diplomat will be given employment preference over other applicants, even if he has no experience. As a result of receiving these diplomatic passports, homosexual partners of diplomats can no longer be arrested in the vast majority of nations where homosexuality is illegal. Later that same day, Clinton fell on the way to the White House breaking her elbow. (Religious Freedom Coalition)
• Once again, the wicked produce wicked decrees . . . Because they are Wicked. Pray for the salvation of Hillary Rodham Clinton. Pray!
• "Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners-of whom I am the worst." (I Tim. 1:15)
8. OBAMA WILL WORK WITH CONGRESS TO OVERTURN DOMA
While attempting to wrestle with the recession, socialize our healthcare, reconstruct the financial industry, run our car companies and swatting flies, the president found time yesterday evening to reaffirm his commitment to fundamentally redefine the meaning of marriage. At an Oval Office ceremony, the Mr. Obama issued a presidential memorandum directing the heads of various government departments to begin providing whatever taxpayer-funded benefits they could to the partners of homosexual federal employees.
However, the president also acknowledged that he could only go so far because of the Defense of Marriage Act - a federal law that defines marriage as the union of one man and one woman, which protects the people of one state from being forced to recognize the homosexual "marriages" performed in another state. President Obama reiterated his desire to see that law repealed, saying, ". . . this Presidential Memorandum is just a start. I stand by my long-standing commitment to work with Congress to repeal the so-called Defense of Marriage Act."
I hope you understand and appreciate the significance of that statement. This president wants to repeal the one law that stands in the way of having same-sex "marriage" forced on every state in the union by unelected judges. The people of 30 states have voted to define marriage as the union of a man and woman, but Barack Obama believes that is "discriminatory," and he wants to force the people of Virginia [and all states] to affirm the values of Vermont. (Gary Bauer)
• Fervently pray that the DOMA act is never overruled and that the Lord prevents the president from maneuvering same-sex marriage into the federal law of the land. When the president was honored for his first 100 days in office, he said words to the effect that the next 73 days would bring about stunning changes. This removal of the DOMA act is possibly one of those changes. Pray for the Lord to work in our president's heart.
• "The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?" (Jeremiah 17:9)
9. SENATE REJECTS TRIBUTE TO ABORTION PROVIDERS
The U.S. House had its busiest day in the history of Congress yesterday, voting a record 53 times. To put that number in perspective, those 53 votes were almost a quarter of all the votes conducted in the House this year! Over in the Senate chamber, the members weren't nearly as productive--but that was just fine with pro-lifers, who were staring down a resolution in honor of the slain abortionist, George Tiller.
The Kansas doctor, who presided over 60,000 late-term abortions, has been the subject of congressional talks ever since his murder. Rather than praise Tiller's legacy of death, House members decided to pass a resolution condemning all violence. That didn't satisfy the most militantly pro-abortion Senators, who tried--without success--to find enough sponsors to introduce a resolution paying tribute to all abortion providers and "the services they provide."
Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) spoke on the Senate floor yesterday, lamenting the fact that her colleagues wouldn't support the idea. "I know that there are many heartfelt feelings on both sides of this issue and on both sides of the aisle," she said. "However, I was hopeful that regardless of our differences of opinion... the Senate could come together and pass a resolution that rejects the use of violence against reproductive care providers."
Interestingly enough, Shaheen says that people advised her to strip any mention of abortionists if she wanted to pass the measure. She refused, and her cause failed. What an encouragement to the pro-life community that while some Senators may vote in favor of abortion, they stand strongly against any effort to glorify it. Like us, they realize that just as violence cannot be tolerated, neither can any effort to exalt those who practice it against the unborn. (Family Research Council)
• Praise the Lord that many of our senators do exercise their consciences, either because of the godly values with which they were reared or because they listened to their constituents. Pray for Senator Shaheen to receive Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and all other senators who sponsored this resolution to honor abortionists.
• "The righteous shall be glad in the Lord, and trust in Him, And all the upright in heart shall glory." (Psalm 64:10)
10. SOTOMAYOR'S PROBLEMS ON GUN RIGHTS AND ABORTION
The more information that becomes public on Sonia Sotomayor, the more cause for concern Americans seem to have about the possibility of her sitting on the highest court in the land for a lifetime appointment. During the past few weeks, she's made the rounds in the Senate, paying courtesy calls to various senators so they can "get to know her". . . as she's made these visits, she appears to be raising some eyebrows on some pretty important issues.
When it comes to gun rights, she seems to have some hostility to the Second Amendment, or at least the way in which the vast majority of Americans interpret it. After her meeting with Senator Jim DeMint, he stated that she was "unwilling to say the Second Amendment protects a fundamental right that applies to all Americans, which raises serious questions about her view of the Bill of Rights". . .
In her meeting with Senator DeMint, he asked her about abortion - whether or not an unborn child had any rights whatsoever, to which she responded that she had never thought about it. . . If she hasn't "thought" about the rights of the unborn, what other rights hasn't she thought about?
Hopefully, the Senate Republicans will make an effort to shed light on these and other issues in the coming confirmation hearings. (Christian Coalition of America) Read more.
• Please contact the senators from your state and let them know how you think they should vote on the confirmation of Judge Sotomayor to the Supreme Court. Pray that all senators will listen to their constituents' voices and will yield to the Constitution in their vote of confirmation. Praise the Lord for Sen. DeMint and other like-minded senators regardless of their political affiliation.
• ". . .the Lord . . . may show you mercy, have compassion on you, and multiply you . . . because you have listened to the voice of the Lord your God, to keep all His commandments which I command you today to do what is right in the eyes of the Lord you God." (Deuteronomy 13:17a, 18)
11. UPDATE: OBAMA FIRES HIS AMERICORPS INSPECTOR GENERAL
Every year, the federal government disperses hundreds and hundreds of billions of dollars - your tax dollars - to various projects and programs. In order to ensure that your money is not wasted, each department has an office of independent auditors known as inspectors general or IGs. Last year, Congress passed a law designed to strengthen their independence from political pressure. Then Senator Obama was one of the co-sponsors of that legislation. But now it appears as though President Obama has run afoul of that very law and a scandal is brewing that has yet to be noticed by the "mainstream media."
In a move denounced by both Republicans and Democrats as a violation of the new protections for IGs, President Obama recently fired Americorps IG Gerald Walpin. Walpin's work was getting very close to some very big Obama supporters and he recently received a call from the White House telling him he had one hour to resign or be fired. Walpin refused to go and was sacked. The White House responded to the controversy with wild accusations suggesting Mr. Walpin suffered from dementia. Today there is breaking news that Walpin isn't the only IG to be fired. But there's another story here too.
When Bush fired eight political appointees it was front page news, and, believe it or not, Democrats in Congress are still investigating that. But when Obama fires not one, but now three inspectors general, just as his administration is getting ready to spend billions of stimulus dollars even faster, Democrats and the media are silent. As one commentator observed, "WHERE ARE THE WATCHDOGS of the establishment media? Oh, that's right: They are no longer watchdogs but lapdogs, and particularly slobbering ones at that. . ." (Gary Bauer)
• Several commentators have recently said that journalism is dead. Pray for its resurrection in the mainstream media. Christian journalists must join the media and then be protected by our prayers so that they are neither silenced nor fired from reporting the truth. Pray that wicked minds cannot devise strategies against those who are assigned to be watchmen on the walls of our government. Pray for honesty to return to the White House.
• "But each one is tempted when he is drawn away and enticed by his own desires. Then when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death." (James 1: 14,15)
12. U.N. TREATY THREATENS LOSS OF PARENTAL RIGHTS
This is not just about the right to homeschool. This is much more insidious. This is the beginning of the loss of our parental rights to train our children as we see morally fit. In essence, this is about handing our sovereign rights to raise our children over to the United Nations: Currently, family and education laws are state-based; however, ratification of the UNCRC would transfer the jurisdiction for making family and education law to the U.S. Congress. Congress would, in turn, be obligated to follow the UN mandates contained in the CRC. "
This is dangerous legislation that would allow the United Nations to dictate how we can raise our children. I implore that everyone contact your congressmen and ask them to support the Parental Rights Amendment that would offer protection of our freedoms to parent. Senate Joint Resolution 16, was introduced by Senator Jim DeMint of South Carolina in May. Currently, Senator DeMint is the only sponsor. There are 93 sponsors for the House version of the Parental Rights Amendment, to date. However, only one senator is currently sponsoring the senate version. So, now is the time to contact your senators and urge them to sign on as cosponsors to S.J.Res. 16, the Parental Rights Amendment, in the U.S. Senate. Also, please contact your representatives in the House and insure that they will support this crucial amendment.
This may be one of the most devastating pieces of legislation ever that could affect Christians. If UNCRC is ratified by our Congress, it would lead to the eventual loss of our rights to Biblically train up our children and would destroy even further the moral fabric of our country. Please pass this on to all your email contacts and take a stance. If we don't, we as parents will be under the dictates of the liberal United Nations.
HSLDA has been warning that the UNCRC could bring an end to homeschool freedom in the U.S., if the treaty was ever ratified by the U.S. Senate because Article VI of the U.S. Constitution says that treaties become the supreme law of the land. For the UNCRC to be ratified it must gain a two-thirds vote in the U.S. Senate. The only answer at this point would be to add a Parental Rights Amendment (PRA) to the Constitution.
To find out more about the Parental Rights Amendment, visit www.parentalrights.org.
• Pray that more sponsors in the Senate join Sen. DeMint in backing this amendment. Americans are not willing to give parental rights to Congress or to a UN treaty. Please pass this information to your email list, for the UNCRC is another wicked device of the devil to keep people out of heaven, especially your children. Check with your representatives also, for 93 representatives is not enough votes for a resolution. There are 435 representatives in the House.
• "Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it." (Proverbs 22:6)
13. ISRAELI GOVERNMENT FACES CHALLENGES AFTER NETANYAHU'S SPEECH
(From: Intercessors for Israel) In the wake of an amazing speech by Netanyahu, the government is faced with many challenges. Members of the far right part of the coalition are rising up against Netanyahu. The PA immediately rejected the WHOLE speech showing the world where they really stand. The international community was quick to support the speech, but the US State Department has continued its demand to freeze all settlement activity.
We prayed:
• Netanyahu and his advisors would have wisdom on how to deal with the internal dissent in the coalition.
• That gains made through the speech would not be undercut by the demands to cease settlement activity.
• May the government unite under Netanyahu's leadership the way the Israeli people seem to have in the last week.
• Thank you Lord that he began his speech with the prophets and emphasized that Israel's right to this Land is not simply a result of the Holocaust. Israel's right to the Land extends through history according to the promises of God.
• Help the people and the government to not give into fear or intimidation that will come in the wake of the speech.
• Give Netanyahu the wisdom of Solomon to discern truth and to be able to act with Godly Justice.
• May his counselors be sent from You Lord. May Netanyahu listen to good counsel and nothing that is meant to manipulate or control.
• "Give the king Your judgments, O God, and Your righteousness to the king's Son. He will judge Your people with righteousness, and Your poor with justice. The mountains will bring peace to the people, and the little hills, by righteousness. He will bring justice to the poor of the people; He will save the children of the needy, and will break in pieces the oppressor." (Psalm 72:1-4)
14. GAY PARADE IN JERUSALEM ON JUNE 25TH
(From: Intercessors for Israel) Not many people are aware that a Gay Pride Parade is scheduled for June 25th in Jerusalem. This parade got massive amounts of media coverage last year and was widely protested. This year, it has almost slipped under the radar. In the wake of the riots by the Orthodox community last week over the opening on a parking lot on Shabbat, it is feared that more violence is coming this week. For this parade to happen in the city which God has chosen to put His name it is like giving a slap in His face.
We prayed:
• May this parade be cancelled which rises up to insult the God of Israel and His reputation.
• Let the mayor Nir Barket and the police chief be given the wisdom to know how to act.
• That there would be know violence or rioting by the Orthodox Jews.
• May the Lord turn back this perverse spirit that seeks to invade His city.
• "Hear this, O house of Jacob, who are called by the name of Israel, and have come forth from the wellsprings of Judah; Who swear by the name of the LORD, And make mention of the God of Israel, but not in truth or in righteousness; For they call themselves after the holy city, And lean on the God of Israel; The LORD of hosts is His name." (Isaiah 48:1-2)
This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
THE LORD WHO HEALS YOU (Adoni Rofehkha)
He said, "If you listen carefully to the voice of the LORD your God and do what is right in his eyes, if you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the LORD, who heals you." (Exodus 15:26)
Thank You, Lord, that when I have nowhere to turn for help for the sinful things that still combat my soul, You are there. Father, temptations assail me daily, yet You are the LORD who heals me. Thank you for healing me from the things of the past and from things hidden now. 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 Week: Vol. XVI, No. 20
• This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
Greetings!
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
Partners in Prayer for the Nation
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net
On Capitol Hill This Week - Volume XVI, Number 20
June 22 - 26, 2009
"O, Lord, You have heard the desire of the humble; You will strengthen their heart . . ." (Psalm 10:17)
1. OBAMA STANDS FIRM ON RESTRAINED RESPONSE TO IRAN PROTESTS
2. CONGRESS VOTES TO SUPPORT IRAN PROTESTS
3. OBAMA: U.S. "FULLY PREPARED" FOR NORTH KOREAN THREATS
4. CONGRESS QUESTIONS PRICE TAG FOR OBAMA'S HEALTH CARE PLAN
5. UPDATE: S. 909: HATE CRIMES BILL
6. OBAMA CHANGES FEDERAL REGULATIONS ON GAY BENEFITS
7. MRS. CLINTON EXTENDS GAY BENEFITS TO EMPLOYEES OF DEPT. OF STATE
8. OBAMA WILL WORK WITH CONGRESS TO OVERTURN DOMA
9. SENATE REJECTS TRIBUTE TO ABORTION PROVIDERS
10. SOTOMAYOR'S PROBLEMS ON GUN RIGHTS AND ABORTION
11. UPDATE: OBAMA FIRES HIS AMERICORPS INSPECTOR GENERAL
12. U.N. TREATY THREATENS LOSS OF PARENTAL RIGHTS
13. ISRAELI GOVERNMENT FACES CHALLENGES AFTER NETANYAHU'S SPEECH
14. GAY PARADE IN JERUSALEM ON JUNE 25TH
1. OBAMA STANDS FIRM ON RESTRAINED RESPONSE TO IRAN PROTESTS
President Obama is sticking with his call for a restrained U.S. response to Iran's post-election protests as pressure mounts from the GOP for him to "lead" by declaring his support for the country's pro-reform demonstrations. "The last thing that I want to do is to have the United States be a foil for those forces inside Iran who would love nothing better than to make this an argument about the United States," Obama said in an interview broadcast Monday on CBS' "The Early Show."
GOP lawmakers said the president should make a less muted statement about the quest for democracy in Iran, whose leaders run the country according to Sharia law and are believed to be pursuing nuclear weapons. "The president of the United States is supposed to lead the free world, not follow it," Sen. Lindsey Graham (R- SC) said Sunday. "He's been timid and passive more than I would like." Obama's Republican opponent in last year's election, Sen. John McCain, and others noted that Western leaders, including French President Nicolas Sarkozy and German Chancellor Angela Merkel, have demanded a recount or more forcefully condemned the government crackdown.
Like other Democrats who spoke Sunday, Sen. Dianne Feinstein backed the president's approach. Obama's defenders say his measured response speaks up for human rights while preserving U.S. options and lessening the chance that he becomes a scapegoat for the cleric-led government. Sen. Richard Lugar, a moderate Republican who holds the party's top position on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, seemed to echo Obama's caution. (AP) Read more.
• Pray that the president's muted response does not hide an agenda that agrees with sharia law. Ask the Lord to send into Congress more voices who will continue to pressure the president to stand for democracy, for his excuses are flimsy at best. Of course, President George W. Bush called for the spread of democracy throughout the Middle East, but President Obama ought also to believe in such support and measures. Pray that the Lord brings dreams in the night to Mr. Obama about standing for righteousness, a word he seems to avoid.
• "Remember this, and show yourselves men. Recall to mind, you transgressors . . .For I am God, and there is no other God. I am God, and there is none like Me." (Isaiah 46:8,9)
2. CONGRESS VOTES TO SUPPORT IRAN PROTESTS
Despite Obama's silence, the House passed a bi-partisan resolution today supporting the Iranian dissidents who share our values. Rep. Mike Pence (R-IN) and Rep. Howard Berman (D-CA) introduced the following legislation on the House floor: "Expressing support for all Iranian citizens who embrace the values of freedom, human rights, civil liberties, and rule of law, and for other purposes. Resolved, That the House of Representatives-
(1) expresses its support for all Iranian citizens who embrace the values of freedom, human rights, civil liberties, and rule of law;
(2) condemns the ongoing violence against demonstrators by the Government of Iran and pro-government militias, as well as the ongoing government suppression of independent electronic communication through interference with the Internet and cell phones; and
(3) affirms the university of individual rights and the importance of democratic and fair elections."
The resolution passed by an overwhelming margin of 405-to-1. Who was the single representative who voted against the resolution? Nancy Pelosi? Barney Frank? No, it was none other than Republican isolationist Ron Paul of Texas. At least one of our branches of government has offered its support for the courageous Iranian citizens risking their lives in the name of freedom and democracy. (Gary Bauer)
• Praise the Lord that the youth in Iran have smelled independence - freedom from oppression and dictatorship - and want that for their home country. Praise the Lord for His use of electronic devices to spread freedom. Pray that the violence will be stopped but not the drive for freedom. Also, many Christians, though hidden, live in Iran, and they need the protection of the Lord. Ask the Lord to open up Iran like a ripe tomato that needs eating now.
• "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope." (Jeremiah 29:11)
3. OBAMA: U.S. "FULLY PREPARED" FOR NORTH KOREAN THREATS
With North Korea reportedly getting ready for a long-range missile test, President Barack Obama says the U.S. is prepared for any threat the secretive and unpredictable regime might pose. "This administration -- and our military is fully prepared for any contingencies," Obama said during an interview with CBS News. The interview was taped Friday and broadcast Monday morning. "I don't want to speculate on hypotheticals," Obama said. "But I want . . . to give assurances to the American people that the t's are crossed and the i's are dotted in terms of what might happen. . . What we're not going to do is to reward belligerence and provocation in the way that's been done in the past," he said.
A senior U.S. military official told The Associated Press on Friday that a Navy ship, the USS John S. McCain, was relatively close to the North Korean vessel but had no orders to intercept it and had not requested that authority. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitive issue of ship movements.
The Navy ship, a guided missile destroyer, is named after the grandfather and father of Republican Sen. John McCain. Both were admirals. Sen. McCain, who lost the 2008 presidential election to Obama, said Sunday that the U.S. should board the Kang Nam even without North Korean permission if hard evidence shows it is carrying missiles or other cargo in violation of U.N. resolutions. "I think we should board it. It's going to contribute to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction to rogue nations that pose a direct threat to the United States," McCain said on CBS. (AP) Read more.
• Father we ask that Your mercy reign over the people of America. We erect a hedge of the Blood of Jesus over Hawaii, Alaska, and all places in between North Korea and the farthest range of their missiles. We call upon You to destroy the wicked and evil schemes of DPRK leadership.
• "But the wicked shall be cut off from the earth . . . " (Proverbs 2:22a)
4. CONGRESS QUESTIONS PRICE TAG FOR OBAMA'S HEALTH CARE PLAN
Obama Allies Worried Health Care Plan Lacks Necessary Votes
Obama's proposal to provide health care coverage for some 50 million Americans who lack it has become a contentious point for a Democratic-controlled House and Senate struggling to reach a consensus Obama desperately wants. Much of the concern came after the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimated that the plan would cost $1 trillion over 10 years but cover only about one-third of those now lacking health insurance.
Sen. Chuck Grassley, the top Republican on the Finance Committee, said officials would have to rethink their best-case scenario for providing a sweeping overhaul of the health care system at a relatively low price. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, a California Democrat, said she wasn't certain there are enough votes in the president's own party to support the proposal. "I think there's a lot of concern in the Democratic caucus," she said.
Republican Senators John McCain of Arizona, and Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, said the bill's cost was problematic. "You do the math," McCain said. "It comes up to $3 trillion. And so far, we have no proposal for having to pay for it." (AP).
• Continue to pray for WISDOM for THIS CONGRESS in all matters related to the complicated issue of health care. We recall that, after prayer and careful investigation, another health care plan
-- proposed in 1994 under Mrs. Clinton (then First Lady) -- never saw the light of day for a vote in either the House or the Senate. If God could do this then, He can do this now. Pray that any changes that are made to providing health care for all Americans would be in the center of God's will and would help -- not bankrupt -- our country.
• "He who speaks truth declares righteousness, but a false witness, deceit - but the tongue of the wise promotes health." (Proverbs 12:17a,18b)
5. UPDATE: S. 909: HATE CRIMES BILL
Many Washington insiders expected the Democrats' thought crimes bill to be attached as an amendment to an existing bill this week without notice or hearings. However, so many calls and letters have been received by Senators that today the Senate Committee on the Judiciary announced it would hold a hearing on the "Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2009' on Thursday, June 25, 2009. This is a major setback for homosexual groups who had hoped no one who opposes the thought crimes legislation would have an opportunity to speak at hearings. (Religious Freedom Coalition)
To learn more about what is included in this bill, we recommend an article by Traditional Values Coalition entitled: "Protecting 30 Bizarre "Sexual Orientations" And "Gender Identity" -- Ever-Expanding Definitions."
• Please call the offices of your senators to tell them to not vote for any legislation that promotes "Hate Crimes," whether as 'stand alone' resolution or as an amendment. If necessary, remind your senators' offices that the senators represent the electorate, not Harry Reid nor the president. Stand for the truth and God's principles. Be bold, for we cannot allow our freedom of speech to be violated in any way. There is no viable reason for the passage of this bill.
• "Therefore, to him that who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin." (James 4:17)
6. OBAMA CHANGES FEDERAL REGULATIONS ON GAY BENEFITS
This week, Obama announced that he is changing government regulations to begin extending federal benefits to the partners of gay federal employees - which will essentially treats them like married couples. According to the details, gay and lesbian partners of federal employees will be given access to health care benefits, financial benefits and relocation fees. And of course this comes after Obama declared June to be "Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month". Obama's actions come after he received letters from prominent gay-rights groups, complaining that he had not done enough for them.
Then there was the decision this week by the Washington DC Board of Elections to reject the request of a coalition of black ministers to allow voters in the nation's capital to vote on overturning the City Council's recent decision to begin giving official recognition to gay marriages performed in other states. They claimed the vote could lead to "discrimination". This comes the same week that a new CBS News poll found that support for gay marriage has dropped by nine points in the last two months to only 33%.
Clearly the majority of the American people are opposed to gay marriage. But the politicians in Washington have to hear from you. (Christian Coalition of America)
• Stand in repentance for another wicked decree from the White House. We must remember that the wicked act wickedly, because they are wicked. Walking without the light of Christ can Bring only darkened understanding in all things. Pray for the salvation of our president, for God Commands that we do so.
• "I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone - for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth." (I Tim. 2:1-4)
7. MRS. CLINTON EXTENDS GAY BENEFITS TO EMPLOYEES OF DEPT. OF STATE
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton Thursday issued an order granting diplomatic passports, medical care and U.S. government jobs overseas to homosexual partners of U.S. diplomats. In effect a homosexual "partner" of a diplomat will be given employment preference over other applicants, even if he has no experience. As a result of receiving these diplomatic passports, homosexual partners of diplomats can no longer be arrested in the vast majority of nations where homosexuality is illegal. Later that same day, Clinton fell on the way to the White House breaking her elbow. (Religious Freedom Coalition)
• Once again, the wicked produce wicked decrees . . . Because they are Wicked. Pray for the salvation of Hillary Rodham Clinton. Pray!
• "Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners-of whom I am the worst." (I Tim. 1:15)
8. OBAMA WILL WORK WITH CONGRESS TO OVERTURN DOMA
While attempting to wrestle with the recession, socialize our healthcare, reconstruct the financial industry, run our car companies and swatting flies, the president found time yesterday evening to reaffirm his commitment to fundamentally redefine the meaning of marriage. At an Oval Office ceremony, the Mr. Obama issued a presidential memorandum directing the heads of various government departments to begin providing whatever taxpayer-funded benefits they could to the partners of homosexual federal employees.
However, the president also acknowledged that he could only go so far because of the Defense of Marriage Act - a federal law that defines marriage as the union of one man and one woman, which protects the people of one state from being forced to recognize the homosexual "marriages" performed in another state. President Obama reiterated his desire to see that law repealed, saying, ". . . this Presidential Memorandum is just a start. I stand by my long-standing commitment to work with Congress to repeal the so-called Defense of Marriage Act."
I hope you understand and appreciate the significance of that statement. This president wants to repeal the one law that stands in the way of having same-sex "marriage" forced on every state in the union by unelected judges. The people of 30 states have voted to define marriage as the union of a man and woman, but Barack Obama believes that is "discriminatory," and he wants to force the people of Virginia [and all states] to affirm the values of Vermont. (Gary Bauer)
• Fervently pray that the DOMA act is never overruled and that the Lord prevents the president from maneuvering same-sex marriage into the federal law of the land. When the president was honored for his first 100 days in office, he said words to the effect that the next 73 days would bring about stunning changes. This removal of the DOMA act is possibly one of those changes. Pray for the Lord to work in our president's heart.
• "The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?" (Jeremiah 17:9)
9. SENATE REJECTS TRIBUTE TO ABORTION PROVIDERS
The U.S. House had its busiest day in the history of Congress yesterday, voting a record 53 times. To put that number in perspective, those 53 votes were almost a quarter of all the votes conducted in the House this year! Over in the Senate chamber, the members weren't nearly as productive--but that was just fine with pro-lifers, who were staring down a resolution in honor of the slain abortionist, George Tiller.
The Kansas doctor, who presided over 60,000 late-term abortions, has been the subject of congressional talks ever since his murder. Rather than praise Tiller's legacy of death, House members decided to pass a resolution condemning all violence. That didn't satisfy the most militantly pro-abortion Senators, who tried--without success--to find enough sponsors to introduce a resolution paying tribute to all abortion providers and "the services they provide."
Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) spoke on the Senate floor yesterday, lamenting the fact that her colleagues wouldn't support the idea. "I know that there are many heartfelt feelings on both sides of this issue and on both sides of the aisle," she said. "However, I was hopeful that regardless of our differences of opinion... the Senate could come together and pass a resolution that rejects the use of violence against reproductive care providers."
Interestingly enough, Shaheen says that people advised her to strip any mention of abortionists if she wanted to pass the measure. She refused, and her cause failed. What an encouragement to the pro-life community that while some Senators may vote in favor of abortion, they stand strongly against any effort to glorify it. Like us, they realize that just as violence cannot be tolerated, neither can any effort to exalt those who practice it against the unborn. (Family Research Council)
• Praise the Lord that many of our senators do exercise their consciences, either because of the godly values with which they were reared or because they listened to their constituents. Pray for Senator Shaheen to receive Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and all other senators who sponsored this resolution to honor abortionists.
• "The righteous shall be glad in the Lord, and trust in Him, And all the upright in heart shall glory." (Psalm 64:10)
10. SOTOMAYOR'S PROBLEMS ON GUN RIGHTS AND ABORTION
The more information that becomes public on Sonia Sotomayor, the more cause for concern Americans seem to have about the possibility of her sitting on the highest court in the land for a lifetime appointment. During the past few weeks, she's made the rounds in the Senate, paying courtesy calls to various senators so they can "get to know her". . . as she's made these visits, she appears to be raising some eyebrows on some pretty important issues.
When it comes to gun rights, she seems to have some hostility to the Second Amendment, or at least the way in which the vast majority of Americans interpret it. After her meeting with Senator Jim DeMint, he stated that she was "unwilling to say the Second Amendment protects a fundamental right that applies to all Americans, which raises serious questions about her view of the Bill of Rights". . .
In her meeting with Senator DeMint, he asked her about abortion - whether or not an unborn child had any rights whatsoever, to which she responded that she had never thought about it. . . If she hasn't "thought" about the rights of the unborn, what other rights hasn't she thought about?
Hopefully, the Senate Republicans will make an effort to shed light on these and other issues in the coming confirmation hearings. (Christian Coalition of America) Read more.
• Please contact the senators from your state and let them know how you think they should vote on the confirmation of Judge Sotomayor to the Supreme Court. Pray that all senators will listen to their constituents' voices and will yield to the Constitution in their vote of confirmation. Praise the Lord for Sen. DeMint and other like-minded senators regardless of their political affiliation.
• ". . .the Lord . . . may show you mercy, have compassion on you, and multiply you . . . because you have listened to the voice of the Lord your God, to keep all His commandments which I command you today to do what is right in the eyes of the Lord you God." (Deuteronomy 13:17a, 18)
11. UPDATE: OBAMA FIRES HIS AMERICORPS INSPECTOR GENERAL
Every year, the federal government disperses hundreds and hundreds of billions of dollars - your tax dollars - to various projects and programs. In order to ensure that your money is not wasted, each department has an office of independent auditors known as inspectors general or IGs. Last year, Congress passed a law designed to strengthen their independence from political pressure. Then Senator Obama was one of the co-sponsors of that legislation. But now it appears as though President Obama has run afoul of that very law and a scandal is brewing that has yet to be noticed by the "mainstream media."
In a move denounced by both Republicans and Democrats as a violation of the new protections for IGs, President Obama recently fired Americorps IG Gerald Walpin. Walpin's work was getting very close to some very big Obama supporters and he recently received a call from the White House telling him he had one hour to resign or be fired. Walpin refused to go and was sacked. The White House responded to the controversy with wild accusations suggesting Mr. Walpin suffered from dementia. Today there is breaking news that Walpin isn't the only IG to be fired. But there's another story here too.
When Bush fired eight political appointees it was front page news, and, believe it or not, Democrats in Congress are still investigating that. But when Obama fires not one, but now three inspectors general, just as his administration is getting ready to spend billions of stimulus dollars even faster, Democrats and the media are silent. As one commentator observed, "WHERE ARE THE WATCHDOGS of the establishment media? Oh, that's right: They are no longer watchdogs but lapdogs, and particularly slobbering ones at that. . ." (Gary Bauer)
• Several commentators have recently said that journalism is dead. Pray for its resurrection in the mainstream media. Christian journalists must join the media and then be protected by our prayers so that they are neither silenced nor fired from reporting the truth. Pray that wicked minds cannot devise strategies against those who are assigned to be watchmen on the walls of our government. Pray for honesty to return to the White House.
• "But each one is tempted when he is drawn away and enticed by his own desires. Then when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death." (James 1: 14,15)
12. U.N. TREATY THREATENS LOSS OF PARENTAL RIGHTS
This is not just about the right to homeschool. This is much more insidious. This is the beginning of the loss of our parental rights to train our children as we see morally fit. In essence, this is about handing our sovereign rights to raise our children over to the United Nations: Currently, family and education laws are state-based; however, ratification of the UNCRC would transfer the jurisdiction for making family and education law to the U.S. Congress. Congress would, in turn, be obligated to follow the UN mandates contained in the CRC. "
This is dangerous legislation that would allow the United Nations to dictate how we can raise our children. I implore that everyone contact your congressmen and ask them to support the Parental Rights Amendment that would offer protection of our freedoms to parent. Senate Joint Resolution 16, was introduced by Senator Jim DeMint of South Carolina in May. Currently, Senator DeMint is the only sponsor. There are 93 sponsors for the House version of the Parental Rights Amendment, to date. However, only one senator is currently sponsoring the senate version. So, now is the time to contact your senators and urge them to sign on as cosponsors to S.J.Res. 16, the Parental Rights Amendment, in the U.S. Senate. Also, please contact your representatives in the House and insure that they will support this crucial amendment.
This may be one of the most devastating pieces of legislation ever that could affect Christians. If UNCRC is ratified by our Congress, it would lead to the eventual loss of our rights to Biblically train up our children and would destroy even further the moral fabric of our country. Please pass this on to all your email contacts and take a stance. If we don't, we as parents will be under the dictates of the liberal United Nations.
HSLDA has been warning that the UNCRC could bring an end to homeschool freedom in the U.S., if the treaty was ever ratified by the U.S. Senate because Article VI of the U.S. Constitution says that treaties become the supreme law of the land. For the UNCRC to be ratified it must gain a two-thirds vote in the U.S. Senate. The only answer at this point would be to add a Parental Rights Amendment (PRA) to the Constitution.
To find out more about the Parental Rights Amendment, visit www.parentalrights.org.
• Pray that more sponsors in the Senate join Sen. DeMint in backing this amendment. Americans are not willing to give parental rights to Congress or to a UN treaty. Please pass this information to your email list, for the UNCRC is another wicked device of the devil to keep people out of heaven, especially your children. Check with your representatives also, for 93 representatives is not enough votes for a resolution. There are 435 representatives in the House.
• "Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it." (Proverbs 22:6)
13. ISRAELI GOVERNMENT FACES CHALLENGES AFTER NETANYAHU'S SPEECH
(From: Intercessors for Israel) In the wake of an amazing speech by Netanyahu, the government is faced with many challenges. Members of the far right part of the coalition are rising up against Netanyahu. The PA immediately rejected the WHOLE speech showing the world where they really stand. The international community was quick to support the speech, but the US State Department has continued its demand to freeze all settlement activity.
We prayed:
• Netanyahu and his advisors would have wisdom on how to deal with the internal dissent in the coalition.
• That gains made through the speech would not be undercut by the demands to cease settlement activity.
• May the government unite under Netanyahu's leadership the way the Israeli people seem to have in the last week.
• Thank you Lord that he began his speech with the prophets and emphasized that Israel's right to this Land is not simply a result of the Holocaust. Israel's right to the Land extends through history according to the promises of God.
• Help the people and the government to not give into fear or intimidation that will come in the wake of the speech.
• Give Netanyahu the wisdom of Solomon to discern truth and to be able to act with Godly Justice.
• May his counselors be sent from You Lord. May Netanyahu listen to good counsel and nothing that is meant to manipulate or control.
• "Give the king Your judgments, O God, and Your righteousness to the king's Son. He will judge Your people with righteousness, and Your poor with justice. The mountains will bring peace to the people, and the little hills, by righteousness. He will bring justice to the poor of the people; He will save the children of the needy, and will break in pieces the oppressor." (Psalm 72:1-4)
14. GAY PARADE IN JERUSALEM ON JUNE 25TH
(From: Intercessors for Israel) Not many people are aware that a Gay Pride Parade is scheduled for June 25th in Jerusalem. This parade got massive amounts of media coverage last year and was widely protested. This year, it has almost slipped under the radar. In the wake of the riots by the Orthodox community last week over the opening on a parking lot on Shabbat, it is feared that more violence is coming this week. For this parade to happen in the city which God has chosen to put His name it is like giving a slap in His face.
We prayed:
• May this parade be cancelled which rises up to insult the God of Israel and His reputation.
• Let the mayor Nir Barket and the police chief be given the wisdom to know how to act.
• That there would be know violence or rioting by the Orthodox Jews.
• May the Lord turn back this perverse spirit that seeks to invade His city.
• "Hear this, O house of Jacob, who are called by the name of Israel, and have come forth from the wellsprings of Judah; Who swear by the name of the LORD, And make mention of the God of Israel, but not in truth or in righteousness; For they call themselves after the holy city, And lean on the God of Israel; The LORD of hosts is His name." (Isaiah 48:1-2)
This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
THE LORD WHO HEALS YOU (Adoni Rofehkha)
He said, "If you listen carefully to the voice of the LORD your God and do what is right in his eyes, if you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the LORD, who heals you." (Exodus 15:26)
Thank You, Lord, that when I have nowhere to turn for help for the sinful things that still combat my soul, You are there. Father, temptations assail me daily, yet You are the LORD who heals me. Thank you for healing me from the things of the past and from things hidden now. 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)