Friday, July 31, 2009

A Declaration of Repentance - July 31, 2009

In This Issue
• A Declaration of Repentance

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


A Declaration of Repentance

"Repent, for the Kingdom of God is at hand." (Matthew 3:2)

A Declaration of Repentance

We gather here today as citizens of the United States of America and as citizens of God's Kingdom. Our American citizenship being conferred to us by mutual place of birth and residence in God's providence; our Heavenly citizenship being purchased for us by the finished work of Jesus' death and resurrection on the cross in which we corporately trust. We recognize that as members of both this earthly and heavenly kingdom, it is our sacred duty and trust to bridge the gap between our nation and the Almighty. It has fallen to us, and to our watch, to bear witness of His righteous judgments in the face of impending calamity. We now endeavor to sound the trumpet of a watchman thus commissioned by God and stationed upon the ramparts of our great nation. (Ezekiel 33:1-7)

The Sin of Abortion: With intense sorrow we duly recognize that our nation has chosen the idol of convenience and self indulgence over the precious gift of life. The blood of each child, who although created in the image of God was thought a burden and relegated to a place of refuse, indeed each one of these blood cries out from the ground for judgment. Rather than defending the defenseless we have led them to slaughter. In addition, as the Body of Christ, we repent for allowing the justification of such abominable acts to proceed from our pulpits and declare that there can be no reconciliation between the practice of abortion and the preaching of Your Kingdom! Gen. 4:10 - Psalm 139:13-14

Lord we are guilty; we beseech You to have mercy!

The Sins of Homosexuality and Sexual Immorality: With a heavy heart we acknowledge that our nation has opened its arms to embrace practices which You abhor, oh Lord. We admit that in our vain imaginings we Your creation, have sought to unseat You Our Creator, and determine for ourselves proper relations within Your divine order. We confess that rather than being zealous for Your Name and Your Laws oh God, we have instead become complacent and allowed unrighteous men and women to chart our path towards cultural acceptance of these obscene deviations. Further, as the Body of Christ we repent for calling "good" what You have called "evil." We determine from this point forward not to give utterance to any justification of practices that You have deemed unjustifiable. For the sins of homosexuality, adultery, fornication, pornography and promiscuity we do now repent on behalf of ourselves and our nation. 1st Cor 6:9 - 1st Tim. 1-10 - Lev. 20:13 - Romans 13:13 - 1st Thess. 4:3

Lord we are guilty; we beseech You to have mercy!

The Sin of Hypocrisy: With great shame do we confess our profound tendency to allow our speech and our actions to suffer violence one against the other. For allowing ourselves to be called by Your Name while casually denying the responsibility of that calling, we repent. On behalf of the Body of Christ we repent for the sins of our leadership: for those who preach purity yet refuse to abstain from immorality; for those who selfishly profit from the offerings of their flock, and for those who fail to assume their responsibility to safeguard the ones whom You have set in their care. Above all we repent for allowing Your Name O God to be defamed by those who neither know you nor your Son, on account of our actions. Matt. 6:1-5 - Matt. 23:28 - Rom. 12:9 - 1. Peter 2:1

Lord we are guilty; we beseech You to have mercy!

The Sin of Arrogance and Indifference towards the Poor: With humiliation do we admit that we have failed to embody the purest form of religion - to minister to orphans and widows in their distress. Our appetite for personal convenience has become louder than the innate pang we feel when looking upon a fellow man in the hour of his great need. We have preferred those of ample means while trampling those with meager. In doing so we practically deny the existence of Our Just Creator supposing that we will not be held to account for the compassion we have shown to all of Your creatures. For the sin of neglecting the poor, of selfishly hoarding the gifts that You freely give, and of arrogance against those who have been made stewards over less, we repent. Ex. 22:5 - Lev 25:35 - Deut 15:7 - Amos 4:1-2 - Matt 19:21 - James 2:1-9 - James 1:27

Lord we are guilty; we beseech You to have mercy!

The Sin of Arrogance and Indifference towards Israel: With chagrin do we attest that the policies of our nation have been in stark contradiction to your scriptural principals regarding your posterity, Israel. Our elected officials mediating on our behalf have continuously attempted to coerce Israel into giving their land into the hands of those who openly declare themselves their enemies. We recognize that it is You O Lord who has determined in your Divine Word the boundaries of this ancient and re-born nation. In light of this, neither we nor our government have the authority to demand that Israel give away what you have gifted. In this we have acted presumptuously.
In addition we have remained silent in the face of the deafening cries for the destruction of the Jewish people and their nation which echo from city squares and government halls across the earth. As the Body of Christ we have sinned against Your covenant people as well. By both denying that the covenant made with Israel is eternal and by declaring that the Jewish people need not salvation, we have gravely erred.

We have also seen as outcasts those whom are both of Jewish ancestry and believers in our common Messiah, Jesus. The Church shortly after its inception, throughout its history, and even through the reformation, has given itself over to a spirit of anti-Semitism. Willfully have we instituted and enforced the schism between Jewish and Gentile believers. Forcefully has the Church sought to separate itself from the Jewish believers who duly served as a light to the nations, bringing them the Word of God and the revelation of the Gospel. Further, many of the worst atrocities committed against the Jewish people were encouraged, accepted, perpetrated or ignored by Christians. In these things we have sinned against You O God, who are in fact a keeper of all Thy covenants. Joel 3:1-3 - Gen. 12:3 - Zech 2:8 - Rom. 11 - Eph 2 - John 17 - Gen 15:8 - Num. 34: 2-15

Lord we are guilty; we beseech You to have mercy!

On this day of July 31st, 2009 we have gathered to confess with our mouths the sins of our nation. As You O Lord are the Author and Judge of heavenly Law, it is only Thee who has the right to choose between judgment and mercy. On behalf of our nation, we ask You Lord to consider mercy.

Folsom Field; Boulder, Colorado


2 Chronicles 7:14-16 -- "If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. Now My eyes will be open and My ears attentive to prayer made in this place. For now I have chosen and sanctified this house, that My name may be there forever; and My eyes and My heart will be there perpetually."

Thursday, July 30, 2009

CHPP Daily Brief - July 30, 2009

In This Issue
• The Daily Brief
• The Middle East in Focus
• EMERGENCY ALERT: HEALTH CARE BILL
• Rallying for Family Health
• Americans Reject Socialism
• THIS JUST IN
• THIS JUST IN #2
• The Good News Corner
• Quote of the Day

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


The Daily Brief - Thursday, July 30, 2009

"Repent, for the Kingdom of God is at hand." (Matthew 3:2)

PLEASE NOTE:

Tomorrow is the National Day of Repentance, across our land. In honor of this time, we will NOT PUBLISH the Daily Brief on Friday, July 31st, choosing instead to draw aside and to seek our Lord in quiet prayer.

Thank you.

The Daily Brief

1. House Seems To Be Set on Pork-Padded Defense Bill - Washington Post

The Democratic-controlled House is poised to give the Pentagon dozens of new ships, planes, helicopters and armored vehicles that Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates says the military does not need to fund next year, acting in many cases in response to defense industry pressures and campaign contributions under an approach he has decried as "business as usual" and vowed to help end.

• Lord, we pray that the Defense Bill will be properly administered, and any pork-laced portions be mitigated by wisdom. May You protect our military from lacking in any area, while keeping a balance of funds for appropriate items that are needed.

"It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man." (Psalm 118:8)

2. US missile defense funding may increase - Jerusalem Post

The US House of Representatives is expected to overwhelmingly approve a defense spending bill Thursday that increases next year's funding of Israeli missile defense programs to $202 million dollars.

• Father, we thank you for this provision in the defense bill and ask that You preserve this portion. We pray that in the politics of all that is before the Congress, Your people Israel will be protected. We thank You for helping them understand the necessity of Israel, not only for the sake of America, but as Your Chosen people.

"Cursed be everyone who curses you, and blessed be those who bless you." (Genesis 27:29c)

3. A) Lawmakers Cut Health Bills' Price Tag - Washington Post

Key lawmakers on Wednesday moved to cut roughly $100 billion from the cost of health-care reform proposals as they sought to break weeks of gridlock on President Obama's signature legislative initiative before Congress departs for a month-long recess.

B) Support Slips for Obama's Health Plan, With Recess on Horizon - Fox News

The longer the Democrats' health care plan sits on the table, the less the American people seem to like it, several recent polls suggest.

A Wall Street Journal/NBC News poll conducted over the weekend found that more people think President Obama's health care proposal is a bad idea than a good one.

C) House Republicans unveil health care plan - AP

House Republicans on Wednesday unveiled a $700 billion health care plan that would offer tax credits to help people buy insurance, yet unlike Democratic proposals, wouldn't require either individuals or employers to get coverage.

• Lord, as this healthcare bill continues to be filled with hidden agendas and plans of the enemy, we ask that You make full disclosure to the American people. We thank You that many are beginning to see the dangers and are backing off from supporting the bill. We pray that You would guard the excellent health care available in America, and protect us from socializing and destroying the entire system.

"Run ye to and fro through the streets of Jerusalem, and see now, and know, and seek in the broad places thereof, if ye can find a man, if there be any that executeth judgment, that seeketh the truth, and I will pardon it." (Jeremiah 5:1)

4. Conyers to Introduce Constitutional Amendment Making Health Care a 'Right' - CNS News

During his speech at a recent National Press Club luncheon, House Judiciary Chairman John Conyers (D-Mich.) said he is introducing a constitutional amendment that would establish health care as "a right" for all Americans.

• Lord, as high and lofty as this may sound to some, it is really a call for entitlement, or socialization for all. We ask that Mr. Conyer's amendment fall to the ground and be rejected by the legislature, so that personal liberty with responsibility will be restored as the baseline of our rights .

"The beginning of the words of his mouth is foolishness: and the end of his talk is mischievous madness." (Eccl: 10:13)

5. Schwarzenegger Vetoes $656 Million in Welfare, Signs California's $85 Billion Budget - NewsMax

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed a revised $85 billion budget Tuesday that he said contains "the good, the bad and the ugly," including additional cuts to child welfare programs, health care for the poor and AIDS prevention efforts.

• Father, we again pray wisdom for Governor Schwarzenegger and the legislature of California, that they would respond with wisdom to their crisis. We ask, that in these cuts, foolish use of resources would be removed, yet compassion with wisdom would remain.

"My mouth shall speak of wisdom; and the meditation of my heart shall be of understanding." (Psalm 49:3)

6. US terror arrests spur warning to police - Jerusalem Post

Anti-terrorism officials are increasingly concerned about American-bred extremists who travel abroad for terror training and then return home, sometimes quietly recruiting followers over the years.

• Lord, we bind the lies and demonic forces that are turning any American citizens into terrorists. We thank You for revelation and cleansing in our nation. We take authority over all plans of the enemy in the Name of Jesus and speak truth and the conviction of the Holy Spirit into every situation. We loose Your Spirit to move in and among Americans of every background to change hearts and minds.

"And when He is come, He will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment." (John 16:8)

7. Obama's 'Beer Summit' Effort to End Racial Dispute - Fox News

Can three guys sit down over a beer and close the nation's racial divide? Perhaps, but when President Obama hosts Harvard buddy Henry Gates and Cambridge cop James Crowley, they all might want to ask - what's on tap?

• We commend the president's desire to move towards healing the racial divide in our nation. Please pray that this "small step" in the right direction would be the beginning of a process of bringing racial reconciliation over time. Ultimately, it is not a beer that can finally resolve this thorny issue; instead, this raw wound can only be resolved by the work of the Cross in all of our lives.

"For he himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by abolishing in his flesh the law with its commandments and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new man out of the two, thus making peace, and in this one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit." (Eph. 2:14-18)

The Middle East in Focus

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

Beautiful in elevation, the joy of the whole earth, is Mont Zion in the far north, the city of the great King. (Psalm 48:2)

1. Obama begins pressuring Arab leaders on deal with Israel - Ha'aretz

Freezing the expansion of Jewish settlements in the West Bank was once seen as a unilateral Israeli obligation. But the Obama administration is now treating this as part of a package that will require concessions from Arab states as well.

2. Netanyahu okays swine flu vaccine purchase - Jerusalem Post

There is as yet no vaccine that protects against H1N1 "swine flu" virus, and Deputy Health Minister Ya'acov Litzman believes there won't be one available anywhere before the fall-winter regular flu season is under way. But Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, who met with Litzman on Wednesday evening, said he had "decided to order vaccines for all Israeli citizens."

3. UN, aid groups: Let building supplies into Gaza - Jerusalem Post

UN agencies and two dozen international aid groups urged Israel on Tuesday to lift its blockade of Gaza or at least allow in construction materials to repair war-damaged schools.

EMERGENCY ALERT: HEALTH CARE BILL

[Please note: this article is a REPRINT from Monday's OCAP, Number 24a, Issue #1. Due to the URGENCY of this matter, we wanted to be sure that ALL OF YOU have read and taken note of the links below. Thank youl]

Shock: Inside the Healthcare Bill (H.R. 3200) - New York Times; Economic Policy Journal
It pays to take a look at what is actually in the healthcare bill. Peter Fleckstein is reading it and has been posting on Twitter his findings.

His research has since been confirmed by many others, including Matt Staver of Liberty Counsel.

UNFORTUNATELY, THE LIST OF CONCERNS ABOUT THIS BILL IS ENTIRELY TOO LONG FOR US TO PRINT HERE. WE URGE ALL OF OUR READERS TO READ AND STUDY THIS LIST FOR YOURSELVES, BY GOING HERE.

Each of these concerns are cited BY PAGE NUMBER in this mammoth bill, which is now 1,017 pages long!

• Please pass this information on to all who are in your own networks of prayer. As of today, the news on the Hill is that final action on this bill, in both the House and the Senate, WILL BE DELAYED until September. Praise God! Pray that MANY VOICES will be raised in concern for the impact that Obamacare will have upon every American citizen, and that, in the end, the LORD GOD JEHOVAH will BLOCK this bill from passing. Praise God!

"Then it came about that when the ark set out that Moses said, 'Rise up, O Lord! And let Your enemies be scattered! And let those who hate You flee before You!'" (Numbers 10:35)

Rallying for Family Health

Just how concerned are Americans about the President's health care "reform"? Well, if last night's webcast is any indication, this issue has completely exploded. Thanks to all of you who tuned in, FRC Action had over 76,000 streams for Tuesday night's program, which featured a great mix of Hill insiders and health care experts. The demand for the webcast completely exceeded our expectations, so I apologize to those of you who experienced technical difficulties. Our servers were so overwhelmed that there was sometimes a delay for people trying to access the event. If you missed the program or if you didn't catch the whole stream, it's available in its entirety at www.frcaction.org/takeover.

Rest assured that we are working out the kinks so that our system can accommodate tens of thousands of viewers in the future. In the meantime, we're grateful to everyone who participated and appreciate your interest. The FRC team looks forward to keeping your family updated on this and other issues with more events like this one. You can also go to FRC Action's site and view our TV ad that was shown for the first time last night. (Family Research Council)

Americans Reject Socialism

As Americans Reject Socialism, Attorney General Says Citizens Are More Radicalized

At the same time new poll numbers are showing that the man who occupies the Oval Office is at his lowest approval ratings ever, the Attorney General is saying that he is deeply troubled over the rising radicalism of Americans. Not clear whether he was speaking entirely of the threat of Islamic terrorists or those who are pro-life, Christians as reported in the Administration's recent terrorist assessment, Attorney General Eric Holder told ABC News, "The constant scream of threats, the kind you have to be aware about, the whole notion of radicalization is something that didn't loom as large a few months ago . . . as it does now."

Obama has suffered a major setback. His approval numbers have fallen about 16 points since May. He is now saying that there may not be a vote on his socialized healthcare scheme until October. That this vote is pushed back means that Americans are pushing back hard on spending another trillion dollars of taxpayer money for socialized medicine. When things are going bad for politicians, they often hope for a diversion or they create one in order to get the public's attention. Call me cynical, but the timing of Eric Holder's ABC News remarks about the radicalization of America is not a random act. This Administration has downplayed all along the threat of Islamic terrorism to this nation.

Holder said that "the whole notion of radicalization is something that didn't loom as large a few months ago." It is no coincidence that a few months ago, Obama's approval ratings were at the top of the charts and his political clout looked unstoppable. Now that Americans are pushing back from radical healthcare reform, radical socialization and government takeover of major free market industries, it appears that the White House wants to point to American citizens as those who are becoming radicalized. Could it be the strategy of the Administration to paint as radical anyone who does not agree with the radical government agenda being thrust upon them?

It is no coincidence that Obama's popularity is running amuck in conjunction with the radical social and economic agenda he and Congress are implementing. It also may be no coincidence that the Attorney General is signaling to the news media that Americans are becoming radicalized during the same time White House approval ratings are dropping and its agenda is being delayed. This is also a sign that our efforts to educate people are reaching critical mass. 2 Timothy 4:2 says, "Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine." Now is the time to relate the day's events to the word of God to all you know.

Bill Wilson
Word of Life Ministry
www.dailyjot.com


THIS JUST IN


PRAYERSURGENOW HOSTS NATIONWIDE CALL TOMORROW MORNING

FOCUS: THE NATIONAL DAY OF REPENTANCE

All intercessors from Capitol Hill Prayer Partners are welcome to join this call.
FRIDAY MORNING, 7/31
7-9am Pacific, 8-10am Mountain,
9-11am Central, 10-12pm Eastern

Special Prayer Focus
Intercession for Days of Repentance & Promise Keepers
7/31 & 8/1
Boulder, CO
Conference Call & Access Numbers
1-712-432-9998 & 526338#
Alternate: 1-712-451-6000 & 274821#
(Please use *6 to MUTE & UNMUTE)


THIS JUST IN #2

Questions For Your Congressmen
(Source: Gary Bauer, Campaign for Working Families, Special Alert)

It's been a very busy time here in Washington. Fighting ObamaCare has dominated our work in recent days. In fact, we've published more than a dozen items on ObamaCare in this daily report in the past two weeks. We were able to stop the march of Big Government socialism for a while. But with news that the "moderate" Blue Dog Democrats have cut a deal with liberal House leaders, ObamaCare is on the move once again. The battlefield now shifts from Capitol Hill to each congressional district, and we're calling in reinforcements - YOU!

Yesterday, President Obama conceded that there probably won't be a vote on healthcare reform until "the end of September or the middle of October." That means you have August to attend town hall meetings with your representative and senators, stop by their congressional offices, write letters to the editor and educate your friends and family members about the dangers of ObamaCare. To help you in that effort, we've produced a short list of key concerns and questions, which are copied below. You can also find them posted online here . Please share this report with like-minded folks and those who may be undecided and willing to listen. Thank you for everything you do to defend our shared values in your community!

[A note from CHPP. We will print this article, in its entirety, on Saturday. In the meantime, here are the topics suggested. If you are interested in receiving Mr. Bauer's daily report by e-mail.]

Topics for your member of Congress and Senators

all addressing issues in H.R. 3200 -- the Health Care Plan

1. ABORTION
2. EUTHANASIA
3. COST
4. RATIONING CARE
5. MORE BURDENS ON SMALL BUSINESSES
6. QUALITY CARE
7. THE PEOPLE ARE BEING IGNORED
8. LOSS OF FREEDOM
9. RACIAL PREFERENCES
10. PRE-EXISTING CONDITIONS

The Good News Corner

UPDATE: EMERGENCY APPEAL!

Dear Friends,


"Let every thing that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the LORD!" (Psalm 150:6)

On Tuesday evening, July 14th, we issued an emergency appeal for help for this work, as our funds had become dangerously low. We want to thank ALL OF YOU for hearing, and for responding, to our plea for help. In only two weeks, you have opened your wallets and you have POURED INTO THIS WORK in GREAT PORTION, and in short time, too!

So, TODAY WE ARE STANDING IN VICTORY! May GOD be praised!!

I will be honest with you, though . . . I have sensed the enemy telling me to NOT report this good news to you, for "fear" that the saints will then cease giving into this work.

Well . . . get thee behind me, Satan!

We trust GOD to meet all of our needs, according to His riches in Glory, through Christ Jesus. Amen!

Although we are out of immediate danger, our needs for support will continue in the months ahead. And, bless God, the MATCHING GRANT is still in place through August 31st, so any offering given through the end of next month will continue to be "doubled" by the grace of God!

So, we close this update with a HUGE THANK YOU to those who have been able to help sustain us, and with a gentle reminder to all that, yes, our Summer Campaign remains in effect.
In these times of economic challenge, may God be glorified through the giving of His saints! Praise be to His Holy Name!!

Amen and amen,
Sara Ballenger and the team at Capitol Hill Prayer Partners

P.S. A special "thank you" also goes to those many of you who have taken the time to write a note of appreciation for our work. Your words are the "oil" that comforts and encourages us to keep on plowing here. . . one day at a time.

Every offering WILL be acknowledged with a return response, by the end of the summer!

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

CHPP Daily Brief - July 29, 2009

In This Issue
• The Daily Brief
• The Middle East in Focus
• Swine Flu Update: Military May Be Involved
• Jihad Watch
• Birth Certificate News
• The Good News Corner

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


The Daily Brief - Wednesday, July 29, 2009

"Repent, for the Kingdom of God is at hand." (Matthew 3:2)

The Daily Brief

1. Senate Committee Endorses Soto mayor - Worthy News

A Senate committee endorsed Supreme Court nominee Sonia Sotomayor on Tuesday in a vote that splintered nearly along party lines, signaling that Republicans will not hesitate to oppose the first Hispanic nominee to the nation's highest court when the full Senate decides whether to confirm her next week.

Only one Republican, Lindsey O. Graham of South Carolina, joined the Senate Judiciary Committee's dozen Democrats in supporting Sotomayor. The six GOP senators who stood against her included two from states with heavy Hispanic populations and two veteran senators who had never before voted against a Supreme Court nominee.

• Pray and ask that the people be reminded this is not about ethnicity, this is about the law in the United States of America, and appointing someone to the Supreme Court to uphold it. In intercession, ask for one appointed by God to take this high place of office. Ask, that our prayer for godly wisdom and impeccable integrity in our judicial system will be heard.

The integrity of the upright will guide them, But the perversity of the unfaithful will destroy them. (Proverbs 11:3)

2. Banks Asked to Ramp Up Loan Help - Washington Post

Senior administration officials pressed executives from the nation's largest banks Tuesday to speed help to distressed borrowers after a frustrating start to the government's foreclosure-prevention effort and set a goal of more than doubling the number of homeowners receiving aid by November.

After a series of meetings with top banking executives, Treasury Department officials said they want lenders to modify 500,0000 mortgages by Nov. 1. Since the program, known as Making Home Affordable, began in March, it has recorded about 200,000 loan modifications.

• Please pray, as it is so difficult to put solutions into the hands of those creating the problems, that the insatiable fingers of greed and take-over will be pried off of the American people. As this type of intervention has only cost us greatly with little long term benefit, intercede for the Father's help in our recovery from the false god of government in our country. Ask, that we once again rely on Him alone; on His provision and blessings to include our skills and talents, His gifts, to sustain us.

And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work. (II Corinthians 9:8)

3. General: Iran working to influence Iraq vote - ASSOCIATED PRESS

The top U.S. commander in Iraq said Tuesday, that Iran still is training and equipping Iraqi insurgents but is shifting its focus to influence the upcoming Iraqi elections and exerting "soft power" over its majority-Shiite neighbor.

• Ask the Father to protect the Iraqi people and increase their ability to rise up and defend themselves. Pray for an intense determination, not only to remain free from tyranny and any influence that would steer them back toward a dictatorial system, but also hold fast to their right to true liberty. Intercede that every obstacle and hindrance be removed and dealt with and that the US will remain an secure ally to the country of Iraq.

• The Creator of the ends of the earth, neither faints nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the weak, And to those who have no might He increases strength. (Isaiah 40:28a-29)

4. Netanyahu: Palestinians will eventually topple Hamas - Ynet News

"One day, the Palestinians will topple Hamas' rule in Gaza," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Tuesday. "If the Palestinians could, they would overthrow Hamas, and believe me, one day they will," he said, speaking at the National Security Academy's graduation ceremony. The prime minister also predicted that the end of radical Islam was near. . . Netanyahu reiterated the importance of supporting the Palestinian economy, which he claimed will determine the Palestinians' future. "Economic development promotes peace. There is a struggle here and in other parts of the world against the dark, radical forces - the last thing these forces want to see is progress.

• Intercede that the Lord be present in the Middle East with His plan to disrupt any radical agents who plan to use nuclear force. Ask for a release of economic progress into nations who will utilize this progress for good and not for evil. Please pray that as our Father is bent toward mankind experiencing all of His blessings, that men like PM Netanyahu will continue to envision, speak, and proclaim the same.

Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom; I am understanding, I have strength. By me kings reign, And rulers decree justice. (Proverbs 8:14-15)

5. 'Russia, Iran to hold naval maneuver' -The Jerusalem Post

For the first time, Russia and Iran will hold a joint naval maneuver in the Caspian Sea, The Iranian Mehr News Agency reported Wednesday. An Iranian frigate in the Persian Gulf. According to the report, the maneuver will include 30 Russian and Iranian ships, as well as helicopters.

• Intercede for the nation of Israel, now more than ever, to be empowered to protect herself. Ask that no two countries be allowed to engage in military maneuvers to the detriment of God's people. Please pray that individual nations will realize the dangers of aligning themselves with destructive and rebellious countries. Ask that they be moved to count the cost, as the stakes are high in plotting against the "Apple of God's Eye".

Let Israel now say- "If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, When men rose up against us, Then they would have swallowed us alive, When their wrath was kindled against us". (Psalm 124:1a-3)

The Middle East in Focus

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

Beautiful in elevation, the joy of the whole earth, is Mont Zion in the far north, the city of the great King. (Psalm 48:2)

1. 'Occupation will destroy Third Temple' - Ynet News

"The occupation will lead to the destruction of the Third Temple" - a Peace Now poster to be hung all over Jerusalem on Wednesday, the eve of Tisha B'Av, reads.

2. IDF to give better warnings before attacks - Ynet News

The defense establishment has decided to give more accurate details in warnings issued to Palestinians before aerial strikes, in order to help residents of the area to be hit that are not involved in terror activity flee.

3. Jerusalem assesses: Gestures from the Arab World within a month - Jerusalem Post

US Middle East envoy George Mitchell left his Israeli interlocutors with the impression Tuesday that he would be able to extract some normalization gestures towards Israel from the Arab world within a month.

Swine Flu Update: Military May Be Involved

Military planning for possible H1N1 outbreak

The U.S. military wants to establish regional teams of military personnel to assist civilian authorities in the event of a significant outbreak of the H1N1 virus this fall, according to Defense Department officials. The proposal is awaiting final approval from Defense Secretary Robert Gates. The officials would not be identified because the proposal from U.S. Northern Command's Gen. Victor Renuart has not been approved by the secretary.

The plan calls for military task forces to work in conjunction with the Federal Emergency Management Agency. There is no final decision on how the military effort would be manned, but one source said it would likely include personnel from all branches of the military. It has yet to be determined how many troops would be needed and whether they would come from the active duty or the National Guard and Reserve forces.

Civilian authorities would lead any relief efforts in the event of a major outbreak, the official said. The military, as they would for a natural disaster or other significant emergency situation, could provide support and fulfill any tasks that civilian authorities could not, such as air transport or testing of large numbers of viral samples from infected patients. As a first step, Gates is being asked to sign a so-called "execution order" that would authorize the military to begin to conduct the detailed planning to execute the proposed plan. (CNN)

• Please pray for the Defense Department and those higher up, that the truth will come to the forefront of how our government body plans to deal with the issue of H1N1. Ask that the life and health of the individual be served first, and not a crisis creating plot, as officials are refusing to be named, but would work with FEMA in this maneuver. Pray for the wisdom of God to show up in the form of individuals who will wrestle with this until we get it right, being unwilling to risk the lives and futures of the American people.

• Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me." (Psalm 50:15)

Jihad Watch

The Obama Administration, devoting its energy to browbeating Israel, continues to downplay the threat from Islamofascism. Meanwhile, here's a brief review of today's headlines from the "front lines."

• Yesterday in Falls Church, Virginia, just 8 miles from the White House, Ahmed Omar Abu Ali was sentenced to life in prison for his role in an Al-Qaeda conspiracy to kill President Bush. Ali was valedictorian of the Islamic Saudi Academy in nearby Alexandria, Virginia. The Islamic Saudi Academy has been regularly criticized for exposing students to radical textbooks. As the convicted terrorist left the courtroom, he was cheered by a large crowd of supporters. I hope the FBI was taking photos.

• In North Carolina, seven Muslim men were charged with being part of a jihadist cell that planned a series of attacks abroad. Several of them are Muslim converts, including Daniel Patrick Boyd, who traveled to Israel in 2007 hoping to pull off attacks there. Boyd lived in a lakeside home in a rural area near Raleigh, where he and his family ran a dry-wall business while learning to wage war for Allah at night.

Exterminators will tell you that if you see a roach in your home it almost always means you have hundreds more breeding in the dark places between the walls. How many more jihadists do we have living among us? How many Saudi-funded schools and mosques are teaching hatred right under our nose? The Obama Justice Department might want to spend fewer dollars trying to put former Bush officials in jail and more dollars protecting the homeland. (Gary Bauer; End-of-Day; July 28, 2009)

Birth Certificate News

The Missing Birth Certificate Takes Center Stage At The White House

The man who occupies the Oval Office is once again under fire for not making public his birth certificate. In response to the a question at the White House Monday, press secretary Robert Gibbs once again emphatically defended that Obama is the Constitutionally legal president of the United States. He said, "If I had some DNA, it wouldn't assuage those that don't believe he was born here. But I have news for them and for all of us: The President was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, the 50th sate of the greatest country on the face of the earth. He's a citizen." There was laughter in the room and and indignation on the part of Gibbs.

Gibbs responded to the question: Is there anything you can say that will make the birthers go away? According to the White House transcript, there was laughter among the reporters. Then Gibb's response: "...let's understand this--and I hate to indulge in such an august setting as the White House--and I mean this in seriousness--the White House briefing room discussing the made-up, fictional nonsense of whether or not the President was born in this country. A year and a half ago I asked that the birth certificate be put on the internet because lord knows, you got a birth certificate and you put it on the internet, what else could be the story?"

For me, a journalist, a former award winning investigative reporter, and an American citizen, the story is that OOO has spent millions of dollars in lawyer's fees to seal from the public not only his college records, but his birth certificate. The story Mr. Gibbs is that you, the president and the White House have refused to release the original certificate of live birth from Hawaii. There has been no, and I mean this sincerely to all my Democratic friends, there has been no public legal verification that this man who the people elected president actually meets the Constitutional requirement that he be a natural born citizen to be eligible to hold the office he now occupies.

It is a simple matter. Unseal the records, prove your point beyond a reasonable doubt. If you don't unseal the records, those of us who hold the Constitution dear, will never believe you are qualified, but we will always believe you are hiding something. If there was not a question of where the birth took place because of all the relatives in Kenya who claim he was born there, then this would not be an issue. But having a press secretary bully the public without verifiable documentation in hand only fans the flames of doubt and suspicion. Where is the openness promised by this Administration? Jesus said in Matthew 24:4, "Take heed that no man deceive you."

Bill Wilson

Word of Life Ministry
www.dailyjot.com


The Good News Corner

The Little Girl and the Piano

The guests at a certain hotel were being made uncomfortable by the repeated banging on a piano by a little girl who possessed no musical knowledge. They complained to the owner with the hope of having the annoyance stopped.

"I am sorry you are annoyed," he said. "But the girl is the child of one of my very best guests. I can hardly ask her not to touch the piano. But her father, who is away for a day or so, will return tomorrow. You can approach him and have the matter settled."

When the father returned, he found his daughter in the reception room thumping on the piano. He walked up behind the child, put his arms over her shoulders, took her hands in his, and produced some beautiful music.

So may it be with us, and so will it be someday. Just now, we can produce only clamor and disharmony; but, one day, the Lord Jesus will take hold of our hands of faith and prayer and use them to bring forth the music of the skies. -Anonymous

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

CHPP Daily Brief - July 28, 2009

In This Issue
• The Daily Brief
• The Middle East in Focus
• War on Terror
• Clinton on N.K., Iran
• What's in the Bill? (Part One)
• What's in the Bill?? (Part Two)
• The Dividing of a Nation
• The Good News Corner

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


The Daily Brief - Tuesday, July 28, 2009

"Repent, for the Kingdom of God is at hand." (Matthew 3:2)

The Daily Brief

1. 2nd Gitmo Detainee To Face Trial In U.S.? - Fox News

The Obama administration could be one step closer to transferring a second Guantanamo Bay detainee, Mohammed Jawad, to the United States to face prosecution in a criminal court. Jawad has been detained at Guantanamo Bay for more than six years. The government said it will now hold Jawad in a separate facility at Guantanamo Bay while the Justice Department completes a criminal investigation.

• We pray Lord, that You will not allow these Gitmo detainees to face trial in the U.S. We pray there will be a huge outcry against bringing them here and that those plans will come to nothing!

There are many plans in a man's heart, Nevertheless the Lord's counsel - that will stand. (Proverbs 19:21)

2. Terrorists could use internet to launch nuclear attack: report - The Guardian

Terrorists groups could soon use the internet to help set off a devastating nuclear attack, according to new research. The claims come in a study commissioned by the International Commission on Nuclear Non-proliferation and Disarmament (ICNND), which suggests that under the right circumstances, terrorists could break into computer systems and launch an attack on a nuclear state - triggering a catastrophic chain of events that would have a global impact.

• Lord, we pray that these plans of the terrorists will come to nothing. We pray for confusion to come upon them so that they will not succeed. Let us have victory over our enemies.

"I will send My fear before you, I will cause confusion among all the people to whom you come, and will make all your enemies turn their backs to you." (Exodus 23:27)

3. Clinton says Iran's nuclear pursuit is "futile" - Reuters

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said on Sunday that Iran would not be allowed to have a nuclear weapon and reiterated Washington's commitment to protect close ally Israel from any threat posed by Tehran.

• We pray, that as Secretary of State, Clinton will continue to urge support of Israel as she deals with Iran. We pray that Iran will be stopped from nuclear weapons.

Then the Lord will go forth And fight against those nations, As He fights in the day of battle. (Zechariah 14:3)

4. Iranian Police, Militia Attack Opposition Protesters - Fox News

Iranian police and pro-government militia attacked and scattered hundreds of protesters in a rare demonstration in Iran's capital Saturday, witnesses said.

• Father God, we have confidence that we can go to you in our times of trouble and be hidden from our enemies. We pray for the protesters to be shielded.

"Do Not Destroy!" Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me! For my soul trusts in You; And in the shadow of Your wings I will make my refuge, until these calamities have passed by. (Psalms 57:1)

5. Sarkozy in hospital after strenuous jog - Washington Times

French President Nicolas Sarkozy's office says he was rushed by helicopter to a military hospital Sunday after he felt unwell during a strenuous jog on a hot afternoon.

• Lord, we pray for the health of Sarkozy. Keep all the leaders of our allies in good health. Lord, as we work together on different issues, like Iran and N. Korea, we pray for one vision among all of us.

Uphold my steps in Your paths, That my footsteps may not slip. I have called upon You, for You will hear me, O God; Incline Your ear to me, and hear my speech. (Psalms 17: 5, 6)

6. EU top diplomats OK bank data talks - on terror investigations - Deutsche Welle

Although howls of protests had been raised, European Union foreign ministers meeting in Brussels on Monday gave the OK for further negotiations between the EU and the US on a new agreement to allow American authorities continued access to bank transfer data in terrorism investigations. The EU Commission and the United States consider providing access to banking data of the SWIFT banking transfer service essential in uncovering the financing of terror networks.

• Lord, we pray that all these negotiations among other nations will not be for our detriment. We pray that beneficial agreements will come out of these plans. Help us to be united against rogue nations.

And it came to pass when all the kings who were on this side of the Jordan, in the hills and in the lowland and in all the coasts of the Great Sea . . . that they gathered together to fight with Joshua and Israel with one accord. (Joshua 9:1, 2)

The Middle East in Focus

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

Beautiful in elevation, the joy of the whole earth, is Mont Zion in the far north, the city of the great King. (Psalm 48:2)

1. Settler rally: Obama racist!; his regime will fall - Ynet News

1,000 rightists protesting demand to halt settlement construction march towards US Consulate, call for Special Mideast envoy Mitchell to 'go home'; yeshiva head: Era when Jews were banned from living in different places has ended.

2. Netanyahu meets special envoy Mitchell in Jerusalem - Ynet News

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with US special Mideast envoy George Mitchell in Jerusalem Tuesday. The meeting is part of a round of meetings being held by Mitchell and other top US administration officials in the region this week.

3. 'Obama unlikely to present peace plan' - Jerusalem Post

Recent talks with US envoy George Mitchell have left Israeli officials with the impression that - contrary to expectations in some circles - President Barack Obama is not going to unfurl his own regional peace plan.

4. 'Say 'No' to US settlement pressure' - Jerusalem Post

Calling on Israel to simply say "no" to US pressure to freeze settlement activity and to divide the capital, close to a thousand people rallied outside Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu's Jerusalem home Monday evening.

5. 'US determined to forge peace' - Jerusalem Post

Special Mideast envoy George Mitchell met Sunday with Syrian President Bashar Assad, afterwards saying in a joint press conference that the meeting had addressed various ways of promoting regional peace and improving the relations between Washington and Damascus.

War on Terror

U.S. MAN WAS 'GOLD MINE' OF TERROR INTEL

When the American-born Al Qaeda recruit Bryant Neal Vinas was captured in Pakistan late last year, he wasn't whisked off to a military prison or a secret CIA facility in another country to be interrogated. Instead, the itinerant terrorist landed in the hands of the FBI and was flown back to New York to face justice. Months before Barack Hussein Obama took office with a pledge to change U.S. counterterrorism policies, the Bush administration gave Vinas all the rights of American criminal suspects.

And he talked.

. . . the circumstances of Vinas' treatment may point to a new emphasis in the fight against terror, one that relies more on FBI crimefighters and the civilian justice system than on CIA interrogators and military detention. "This was by the numbers. It was a law enforcement operation and it worked," said a senior law enforcement official, one of several authorities who spoke on condition of anonymity because they are not authorized to publicly discuss the case. The official said Vinas provided "an intelligence gold mine" to U.S. officials, including possible information about a suspected militant who was killed in a Predator drone strike last November. Another law enforcement official said that under questioning, the 26-year-old Vinas gradually provided a "treasure trove" of information, allowing U.S. counterterrorism officials to peer deep inside the inner workings of Al Qaeda.

At first after his capture, Vinas appeared scared and dejected. When he was brought back to the United States, an official said, he "started to turn the corner" and trust them, little by little. One of the first leads he gave investigators was admitting to his own role in helping al-Qaida plan an attack on U.S. soil. "I consulted with a senior al-Qaida leader and provided detailed information about the operation of the Long Island Rail Road system which I knew because I had ridden the railroad on many occasions," Vinas later told a judge in a secret guilty plea to terrorism charges. Vinas said the terrorists wanted to launch a bomb attack on the train system.

Vinas' most important contribution, authorities said, was disclosing the locations of safe houses and suspected terrorists, officials said. Vinas pleaded guilty Jan. 28 to conspiring to murder U.S. nationals. He faces life in prison, but his cooperation will likely earn him a reduced sentence. (AP)
• Pray that more Americans who joined al-Qaeda will be arrested by the FBI and will sing like the proverbial canary. Something in the American soul is set into motion when these homegrown terrorists are on their native land. While terrorists from Moslem countries resist the American thought and culture, an American instinctively knows that he is truly on blessed land. Pray that the Lord gives more techniques and strategies for getting terrorists to reveal any plans detrimental to Americans.

"Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit." (Proverbs 18:21)

Clinton on N.K., Iran

CLINTON: NORTH KOREA, IRAN FACE INTERNATIONAL OPPOSITION

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said Sunday that the international community was united in pressuring North Korea to abandon its nuclear program and preventing Iran from starting one. Clinton told NBC's "Meet the Press" that North Korea is isolated as never before and that China has been enormously helpful in pressuring the regime to abandon its nuclear program. The secretary of state recently returned from a tour of Asia and credits China with being "extremely positive and productive" in respect to North Korea. (Fox News)

• Praise the Lord that China is acting with the international community in pressuring N. Korea to abandon its nuclear program. Pray that Secretary of State Clinton is revealing the full truth of this joint effort in forcing North Korea to back down. Does China have some shrewd purpose in helping the pressure? Hardly seems likely that China would freely help the USA without demanding some favor in return, and knowing that China has bought up most of the debt of the USA, we have to ask the Lord to expose any favors promised to China by Clinton. After all, China is a communist country.

• We do not want to be like Esau, who stated to his brother Jacob," Look, I an about to die; so what profit shall this birthright be to me?" (Genesis 25:32)

What's in the Bill? (Part One)

More Abortion Funding Found in Senate Bill

SUMMARY: As lawmakers in Washington consider appropriations bills, more evidence surfaces of their attempts to use taxpayer money to fund abortions.

An amendment that prohibited taxpayers from paying for abortions has vanished from the U.S. Senate version of a spending bill.

The text of the bill recently became available, and pro-life groups discovered the deletion of the amendment by Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J. That means 8 million federal employees would be eligible for abortion coverage under the Federal Employee Health Benefits Program (FEHBP).

"This is particularly noteworthy in light of what's going on with the national health care reform," said Tom McClusky, vice president of government with the Family Research Council FEHBP has been repeatedly used to show what the new national health care system might look like. In that context it is alarming that the Senate is now proposing to fund abortion through the program."

The House has already passed its Financial Services Appropriations bill (HR 3170) that will allow taxpayer-funded abortions in the District of Columbia. A companion bill in the Senate sealed the deal.

The District already has the highest abortion rate in the country and Dr. Charmaine Yoest, president and CEO of Americans United for Life, worries that more funding will drive that number even higher.

"What we're finding is the classic, classic cliche: The more you fund, the more you get," she said. "At the same time that we are hearing reassurances that we not worry about federal funding of abortion, every time we see a piece of legislation, we see language that really does raise concerns."

Ashley Horne, federal issues analyst for Focus on the Family Action, encouraged life advocates to speak up.

"It's so important for lawmakers to hear from the folks back home," she said. "We're asking people to call their senators and ask them to vote against this bill unless the Smith Amendment is reinstated."

TAKE ACTION:

Call your two U.S. senators and tell them to vote "No" on the Senate Financial Services Appropriations bill. For contact information, go here.

http://ydr.inyork.com/ci_12725598

What's in the Bill?? (Part Two)

What's in the Healthcare Bill?

Family Research Council Sponsors One Hour Webcast:
"Government Takeover of Health Care"

The White House and the Congress have been working to rush their health care reform plan through before most, if not all, have even read the bill. (To date, not a single Congressman or Senator who has expressed support for the plan has signed Let Freedom Ring's pledge to read the bill.) Since Congress doesn't know what is in the bill, you need to know. Tomorrow evening, July 28, at 8:30 p.m. ET, FRC Action will bring you a special live one hour webcast from our headquarters in Washington D.C. Government Takeover of Health Care: The Moral, Ethical and Financial Dangers of the President's Health Care Reform Plan.

Join me, Senator Jim DeMint (R-S.C.), Congressman Mike Pence (R-Ind.), FRC Action's Tom McClusky and David Christensen, Doug Johnson of National Right to Life, Bryan McManus with the Health Care Freedom Coalition, and others. FRC Action will also be unveiling its first 30-second TV ad that we plan to use in targeted states. To be a part of the evening and find out what you can do to make a difference in this critical debate, click over to www.frcaction.org/takeover on Tuesday night. If you're concerned about your values, your dollars, and your health, this is one event you won't want to miss!

The Dividing of a Nation

The approval ratings of the man who occupies the Oval Office have been declining precipitously in the last two weeks. The latest polls--even from those who appear to take samples weighted in favor of liberal leaning voters--have indicated that some 40% of Americans disapprove of the job Obama is doing, bringing his approval index rating to a minus 11. Only 25% of those polled believe the so-called economic stimulus has helped the nation's economy. And it would appear that the growing disapproval numbers are a signal that the socialization of the nation's financial, mortgage, and healthcare industries is meeting resistance among the population.

One indicator is Texas, where populist Republican Governor Rick Perry is playing the state's rights protections of the Constitution's 10th Amendment. Perry told reporters he hopes socialized healthcare will not pass Congress, "But I'm certainly willing and ready for the fight if this administration continues to try to force their very expansive government philosophy down our collective throats." In support of a state resolution on the 10th Amendment, Perry said, "the federal government has become oppressive in its size, its intrusion into the lives of our citizens and its interference with the affairs of our state." He predicted many more states will say no to overreaching federal government.

The example of Texas could be a bubble of revolt under the veneer of what the news media and political media consultants have portrayed as a new Camelot at the White House. Viewed by many as a messiah, OOO has until this month received superstar treatment by the news organizations and media managers, which has created the image of a smooth running juggernaut of remaking America into a new social democracy. The free fall in approval ratings is a clear indicator that Americans are pushing back hard against socialization of the economy and nationalized healthcare. But even more is a division not seen since the civil rights movement.

The Rasmussen Report, which tracks the daily approval ratings of the White House, is also reporting a huge divide on all questions between whites and blacks. Neither political nor racial division is good for America. It would seem that Martin Luther King, Jr.'s remarks in August 1963 are appropriate today as they were then: "I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character." And Jesus warned in Mark 3:24, "And if a kingdom be divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand." Let us stand on the righteousness of Christ that we may not fall by the divisions of race.

Bill Wilson
Word of Life Ministry
www.dailyjot.com

The Good News Corner

GOOD NEWS FROM THE PENNSYLVANIA STATEHOUSE!

Pennsylvania Pastor to Pray Before State Senate
After Turning Down House Invitation
That Prevented Him From Using Jesus' Name
(Straban Township, PA)-The Rev. Gerry Stoltzfoos will be praying to Jesus in front of Pennsylvania legislators when he serves as guest chaplain on July 29.

Stoltzfoos, pastor of Freedom Valley Worship Center, recently declined an invitation from state Rep. Will Tallman, to write and recite a prayer before a House session last week, because Speaker of the House Keith McCall, D-Carbon County, asked that he remove a single reference to Jesus from the prayer's closing.

Unwilling to compromise his beliefs, Stoltzfoos said, "I just feel like if you want me to pray, then I have to pray to the one thing I know. I only know one God personally. I only serve one God. How do I do something that dishonors Him?"

However, as reported in The Daily Record, Stoltzfoos is going to accept the offer of Sen. Rich Alloway to offer a prayer before the Senate opens session, after finding out that "the Senate does not enforce the same guidelines" as the House. (Teresa Neumann ; Breaking Christian News)

Monday, July 27, 2009

On Capitol Hill This Week - Volume XVI, Number 24

In This Issue
• HEALTH CARE STALLED IN CONGRESS
• HATE CRIMES UPDATE
• URGENT - VOTE ON SOTOMAYOR IS TOMORROW
• GUN CONTROL/STATES' RIGHTS
• STIMULUS PACKAGE
• EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT
• CHURCH AND STATE
• 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 24
July 27 - 31, 2009

PART ONE

"Repent, for the Kingdom of God is at hand." ( Matthew 3:2)

HEALTH CARE STALLED IN CONGRESS

• KEY SENATE DEMOCRAT CONCEDES REPUBLICAN SUPPORT NEEDED
• WHY OBAMACARE IS DEAD FOR NOW
• TWO HEALTHCARE REFORM BILLS MEAN MORE TAX-FUNDED ABORTIONS
• HEADLINES FOR THIS WEEK

1. KEY SENATE DEMOCRAT CONCEDES REPUBLICAN SUPPORT NEEDED FOR HEALTH OVERHAUL

Senate Democrats are going to need help from Republicans to get President Obama's ambitious plan to reinvent the health care system over the goal line, a top lawmaker acknowledged on Sunday. "Look, there are not the votes for Democrats to do this just on our side of the aisle," said Sen. Kent Conrad, the chairman of the powerful budget committee. Even though the Democrats enjoy a majority in the Senate, some are skittish about the financial or political costs of the proposals.

And Republicans said they will continue their opposition to a plan they claim is simply a government takeover of private decisions. "Republicans want to protect the right of Americans to make their own health care decisions, to pick their own doctors and their own plans," said Sen. Jim DeMint, R-S.C. "We could have a plan in a few weeks if the goal is not a government takeover. We've never seen the government operate a plan of any kind effectively and at the budgets we talked about." (Fox News)

• When people come to the USA from throughout the world for health care, something is basically right about our system. That improvement can be made is a given and should be pursued. However, government takeover always leads to dictatorship, a violation of our Constitution. Many Christians and Jews do contribute to the health of Americans and people of the world. Continue in prayer over this entire issue until Congress can arrive at a health care package that helps, rather than hurts, our people; and that they will take the time to get it right.

"He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him - the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day." (John 12:48)

2. WHY OBAMA CARE IS DEAD FOR NOW

The White House political machine is run by Rahm Israel Emanuel, who is Obama's Chief of Staff. His plan was to "flood" the Congress with Obama's full agenda all at once. He believed that hitting with the Stimulus, Cap and Trade, Health "reform," and gay issues all at once would overwhelm the Republicans and there would be instant victory. It didn't work. So much change so fast and without deliberation, scared the general public, particularly Independent voters, so much that the plan backfired. Now, virtually all of Obama's agenda is dead in the water. Although "Cap and Trade" passed the House, it is dead in the Senate. Meanwhile Senator Harry Reid has announced that he can't move forward with the "Health Reform."

In the House, many of Obama's grand plans are stuck in committee with even Democrats afraid to vote for them because of the outcry from constituents back home. Meanwhile Obama is sinking in the polls. Rasmussen has his "strongly approve rating at 30% and his "strongly disapprove rating at 38%. (Religious Freedom Coalition)

• Offer praise for this report, which is a direct answer to prayer that the timing of this bill would be according to God's will. Praise God that Congress WILL slow down and examine this behemoth package carefully and deliberately.

"There is an appointed time for everything, and there is a time for every event under heaven." (Eccl. 3:1)

3. TWO HEALTHCARE REFORM BILLS COULD MEAN MORE ABORTIONS AT TAXPAYERS' EXPENSE

The two primary measures -- the Kennedy bill and the House Democratic leadership bill -- contain provisions that would represent the greatest expansion of abortion since the Supreme Court legalized it in 1973, according to Douglas Johnson of the National Right to Life Committee.

"These two bills contain multiple provisions that would result in federally mandated insurance coverage of abortion on demand, result in massive federal subsidies for abortion, result even in mandated creation of many new abortion clinics across the country," he explains.

Johnson adds the bills would nullify at least some state limitations on abortion. He concludes passage would result in an increase in abortions, but recalls the Obama administration promised to take steps to reduce them. (OneNewsNow.com 7/16/09)

• Intercede that the Lord will raise up courageous advocates for the preservation of human life in the Obama administration and in Congress. Pray that all tax-funded mandating of abortion be thwarted in any and all Health Care legislation. Pray that members of Congress heed the shift occurring across the nation - that support for abortion is dropping.

"O God, restore us and cause Your face to shine upon us, and we will be saved." (Psalm 80:3)
(Source: Intercessors for America)

4. HEADLINES FOR THIS WEEK

The following headlines from this past week are a brief summary of the issues surrounding Obama's Healthcare package as of today. For all needs cited below, please join us in decreeing:

"Let God arise, and His enemies be scattered, and let those who hate Him flee before Him." (Psalm 68:1)

A. THE BILL ITSELF

1) Shock: Inside the Healthcare Bill - New York Times; Economic Policy Journal

It pays to take a look at what is actually in the healthcare bill. Peter Fleckstein is reading it and has been posting on Twitter his findings.

[Editor's note: Mr. Fleckstein has analyzed numerous provisions of H.R. 3200 - the Health Care bill - and cited them by page number. You can check this out for yourself, by going here to read the entire bill, which is now 1,017 pages long!]

2) Fred Thompson Points to P. 425: End-of-Life Counseling for Seniors - American Family Association

On page 425 of Obama's health care bill, the Federal Government will require EVERYONE who is on Social Security to undergo a counseling session every 5 years with the objective being that they will explain to them just how to end their own life earlier.

To listen to Senator Thompson's interview, go here.

3) Obama Health Care Mandates Abortion - Christian Coalition of America

The Dean of the pro-life movement in the United States House of Representatives, Congressman Chris Smith (R-NJ), who learned at the feet of the previous dean - the late Henry Hyde (Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee during the presidency of Bill Clinton) - recently held a press conference warning all Americans about the dangerous Obama health care bill which mandates abortions, paid for with American tax dollars.

B. THE STATUS OF H.R. 3200 ON THE HILL

1) Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid Says: No health care vote before August break - CNN

The announcement by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid of Nevada goes against President Obama's stated timetable for the House and Senate to turn out bills by the August break.

2) House healthcare talks break down in anger - The Hill

House healthcare negotiations dissolved in acrimony on Friday, with Blue Dog Democrats saying they were "lied" to by their Democratic leaders. In advance of a subsequent press conference called by House leadership, Blue Dog liaison Rep. Dennis Cardoza (D-Calif.) said the healthcare bill should be staying in committee. "I expect the committee process to proceed," Cardoza said.

3) Democrats Block GOP Health Care Mailing - Roll Call

Democrats are preventing Republican House Members from sending their constituents a mailing that is critical of the majority's health care reform plan, blocking the mailing by alleging that it is inaccurate.

4) Most Americans Are Skeptical About Health Care Reform - CBN News

President Barack Obama is using the full political weight of the White House to push for health care reform. But so far, that has not done the trick to get Washington lawmakers on board. Many Americans are also skeptical about the president's plan. [Also reported by: Christian Coalition of America]

HATE CRIMES UPDATE

TWO STRATEGIES STILL AVAILABLE TO BLOCK PASSAGE OF HATE CRIME ACT

When Sen. Leahy (D-VT) attached the pro-homosexual "Pedophile Protection Act" to the Defense Authorization Act, he imagined zero resistance from House Democrats, or from President Obama. He failed to realize, however, how the battle to fund the F-22 Raptor jet for our Air Force could shoot the homosexual agenda down in flames. We have one last chance to stop the "Hate Crimes" bill, by demanding the House Conferees stand firmly by their 389 to 22 vote to fully fund the F-22 fighters. If they do, President Obama has vowed to veto the entire bill, and kill the pro-homosexual "Hate Crimes" amendment with it.

Furthermore, after our 1,055,000 petitions were read by some Senators, they voted 78-13 to pass Sen. Brownback's good amendment to the Hate Crimes bill, protecting freedom of speech by pastors, stating the federal hate crimes law shall not be "applied . . . in a manner that infringes" First Amendment rights or that "substantially burdens any exercise of religion . . . speech, expression, [or] association, if such exercise of religion, speech, expression, or association was not intended to . . .incite an imminent act of physical violence against another." Sen. Brownback provided additional protection for religious exercise and free speech beyond the minimum protection that a court may apply. Your faxes to the Senate helped win this victory!

But Conferees have power to strip the Brownback Amendment, which we must protect. And Conferees have power to equip American pilots with F-22 fighter jets, which would guarantee Obama's veto of the entire "Pedophile Protection Amendment." So we must act, and now petition the House and Senate Armed Services Committees for two things:

1) Keep the good Brownback Amendment, and don't allow it to be stripped in conference.

2) Keep the good F-22's, and equip American pilots with the best fighter jets in the world.

As an Air Force Academy graduate, I can say our military pilots deserves the best jets, which President Obama and some Senators sadly wish to stop funding, even while they load our Pentagon Budget with special rights for homosexuals, pedophiles, and deviants. --Chaplain Gordon James Klingenschmitt

Pray in Jesus' Name Ministry

• Just as America is now waking up to the dangers of Obama's Health Care plan, pray that an awakening would also arise in the hearts of those whose free speech rights would be endangered by the Hate Crimes language that has been embedded in this bill. The enemy of our souls can be devious, sly, and secretive, but our God knows it all. Ask Him to move upon the hearts of our people to TAKE ACTION to block this maneuver from bearing fruit.

• "He frustrates the devices of the crafty, So that their hands cannot carry out their plans." (Job 5:12)

URGENT - VOTE ON SOTOMAYOR IS TOMORROW

URGENT!!

SOTOMAYOR NOMINATION PENDING
Senate Judiciary Committee Will Vote Tomorrow Whether to Approve Her Nomination

Gun Lobby Opposes Nomination

Key Republican Senator to Oppose

1. GUN LOBBY OPPOSES SOTOMAYOR'S NOMINATION

a) Excerpt of letter to members of Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms

"The Second Amendment survives today by a single vote in the Supreme Court. Both its application to the states AND whether there will be a meaningfully strict standard of review remain to be decided by the High Court. Judge Sotomayor has already revealed her views on these issues -- and they are obviously contrary to the intent and purposes of the Second Amendment and Bill of Rights. As supporters of the Second Amendment who are deeply concerned about preserving all fundamental rights for current and future generations of Americans, we need to strongly oppose this nominee, and URGE the Senate NOT to confirm Judge Sonia Sotomayor."

b) National Rifle Association Opposes Sotomayor:

"Dear Leader Reid and Leader McConnell:

We are writing to express the National Rifle Association's opposition to the nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor as Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court.

. . . We believe that any individual who does not agree that the Second Amendment guarantees a fundamental right and who does not respect our God-given right of self- defense should not serve on any court, much less the highest court in the land. Given the importance of this issue, the vote on Judge Sotomayor's confirmation will be considered in NRA's future candidate evaluations." (Excerpt of letter)

c) From Gun Owners of America:

"Obama Picks Anti-gun Judge for the Supreme Court"

President Obama has picked an anti-gun radical to replace Justice David Souter on the Supreme Court.

Obama's pick is Judge Sonia Sotomayor, who is currently on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second District. There she has racked up an anti-Second Amendment record and has displayed contempt for the rule of law under the Constitution.

• Remain in travailing prayer over this nomination. May God hear the cries of our people, and may He deliver us from oppression. Pray that the members of the Senate Judiciary Committee would weigh ALL aspects of Ms. Sotomayor's candidacy before making a decision. Pray!

"The LORD will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men's hearts." (I Corin. 4:5)

2. KEY REPUBLICAN SENATOR SESSIONS TO VOTE AGAINST SOTOMAYOR

The top Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee plans to vote against Supreme Court nominee Sonia Sotomayor, citing concerns about her record of "judicial activism."

So far, South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham is the only Republican on the Judiciary Committee to come out in favor of the justice.

Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions' decision comes the day before the Judiciary panel is to vote on President Obama's first high court nominee. Sotomayor, though, is virtually certain to be confirmed by a vote of the full Senate by the end of next week, becoming the first Hispanic justice. Sessions acknowledged she probably had the votes in his column. (Fox News)

• Only our Lord can save us now, based upon the votes we see. Believe God for a miracle of divine intervention in the case of this nominee. Nothing is too difficult for Him!

"Is anything too difficult for the LORD?" (Genesis 18:14)

GUN CONTROL/STATES' RIGHTS

GUN CONTROL ISSUES

STATES' RIGHTS ISSUES

• OBAMA ADMINISTRATION TAKES AIM AT GUN-RIGHTS REVOLT
• GUN CONTROL BILLS TO WATCH IN CONGRESS
• TEXAS GOVERNOR CONSIDERS STATES' RIGHTS SHOWDOWN
• GUN CONTROL PROPONENTS SCORED A RARE VICTORY IN SENATE


1. OBAMA ADMINISTRATION TAKES AIM AT GUN-RIGHTS REVOLT

The Obama administration is raising the stakes in a fight over states' rights and firearm ownership by arguing that new pro-gun laws in Montana and Tennessee are invalid.

In the last few months, a grass-roots, federalist revolt against Washington, D.C. has begun to spread through states that are home to politically active gun owners. Montana and Tennessee have enacted state laws saying that federal rules do not apply to firearms manufactured entirely within the state, and similar bills are pending in Texas, Alaska, Minnesota, and South Carolina.

Yet the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, and Explosives now claims that that not only is such a state law invalid, but "because the act conflicts with federal firearms laws and regulations, federal law supersedes the act."

. . . While this federalism-inspired revolt has coalesced around gun rights, the broader goal is to dust off a section of the Bill of Rights that most Americans probably have paid scant attention to: the Tenth Amendment. It says that "powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people."

Read literally, the Tenth Amendment seems to suggest that the federal government's powers are limited only to what it has been "delegated," and the U.S. Supreme Court in 1918 confirmed that the amendment "carefully reserved" some authority "to the states." That view is echoed by statements made at the time the Constitution was adopted; New Hampshire explicitly said that states kept "all powers not expressly and particularly delegated" to the federal government. (CBS News) Read more.

• Whether or not one chooses to possess a firearm, the right to bear arms is guaranteed in our Constitution in the Second Amendment, and does deserve our prayer support. The Tenth Amendment, too, needs to be understood just as it was written -- the protection of States' Rights. Lift up the Obama administration -- one that seems to ignore the Constitution whenever and wherever possible -- and ask the LORD to lead them back to reality: this nation is ONE NATION UNDER GOD and ONE NATION UNDER OUR CONSTITUTION. Thank you.

"Do not move the ancient boundary stone set up by your forefathers." (Proverbs 22:28)

2. GUN CONTROL BILLS TO WATCH IN CONGRESS

Please note this list of pending legislation in Congress that would restrict gun ownership and/or ammunition ownership in our land. Pray over each one.

+ S. 391: Graham-Wyden-Stabenow bill will create national firearms registry
+ S. 2401: McCarthy "No Fly, No Buy" bill: denies gun purchases to anyone on "no fly" list - something notorious for false positives, mistaken identities, etc
+ Ratification of CIFTA treaty (criminalizes even cleaning and re-assembling gun, reloading one as "illegal manufacture")
+ Ratification of Inter-American Convention against the Illicit Manufacturing of and Trafficking in Firearms, Ammunition, Explosives, and Other Related Materials: skirts the 2nd Amendment by authorizing complete regulation, by internationalist body - of all such materials
+ S-2099 forces taxpayers to declare all weapons on federal tax return, pay $50 tax on each one; may require fingerprinting
+ (Gun Owners of America)

• Please pray first for the American voter to rise up and move in the direction of active participation in taking back his country, item by item if need be. Intercede, as the heart of God is on full display through the resolution of our forefathers in creating The Declaration of Independence and The United States Constitution, that the trappings of each bill that is being rushed through, stuffed in some other legislation, would be hurled to the forefront and exposed for what it is, an effort to once again circumvent the framers original intent.

• Decree by the spirit that this attempt to create a breach in the rule of law be filled with the truth and nothing but. Pray without ceasing for a true and productive relationship and connection between all elected officials and their constituents. Ask that the voters would put forth as much effort to stay abreast of these important issues as they did when they got out to vote their officials into office.

"Most men will proclaim each his own goodness, But who can find a faithful man?" (Proverbs 20:6)

3. TEXAS GOVERNOR CONSIDERS STATES' RIGHTS SHOWDOWN OVER HEALTH CARE PLAN

AUSTIN - Gov. Rick Perry, raising the specter of a showdown with the Obama administration, suggested Thursday that he would consider invoking states' rights protections under the 10th Amendment to resist the president's healthcare plan, which he said would be "disastrous" for Texas.

Interviewed by conservative talk show host Mark Davis of Dallas' WBAP/820 AM, Perry said his first hope is that Congress will defeat the plan, which both Perry and Davis described as "Obama Care." But should it pass, Perry predicted that Texas and a "number" of states might resist the federal health mandate.

"I think you'll hear states and governors standing up and saying 'no' to this type of encroachment on the states with their healthcare," Perry said. "So my hope is that we never have to have that stand-up. But I'm certainly willing and ready for the fight if this administration continues to try to force their very expansive government philosophy down our collective throats." (www.star-telegram.com)
• Offer praise that, whatever the issue, the governors of our states are taking note of the encroachment of their own rights by the federal government. Ask the Lord to give each governor a bold spirit and the courage of Joshua when confronting the Obama administration in ANY MATTER of this nature. The line has been drawn in the sand by the Tenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, so that the rights of the states to govern themselves IS the law of the land.

"The LORD your God in your midst Mighty One, will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.'" (Zephaniah 3:17)

4. GUN CONTROL PROPONENTS SCORED A RARE VICTORY IN SENATE - CBN News

Gun control proponents scored a rare victory as the Senate rejected the carrying of concealed weapons across state lines. The 58-39 vote Wednesday defeated a measure giving people with concealed weapons permits the right to carry their firearms into other states that have similar gun laws. Sixty votes were needed to approve the provision, an amendment to a defense spending bill. [Also reported by: Christian Coalition of America]

• As the federal government continues to encroach upon the rights of our citizens to bear arms, stand in agreement with the Word of God, which does not fail.

• IT IS WRITTEN: "I am watching over My Word to perform it." (Jer. 1:12) and "When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him." (Isaiah 59:19)


STIMULUS PACKAGE

DEMS, GOP CLASH OVER RESULTS OF STIMULUS PACKAGE AND NEED FOR SECOND ONE

Democrats pushed back Sunday against critics who say the $787 billion stimulus package didn't deliver the promised results. White House spokesman Robert Gibbs told FOX News that the federal spending bill pulled the country back from the precipice of another Great Depression and that it was meant to get the economy back on track over the next two years. He said the White House is on schedule to spend 70 percent of the stimulus money by September 2010 and argued the intensity of the recession would have been longer and deeper without the spending bill.

But Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said the evidence shows that the stimulus package was a "big mistake. . . I think we can fairly safely declare it now a failure," McConnell told CNN Sunday. "It was sold to us as something that was going to jolt the economy, that was going to hold unemployment to 8 percent. Unemployment's going over 10 percent."

Debate over the results of the stimulus package has been raging as the unemployment rate climbs and some economists and business leaders call for a second spending bill designed to help guide the economy through a downturn that has left millions without jobs. Unemployment - which is at 9.5 percent and expected to top 10 percent this year - has risen faster than previously anticipated.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Sunday that she doesn't support a second stimulus package. "I believe that good times are ahead," she told CNN. "I would rather just stick with the initiative that we have, get it out faster if we can, but not worry about doing another stimulus package." (FOX News)

• Is Mr. Gibbs living in a dream world where "wishing will not make it so"? His statements fly in the face of facts. Mrs. Pelosi' statements suggest that either she is tired or her wealthy husband's money is being impacted by the down turn in the economy. And what does she mean "good times are ahead." Praise the Lord that Congressmen like Sen. Mitch McConnell are growing in numbers and watching the economy closely. Watch also yourselves and pray for truth, and encourage neighbors and relatives to call their Congressmen's offices to express the opinions that the Lord reveals to you are accurate.

"The integrity of the upright will guide them, but the perversity of the unfaithful will destroy them. Riches do not profit in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death." (Proverbs 11:3,4)

EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT

Congresswoman Backs New Equal Rights Amendment; Points to Afghanistan, China as Models

Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas) told activists rallying on Capitol Hill in support of the newly reintroduced Equal Rights Amendment (ERA), that the United States should join 27 other countries that have equality guarantees for women, including Rwanda, Algeria, China and Afghanistan. (CNS News)

• Lord, we ask that you show Ms Lee the truth about nations she is using as her primer and allow her to experience firsthand the practice of "equality" there. Let her speak with the real women of these nations to see how their disastrous is their practice of women's rights. Father please stop the deceptions that constantly use other nations as guides for our own - let our leadership see that "one nation under God" is the only way to achieve true equality.

"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord." (Psalm 33:12)

CHURCH AND STATE

In God We Trust Lawsuit Over Capitol Visitor's Center

If a lawsuit seeking to ban the national motto "In God We Trust" from the U.S. Capitol Visitor's Center is successful, some lawmakers say America's foundations will crumble.

The Freedom from Religion Foundation, an atheist organization, filed suit July 14 to remove the engraving. Rep. Randy Forbes, R-Va., was instrumental in getting the motto added to the visitor's center after it was omitted from the original design. read more »

"This group wants us to say that was a lie," Forbes said. "If that was a lie, then the rights also were a lie because those rights came from the Creator. "If you take away the Creator then you have to ask this question, 'Where do the rights come from?' If they came from government, then government can give them to you and government can take them away," he added.

Congress overwhelmingly approved the engraving this month. (CBN News)

• Offer praise to the LORD for the boldness of men like Congressman Randy Forbes who are now serving in Congress. Ask our Lord to continue to grant them favor with all other members as they stand as voices for RIGHTEOUSNESS in the halls of Congress.

Pray, too, that this lawsuit would be rejected, so that our national motto, "In God We Trust," WILL be proudly displayed for all to see in the Capitol Visitors' Center. Amen!

"For the LORD is our Judge, The LORD is our Lawgiver, The LORD is our King; He will save us." (Isaiah 33:22)


PART TWO

On Capitol Hill This Week - Volume XVI, Number 24b

• THE GATES ARREST
• WHITE HOUSE NEWS
• NEWS FROM ISRAEL
• THURSDAY: THE 9TH OF AV

THE GATES ARREST

1. OBAMA LASHES OUT AT COPS IN CAMBRIDGE
2. OBAMA SAYS THE WHITE COP ACTED "STUPIDLY"
3. OBAMA FUELING RACIAL TENSION; ANGERS POLICE NATIONWIDE
4. OBAMA RUSHES TO QUELL RACIAL UPROAR HE HELPED FIRE
5. OBAMA TO HOLD "BEER SUMMIT" WITH COP, SCHOLAR
6. A COMMENTARY BY BISHOP HARRY L. JACKSON


1. OBAMA LASHES OUT AT COPS IN CAMBRIDGE

President Obama made a colossal mistake during last night's press conference on a question he would have been wiser to "punt" on. He was asked about the arrest of Harvard scholar Henry Louis Gates Jr., a friend of Obama's, in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Police initially identified Gates as a robber when he broke open the door to his home after accidentally locking himself out. According to the police report, when police asked Gates, an African American, for proof of identity, he became belligerent, called them racists, was uncooperative and finally had to be arrested for disorderly conduct.

A reporter asked the president what he thought of the incident. Unwisely, President Obama jumped in, without all the facts. He accused the Cambridge police of acting "stupidly," and then he broadened his comments to accuse policy generally of having a history of disproportionately stopping "African Americans and Latinos." In short, the president lapsed back to the approach he would have taken in his "community organizer" days. (Gary Bauer; End-of-Day; Thursday, July 23, 2009)

The president is in a hole, but he keeps on digging. He couldn't resist telling ABC last night, "I have to say I am surprised by the controversy surrounding my statement because I think it was a pretty straightforward comment that you probably don't need to handcuff a guy, a middle-aged man, who uses a cane, who is in his own home." Well, Mr. President, there is a controversy because you inserted yourself into a local police matter without knowing the facts, said the police acted stupidly and then suggested the whole incident was part of a long history of racism. (Gary Bauer; End-of-Day; Friday, July 24, 2009)

• One of the jobs of any president is to serve as a standard bearer for the American people - someone whose behavior and whose judgment is one we can all respect. Pray for this Harvard-educated man, Barack Hussein Obama, that he, too, will learn to wear his new mantle as president with the dignity that is expected of him. Often, words spoken rashly come back to bite us. May his words be graced with wisdom and with truth. Amen.

"Praise be to the name of God forever and ever; wisdom and power are His!" (Daniel 2:20)

2. OBAMA SAYS THE WHITE COP ACTED "STUPIDLY"

Can you just imagine the outrage if a black cop had arrested a white man in his home, and President George W. Bush, without checking the facts of the case, had called the black cop "stupid?" For weeks the mainstream media would have displayed screaming headlines calling Bush a racist. However, that is exactly what Barack Obama did on national TV. Without knowing any details, he sided with a black man who had been arrested by a white cop and called the white cop "stupid."

This pretty much shows the racial bias of Obama. He sees everything through color and gender filters. "This post has to be filled by a woman and this post needs to be filled by a Hispanic," is now the thinking behind White House appointments. There is no such thing as searching for the best person for the job in the Obama Administration. Individuals such as Supreme Court nominee Sonia Sotomayor are picked not for qualifications, but because of race and gender.

3. OBAMA FUELING RACIAL TENSION; ANGERS POLICE NATIONWIDE

President Barack Obama plunged his presidency into a charged racial debate and set off a firestorm with police officers nationwide by siding with a prominent black scholar who accuses police of racism. Saying he was unaware of "all the facts" but that police in Cambridge, Massachusetts, "acted stupidly" in their arrest of Harvard's Henry Louis Gates, Obama whipped up emotions on both sides of an issue that threatens to open old wounds.

"The President has alienated public safety officers across the country by his comments," said David Holway, president of the International Brotherhood of Police Officers, which represents 15,000 public security officials. In a letter to Obama, he sought an apology. "You not only used poor judgment in your choice of words, you indicted all members of the Cambridge police department and public safety officers across the country." (Reuters)

• Unfortunately, the years of teaching that Obama has sat under with Jeremiah Wright seems to now be bearing fruit. Pray much for the man in the Oval Office, that he would become "color blind" to the issues in front of him, but judge each case or person on the basis of his or her own merit. It is written that the LORD is not a "respecter of persons," and neither are we in this nation. Amen.

"Then Peter opened his mouth and said: "In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality. But in every nation whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him." (Acts 10:34,35)

4. OBAMA RUSHES TO QUELL RACIAL UPROAR HE HELPED FIRE

Knocked off stride by a racial uproar he helped stoke, Hussein Obama hastened Friday to tamp down the controversy. Obama, who had said Cambridge, Mass., police "acted stupidly" in arresting black scholar Henry Louis Gates Jr., declared the white arresting officer was a good man and invited him and the professor to the White House for a beer. Obama conceded his words had been ill-chosen, but he stopped short of a public apology. He personally telephoned both Gates and Sgt. James Crowley, hoping to end the rancorous back-and-forth over what had transpired and what Obama had said about it. Trying to lighten the situation, he even commiserated with Crowley about reporters on his lawn. (AP)

• Lord, we are so thankful for the men and women who place themselves in danger every day to protect the citizens of this country. May this administration be cognizant of the stresses in the lives of police officers and may they honor the sacrifices made by the officers and their families. We are grateful for the racial reconciliation that is spreading in this country, and we pray that this event will foster cooperation and not be used to split the nation by those seeking their own agendas. May the truth of this event be proclaimed, and may any who are being unfairly attacked be vindicated.

"He who speaks from himself seeks his own glory; but He who is seeking the glory of the One who sent Him, He is true, and there is no unrighteousness in Him." (John 7:18)

5. OBAMA TO HOLD "BEER SUMMIT" WITH COP, SCHOLAR

Obama's highly anticipated sit-down with Cambridge Police Sgt. James Crowley and Harvard professor Henry Louis Gates Jr. over some brews is expected to take place early this week, administration officials said Sunday. Obama extended the invitation Friday in phone calls to the two men as he tried to calm a furor over racial profiling and his comments this week that the police "acted stupidly" in arresting Gates. He invited both to share a beer.

"I think the president sees this as an opportunity to get dialogue going on an issue that has been historically troubling and one he has worked on and they both seem very eager to move forward, so I expect that it will," he said. (Fox News)

• With all respect, it is going to take more than conversation over a beer to heal centuries of tension between blacks and whites in this nation. This entire incident, which began in Cambridge last week, has the potential of ripping open old wounds from the past . . . wounds which must, in time, be healed. But this will be a slow, careful process . . . one which will take time. Pray, asking our Lord to pour his oil over these potentially troubled waters; and to finally bring good from what started as a very nasty incident this past week. Pray!

"Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed." (James 5:16)

6. A COMMENTARY BY BISHOP HARRY JACKSON

Black Graduate of Harvard Law School - Bishop E.W. Jackson Sr. says Obama and Professor Gates are Singing from Jeremiah Wright's Racial Hymn Book.

STAND is dedicated to bringing Americans together around our common Judeo-Christian heritage and culture instead of dividing along race and class lines. "Barack Obama is the most powerful man in the world," says the Bishop. "I am shocked and dismayed that the President of the United States is playing the race card. I guess the Obama apple doesn't fall far from the Wright tree." Bishop E.W. Jackson Sr., President of STAND, a national patriotic grassroots organization, took issue with the President and Prof. Henry Gates for whining about what he called "a non-issue." Bishop Jackson is black, graduated from Harvard Law School and lived and practiced law in Cambridge for many years. He says, "I lived or worked in Cambridge for 23 years. In all that time I was never mistreated by Cambridge police."

Jackson has angered many in the traditional civil rights community for proclaiming that it is time to do away with the hyphenated American: African-American, Italo-American, Irish-American. "It is time to say 'we are all Americans and proud of it,'" says the Bishop.

• We want to praise God for Bishop Jackson, and for other African-American leaders whose strong voices for TRUTH and for JUSTICE can sweep away the cobwebs of fear and deception in our nation, and clear the way for excellence in race relations, based upon biblical principles. May God raise up even more voices like those of Bishop Jackson, and may America hear and take heed. Amen.

"You have loved righteousness and hated lawlessness; Therefore God, Your God, has anointed You With the oil of gladness more than Your companions." (Heb. 1:9)

WHITE HOUSE NEWS

1. GOP CONGRESSIONAL REPORT ACCUSES ACORN OF POLITICAL CORRUPTION
2. REVEALED: 'THE OBAMA BIRTH CERTIFICATE PROTECTION ACT'?
3. CZAR OF THE WEEK: CASS SUNSTEIN
4. CZARS OF THE OBAMA UNDERWORLD
5. HEAD OF CBO (CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET OFFICE) VERSUS OBAMA
6. FIRST LADY REQUIRES MORE THAN 20 ATTENDANTS


1. GOP CONGRESSIONAL REPORT ACCUSES ACORN OF POLITICAL CORRUPTION

ACORN engaged in a scheme to use taxpayer money to support a partisan political agenda, according to a new report from Republicans on a House oversight committee. The report, to be released Thursday afternoon, accuses ACORN of fraudulent activities and widespread corruption and calls for a criminal investigation into the advocacy group. It offers the first detailed account of the allegations that have dogged the organization in recent months.

"Both structurally and operationally, ACORN hides behind a paper wall of nonprofit corporate protections to conceal a criminal conspiracy on the part of its directors, to launder federal money in order to pursue a partisan agenda and to manipulate the American electorate," an executive summary of the report reads.

ACORN, or the Association of Community Organizations for Reform, has been under constant fire from conservatives since last year for its support of Barack Obama's presidential candidacy and its planned participation in next year's 2010 census. (Fox News)

• Lord we pray that this new report will move the leadership in Congress to stop funding ACORN activities and stop them from the continual violations of Your ways.

"For He knoweth vain men; He seeth wickedness also; will He not then consider it?" (Job 11:11)

2. REVEALED: 'THE OBAMA BIRTH CERTIFICATE PROTECTION ACT'?

Bill would prohibit compelling executive branch from releasing documents

A bill approved by the House of Representatives and referred to the Senate would prohibit federal employees of executive branch from being compelled to release any document unless a court makes a specified determination by a preponderance of evidence - legislation at least one group suspects is designed to protect Hussein Obama's elusive birth certificate from release.

The legislation, HR 985, resides in the Senate Judiciary Committee. Sovereignty Alliance has issued a "red alert" about the bill it calls "stealth legislation . . . to protect Obama from providing his birth certificate."

"It wouldn't surprise me a bit if this were one of the intended consequences of this legislation," said Joseph Farah, editor and chief executive officer of WND, who last week initiated a national billboard campaign to bring attention to the issue of Obama's missing birth certificate and what it might say about his claim to be a "natural born citizen," a status necessary to serving in the White House. "In any case, this bill puts the lie to this administration and this Congress being the most ethical and transparent in American history," Farah said. "They're very open when it comes to the secrets of previous administrations, but when it comes to their own work, it is shrouded in secrecy. Even the president's birth certificate and student records are well-guarded state secrets."

Farah launched a petition campaign several months ago that has collected nearly 400,000 names of Americans demanding answers as to Obama's eligibility. Last week he called for financial support of a new campaign to erect billboards around the country asking the simple question: "Where's the birth certificate?" In just five days, the billboard campaign has been backed by about $45,000 in donations. Likewise, Farah points out, the nearly 400,000 petitioners represents more people than live in St. Louis, Missouri. (Worldnetdaily)

• Is this bill another sneak attack, another end run to avoid the truth? Praise the Lord for Joseph Farah and those working with him to reveal this stealth bill designed to protect the real identity of our president. May both the Republican and Democratic Senators smell something rotten in this bill and continue to block its passage in the Senate. Pray that the bill dies and is quickly buried in the Senate. Pass the news of this bill along to family and friends.

"Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor that which is evil. Cling to what is good." (Romans 12:9)

3. CZAR OF THE WEEK: CASS SUNSTEIN

Obama nominee: Animals can sue people

A consumer-freedom group says Obama's nominee for "regulatory czar" is an "animal-rights zealot" who may make life difficult for hunters and meat-eaters.

Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas) has placed a hold on the nomination of legal scholar Cass Sunstein to head the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs at the Office of Budget and Management. Cornyn is worried that the Harvard professor may push an aggressive animal-rights agenda in the White House. Sunstein has argued in favor of outlawing sport hunting and meat-eating, and written that animals should be allowed to file lawsuits "with human beings as their representatives."

David Martosko with the Center for Consumer Freedom shares Cornyn's concern. Cass Sunstein "If Cass Sunstein is ultimately confirmed to be the regulatory czar, having an animal-rights zealot in that position for the first time could be problematic for Americans who love to hunt, who like seeing circuses, [who like] having animals, who like taking their kids to the zoo, who like feeding their children meat and milk at lunch time," he warns. (One News Now)

• Come against the spirit of delusion that seems to have gripped the White House, as evidenced by the credentials and morals of many of these "appointed" czars. May God have mercy . . and may He move to block this appointment. In Jesus Name.

"I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised; So shall I be saved from my enemies." (2 Samuel 22:4)

4. CZARS OF THE OBAMA UNDERWORLD

So far, czars have been installed in at least 35 posts through presidential executive orders that require no Senate approval. No Senate review, no questions. No questions, no problems.

The Obama administration has created a two-tiered government-fronted by Cabinet secretaries able to withstand public scrutiny (some of them, just barely) and then managed behind the scenes by shadow secretaries with broad powers beyond congressional reach. Bureaucratic chaos serves as a useful smokescreen to obscure the true source of policy decision-making. Energy czar Carol Browner epitomized the secretive dealings of these offices when she advised auto industry executives this month "to put nothing in writing, ever" about their meetings with her. (Michelle Malkin; New York Post)

• Excuse me, but where does the Constitution of the United States of America use the word "czar?" Who ARE these people?? Come against the spirit of lawlessness that has overtaken the White House -- an administration that seems to "do its own thing" with no heed to the rule of law. We are treading on very dangerous ground here; pray we come back home to our foundation; and pray that each "czar" be, at the very least, APPROVED by Congress before taking office. Pray!

"Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness." (I John 3:4)

5. HEAD OF CBO (CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET OFFICE) VERSUS OBAMA

The Obama administration is finally hitting its biggest roadblock in the debate over health care: the facts. Despite his best attempts to gloss over the real cost, Obama continues to lock horns with the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), whose unflattering analyses are cutting significantly into the administration's efforts to sell this as reform. Much to this administration's displeasure, the CBO continues to provide an honest assessment of the bill's price tag, which has rocketed well above $1 trillion.

Unlike other entities, the CBO is supposed to be above partisanship--but in the eyes of the Obama administration, that's a problem. For an administration so accustomed to having its way with Congress, the press, and the American people, the CBO's independence has been a powerful annoyance. Frustrated by his inability to control how CBO scores his proposal, President Obama took the unprecedented step of calling CBO Director Douglas Elmendorf into his office for a heart to heart. The White House was particularly angry over Elmendorf's estimate that the House version of "reform" would "result in a net increase in the federal budget deficit of $239 billion over the 2010-2019." Obviously Obama didn't take kindly to the CBO for interrupting his public spin with the bottom line.

But calling in Elmendorf to "discuss" these costs is highly unusual--even by liberal standards. To the best of anyone's knowledge, this is the first time an administration has tried to directly intervene in how the CBO appraises legislation. More than a few people speculated that the administration was trying to strong-arm the Office into releasing more budget-friendly numbers in their scores. There would be no other motivation for the meeting, particularly since (as both Ed Morrissey and John Fund point out), the White House has its own budget office.
If President Obama were earnestly looking for ways to cut costs, he could have picked up the phone and called the OMB, the Office of Management and Budget. Instead, he reached across the entire Executive Branch to influence a congressional appointee, a move that shows this man isn't willing to fight fair in the most expensive policy initiative of his term.

As Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell described it, "that's like asking the umpires to come up to the owner's box . . . I mean, if the CBO is to have credibility, they're the umpire." To his credit, Elmendorf said that the meeting with President Obama would not impact how the CBO scores health care reform. And to prove it, the CBO released an assessment on Friday afternoon that disputed the Democrats' claim that a few changes to the plan would result in big savings. On the contrary, the proposed cuts would only skim a measly .2% off the bill's total price.

• Praise God for ANOTHER STRONG VOICE FOR TRUTH in Washington, D.C.! And praise God that Mr. Elmendorf has not bowed to the bullying tactics of the White House, but has instead given a true report to the American people of the actual cost of this health care plan. Pray for his protection; and pray that his voice will continue to be heard here in Washington. Praise God!

"Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven." (Mt. 18:19)

6. FIRST LADY REQUIRES MORE THAN 20 ATTENDANTS

Michele Obama does not get paid to serve and she doesn't perform any official duties. But this hasn't deterred her from hiring an unprecedented number of staffers to cater to her every whim and to satisfy her every request in the midst of the Great Recession. Just think Mary Lincoln was taken to task for purchasing china for the White House during the Civil War. And Mamie Eisenhower had to shell out the salary for her personal secretary.

There has never been anyone in the White House at any time that has created such an army of staffers whose sole duties are the facilitation of the First Lady's social life. One wonders why she needs so much help, at taxpayer expense, when even Hillary, only had three; Jackie Kennedy one; Laura Bush one; and prior to Mamie Eisenhower social help came from the President's own pocket. (Canada Free Press)

• Offer praise that our friends in Canada are bringing information to us, so that we may pray "with understanding" over the burden of the Lord, and the people, for activities inside the White House. Given the history cited here, it does seem that Mrs. Obama's large staff may be an excessive burden to our taxpayers. Pray that this situation will come to the attention of members of Congress who have oversight over the White House budget. Perhaps hearings can be held, and accountability can be set in place, so that the outlay in the Office of the First Lady would be in balance with our national needs.

"When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan." (Proverbs 29:2)

NEWS FROM ISRAEL

1. U.S. TO ISRAEL: STOP EAST JERUSALEM HOUSING PROJECT
2. MITCHELL, GATES, JONES IN JERUSALEM THIS WEEK
3. PRAYER REQUESTS FROM INTERCESSORS FOR ISRAEL

1. U.S. TO ISRAEL: STOP EAST JERUSALEM HOUSING PROJECT

The controversy over settlement construction between Israel and the United States has deepened, after the US demanded Israel halt the construction of 20 Jewish apartments in East Jerusalem, according to a report from Ha'aretz. While the US has linked East Jerusalem, which was captured by Israel in the 1967 war, to the settlement issue before, the specific neighborhood demand appears to be new. According to Ha'aretz, American sources told Israel that freezing construction in East Jerusalem is no different to them than stopping illegal outposts in the West Bank (Judea and Samaria).

The Honorable Prime Minister (PM) Benjamin Netanyahu responded strongly to the specific construction stoppage demand in the weekly cabinet meeting on July 19. According to excerpts from his comments as seen on the PM's Web site, Mr. Netanyahu said, "I would like to reemphasize that the united Jerusalem is the capital of the Jewish people and of the State of Israel. Our sovereignty over it is cannot be challenged; this means that residents of Jerusalem may purchase apartments in all parts of the city."

Ha'aretz reported that the specific apartments in question are to be built on privately owned land purchased by an American Jew more than 20 years ago. The newspaper said the demand from the US came following a request from Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) amidst concerns the new Jewish buildings would negatively affect the Palestinians in the neighborhood and alter its demographics. (By Joshua Spurlock, BFP Israel Mosaic Radio, July 20, 2009) [Reported by: Bridges for Peace]

• Pray for an end to the unreasonable and unfair pressure from the US and other nations intended to control growth and development within the nation of Israel and particularly in the city of Jerusalem.

"In that day it shall be said to Jerusalem: 'Do not fear; Zion, let not your hands be weak. The LORD your God in your midst Mighty One, will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.'" (Zephaniah 3:16-17)

2. MITCHELL, GATES, JONES IN JERUSALEM THIS WEEK

The American administration has decided to send an "airlift" of senior officials to Israel for talks with the Netanyahu government: Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, special Mideast envoy George Mitchell, and National Security Advisor James Jones.

The first to visit will be Hussein Obama's special envoy to the region, who will hold a series of meetings in Jerusalem and Ramallah. Mitchell will land in Israel on July 26 as part of another effort to advance a resumption of the direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians.
Defense Secretary Gates will arrive on July 27, but will only stay in Israel for a few hours. Washington officials refused to provide details on the visit, but it is known that Gates is expected to meet with his Israeli counterpart, Ehud Barak. General Jones will arrive in Israel the next day, accompanied by a delegation of US government officials.

At this stage, the Hussein Obama administration is holding separate discussions on the two issues troubling Israel: the talks with the Palestinians and the Iranian threat. In terms of the situation in Tehran there is a tight cooperation between the two sides, but the Palestinian issue is causing tension. The settlement issue has yet to be resolved, but Washington wants it to stop making newspaper headlines.

(By Yitzhak Benhorin, Ynetnews.com, July 22, 2009) [Reported by: Bridges for Peace]

• Pray that the LORD will control these discussions and have His way in the midst of these national leaders who desire to put pressure on Israel; may they result only in that which is beneficial for Israel and not to her detriment.

"And he said: 'The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; the God of my strength, in whom I will trust; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge; my Saviour, You save me from violence.'" (2 Samuel 22:2-3)

3. PRAYER REQUESTS FROM INTERCESSORS FOR ISRAEL

The International pressure for Israel not to continue building in her own Land and in her city Jerusalem is building. Different leaders of nations are joining this call seemingly on a daily basis. We prayed that the Prime Minister and the government would be strong and courageous.

"Then answered I them, and said unto them, The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his servants will arise and build: but ye have no portion, nor right, nor memorial, in Jerusalem." (Nehemiah 2:20)

- Lord, warn the US government, especially President Obama, to not touch the apple of God's eye (Zech. 2:8)

- Thank You that the pressure is actually bringing unity in Israel as more people see how unjust and unreasonable these requests are.

- Continue to harden the hearts of the enemies of Israel.

- Strengthen the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Thank You for the stance he and his government has taken.

"When the LORD shall build up Zion, he shall appear in his glory." (Psalms 102:16)

- Let the people of Israel know that our strength is not in America, but in You and Your will for this nation. Wake up the Church to understand that "East Jerusalem" is biblical Jerusalem (everything we read that Jesus did in Jerusalem happened there).

"Praise ye the LORD: for it is good to sing praises unto our God; for it is pleasant; and praise is comely. The LORD doth build up Jerusalem: he gathers together the outcasts of Israel. He heals the broken in heart, and binds up their wounds." (Psalms 147:1-3)

THURSDAY: THE 9TH OF AV

1. THE HISTORY OF THE 9TH OF AV

This Thursday, July 30th, is the "Ninth of Av," or "Tisha Be'Av," which is considered to be the bleakest fast of the Hebrew calendar according to The Jerusalem Post. It is the commemoration of the destruction of both of Israel's Holy Temples, as well as the final destruction of Jerusalem in 135 A.D. Let us keep our Jewish brothers and sisters in prayer for the final days of their national three-week time of mourning and fasting for its Holy Temples or Beis Hamikdash in Hebrew, that began on "The Seventeenth of Tammuz," Thursday, July 9th.

A "snapshot" is given of Ninth of Av services in Jewish synagogues that day in "The Complete Family Guide to Jewish Holidays."

"It is a somber time of synagogues being draped in black, the lights dimmed, congregants sitting on the floor or on low stools. They wear no shoes, just socks or slippers. And, like mourners, they do not greet each other. In addition to the regular daily service, the Book of Lamentations is read."

Thank you for your prayers for our Jewish brothers and sisters...For more information about the Seventeenth of Tammuz and the Ninth of Av, and the other Jewish holidays, go to: http://www.aish.com/h/9av/

2. A PRAYER FOR THE 9TH OF AV

PLEASE PRAY:

1. For Israel and the peace of Jerusalem.

2. For the woman (church) to come fully into the mature man child Jesus. (Rev 12)

3. A mature church cleansed ready to rise and shine declaring the judgments of God on the wicked. (Eph. 4:13-14)

4. "So shall they fear the name of the LORD from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him. And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the LORD. As for me, this is my covenant with them, saith the LORD; My spirit that is upon thee, and my words which I have put in thy mouth, shall not depart out of thy mouth, nor out of the mouth of thy seed, nor out of the mouth of thy seed's seed, saith the LORD, from henceforth and for ever." (Is 59: 19)

This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .

LIGHT OF THE WORLD (Or Ha-O-lahm)

I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." (John 8:12)

O Lord, there is none like You. You are the light of the world. You are not selective. You give Your light to all who desire to know You. Thank You for shining Your light into my world and into my life. Thank You for changing my attitude, my thoughts, and my life -- from darkness to light.

(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)