In This Issue• URGENT - REPEALING OBAMACARE
• On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVII, No. 19-1
• Later today: Parts 2 and 3
• This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
Greetings!
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
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On Capitol Hill This Week - Volume XVII, Number 19-1
July 19 - 23, 2010
"Jesus said, 'Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in Me." (John 14:1)
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW FORMAT: PUBLISHING THIS ALERT IN THREE SECTIONS. SEPARATELY:
1. ON THE HILL
2. AT THE WHITE HOUSE
3. INTERNATIONAL NEWS
URGENT - REPEALING OBAMACARE
A note to our readers:
The following alert is repeated from last week, and is still timely today.
We are REPEATING this news to be sure that all of you take note of its message, and take action, accordingly.
DISCHARGE PETITION LAUNCHED IN HOUSE TO REPEAL OBAMACARE
Your help is requested: please contact your member now!
One of the most activist and courageous members of the United States Congress, Iowa Republican Congressman Steve King, has stepped forward to begin the arduous task of repealing Obamacare. What Congressman Steve King has done is to introduce a discharge petition, which is a very public way of knowing which member of the House of Representatives who talks about repeal of Obamacare -- and there are a lot of moderate Democrats who say they want to repeal Obamacare to the voters in their congressional districts -- will actually vote for repeal of Obamacare. This will get them on record before the November election.
Indeed, with the new rules regarding the discharge petition procedure which a previous Republican-controlled Congress installed, American citizens can check this link to the Clerk of the House's website each and every day to see if their Congressman has signed the discharge petition. Once 218 members of the House of Representatives sign the discharge petition, Speaker Nancy Pelosi must bring the legislation to repeal Obamacare up for a vote on the floor of the House of Representatives.
Already, all the members of the House Republican leadership have signed on to Congressman King's discharge petition. If all House Republicans sign the petition beginning the process of abolishing the abominable Obamacare legislation, 41 Democrats in the House will also need to sign the discharge petition. Americans need to put pressure on their congressman to sign Congressman King's discharge petition.
Americans need to follow-up each day by going to the House Clerk's link and see if their member of the House of Representatives has signed on to the discharge petition. If they have not signed it, voters should contact their relatives, friends and neighbors to ensure that these Democrats who say they are for repeal actually sign the discharge petition. (Christian Coalition of America) Read more.
- Ask the LORD God Jehovah to send forth His heavenly host so that the news of this opportunity to overturn Obamacare will go forward throughout the land. Spread the word yourselves, too -- it's time to TAKE ACTION to rescue our nation from this wicked law. Pray and act, today!!
- "Your people shall volunteer freely in the day of Your power." (Psalm 110:3 NASB)
PART ONE: ON THE HILL
1. SENATE PASSES MASSIVE WALL STREET REFORM BILL
2. KAGAN'S VIEWS SUPPORTING PARTIAL-BIRTH ABORTION REVEALED
3. SENATOR SESSIONS: "FILIBUSTER IS NOT OFF THE TABLE" ON KAGAN VOTE TUESDAY
4. JUSTICE GINSBURG: SUPREME COURT WON'T REVERSE WOE V. WADE
5. SENATE REPUBLICANS FIGHT BACK ON BERWICK APPOINTMENT
6. CONGRESSMAN PETER KING QUESTIONS GROUND ZERO MOSQUE
7. 63 MEMBERS OF CONGRESS DEFEND NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER
1. SENATE PASSES MASSIVE WALL STREET REFORM BILL
The Senate has cleared a sweeping bank regulation bill for final passage by breaking through a Republican blockade. The Senate voted 60-38 Thursday to end debate on the bill. That paved the way for Congress to send Obama a crackdown on banks and Wall Street that in some ways is tougher than what he sought. Obama is tentatively expected to sign the bill late this week. (Minnesota Post) Read more.
- Lord as the government seeks to expand its control over all portions of American life, we pray for Your intervention and mercy to return us to the freedom originally desired for this nation.
"Blessed is the man you discipline, O LORD, the man you teach from your law; you grant him relief from days of trouble, till a pit is dug for the wicked." (Psalm 94:12, 13)
2. KAGAN'S VIEWS SUPPORTING PARTIAL-BIRTH ABORTION REVEALED
New AUL Report Fully Details Elena Kagan's Partial-Birth Abortion Distortions
Americans United for Life, the pro-life legal group, has released a new comprehensive report detailing the manner in which Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan manipulated the statements of two medical organizations, resulting in keeping partial-birth abortions legal for several years more.
The report contains new information regarding Elena Kagan's role, during her time in the Clinton Administration, in pressuring the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists to change their policy statement on partial-birth abortion. "Americans United for Life Action calls for a Senate investigation into the facts surrounding Elena Kagan's amendment to the Policy Statement of the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG) on partial-birth abortion," the report, provided to LifeNews.com, reads.
- Offer praise that more and more information is now coming to light and being verified regarding this nominee for the Supreme Court. As the Senate weighs her qualifications this month - first in the Judiciary Committee and then perhaps in the full Senate - pray that they will remember that LIFE must be honored in all we do. Pray!
- "Woe to those who make unjust laws . . ." (Isaiah 10:1a)
3. SENATOR SESSIONS: "FILIBUSTER IS NOT OFF THE TABLE" ON KAGAN VOTE TUESDAY
Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL) has announced the Judiciary Committee will likely vote Tuesday on whether to forward Supreme Court Nominee Elena Kagan to the full Senate. Sessions told Human Events that "a Filibuster is not off the table" for Kagan, and is theoretically possible, if "extraordinary circumstances" are deemed warranted. At least one Republican must vote to allow Kagan out of committee, according to Judiciary rules, even if all 7 Republicans of the 19 Judiciary Senators vote against her.
Senate Judiciary Rule IV states: "If there is objection to bring the matter to a vote without further debate, a roll call vote of the Committee shall be taken, and debate shall be terminated if the motion to bring the matter to a vote without further debate passes with ten votes in the affirmative, one of which must be cast by the minority."
- Democrats have enough votes to confirm Kagan, but do they have enough to overcome a filibuster? So far, none of the 41 Republican has announced plans to vote for Kagan. This supports our theory that she can be stopped, if only Republicans will attempt a filibuster, for which Senator Sessions believes there is still hope, but he needs our help. (PrayinJesus'Name.org)
- Pray that the Spirit of the Lord would arise in the hearts of the Republicans on this committee to stand united in opposition to Kagan's nomination. If they stand united, and no Republican (i.e. minority member) approves her candidacy, this entire nomination will END tomorrow. Pray!
- "This far and no further, and here shall your proud waves be stopped!" (Job 38:11)
4. JUSTICE GINSBURG: SUPREME COURT WON'T REVERSE WOE V. WADE
Last week, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg said she is confident the Supreme Court will never overturn the Roe v. Wade decision that resulted in unlimited abortions in the United States. She said doing so would hurt poor people who supposedly have no other resource during an unplanned pregnancy.
Participating in a discussion during the Aspen Ideas Festival in Colorado, Ginsburg said the infamous decision that allowed more than 52 million abortions won't be overturned because women and society has gotten used to it. "Over a generation of young women have grown up, understanding they can control their own reproductive capacity, and in fact their life's destiny," Ginsburg said, according to a Politico report. "We will never go back to the way it once was."
In an introduction of Ginsburg for the event, pro-abortion former Justice Sandra Day O'Connor said Ginsburg is relishing adding a new member of the Supreme Court -- pro-abortion activist Elena Kagan, whom [sic] Obama has nominated to replace retiring pro-abortion Justice John Paul Stevens. (LifeNews.com)
- Please pray that Ruth Ginsburg's opinion and God's truth will not always be juxtaposed. Some may distance their hearts from God, but His will prevails, even so. Intercede for God's perfect timing in which to take America back from shrewd, godless ideologists who used gullible, unaware people and shaky, volatile circumstances to rip it from our hearts.
- Come, throw in your lot with us, they say, "we'll all share the loot." My child, don't go along with them! Stay far away from their paths. They rush to commit evil deeds. They hurry to commit murder. (Proverbs 1:14-16)
5. SENATE REPUBLICANS FIGHT BACK ON BERWICK APPOINTMENT
Senate Republicans Seek Hearing, Block Judges
If Obama thought he would get away with appointing rationing advocate Donald Berwick as the head of Medicare and Medicaid and not see a response from Senate Republicans, he should think again. They have responded aggressively by blocking judges and demanding a hearing.
Berwick is the new director of the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services who has praised British programs that ration care. The position is important because it will oversee implementation of the massive government-run health care plan that pro-life advocates say will foster rationing and also contains taxpayer funding of abortions.
Senate Republican lawmakers are upset that Berwick never received a hearing or vote before Obama went around the Senate and used a recess appointment to allow him to head the agency through the end of next year. In response, Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell blocked a request Wednesday from Democrats to approve two Obama nominees to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit.
Also, Wednesday evening, Republican members of the Senate Finance Committee demanded a public hearing on Berwick and his controversial rationing views. (LifeNews.com)
- Offer praise for the members of the United States Senate for doing all they can do to block the appointment of this wicked man to his new position. Forgive Obama for placing Berwick as the new director of the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and call forth grace into this situation. God can rule and overrule, if we intercede before His Throne of Grace with clean hands and pure hearts. Pray, too, for the deliverance of Donald Berwick, unto salvation. Amen.
- "For the eyes of the Lord are towards the righteous, and His ears attend to their prayer." (I Peter 3:12
6. CONGRESSMAN PETER KING QUESTIONS GROUND ZERO MOSQUE
Congressman Peter King (R-NY) wants to know where the money is coming from to build a proposed $100 million mosque across the street from the site of the Sept. 11 attacks in New York City. King told the Associated Press, "I think the 9/11 families have a right to know where the funding comes from; I think there are significant questions." Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who claims to be a Jew, is all giddy and excited about having the 13 story Islamic center at Ground Zero and has promised to help in the ground breaking ceremonies. The giant mosque is a project of the American Society for Muslim Advancement and the Cordoba Institute. It's director, Imam Faisel Abdul Rauf, refuses to disclose the source of the funding but wants a total tax exemption for the property. (Religious Freedom Coalition)
- Once again, offer praise for the voices that are now being stirred in Congress, unto righteousness. Pray for protection for Congressman Peter King, his family, and his staff. Pray that these hearings WILL be scheduled quickly, and that all hidden things about the funding of this mosque be revealed to the American public. Pray!
- "For the LORD will not reject his people; he will never forsake his inheritance. Judgment will again be founded on righteousness, and all the upright in heart will follow it." (Psalm 94:14.15)
7. 63 MEMBERS OF CONGRESS DEFEND NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER
CNS News reports that 63 members of the House and four senators (both Republican and Democrat), members of the Congressional Prayer Caucus, have filed an amicus brief to defend the National Day of Prayer. "The unprecedented bipartisan support for the group's amicus brief means that members of Congress are looking to ensure that the current Justice Department will vigorously defend the National Day of Prayer."
Jordan Sekulow, attorney at the American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ) which is representing the congressmen, was quoted as saying the Establishment clause of the First Amendment protects the National Day of Prayer because it is not the call of, or for, a specific religion, it is not mandated, and there are no punishments for not participating.
"That goes back to, what I think the First Amendment is about, which is an establishment of a religion in the United States. That means you don't say that it is, for instance, the Baptist Day of Prayer, just the National Day of Prayer," Sekulow said. "Anyone or no one at all can pray in the way that they want to or not pray-there is no punishment for not taking part in the National Day of Prayer." (CNS News)
- Praise God for these members, and offer your own prayer support for them, too. To see the list of their names, visit the website for the Congressional Prayer Caucus by going here.
- "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people." (Proverbs 14:34)
PART TWO: AT THE WHITE HOUSE
1. OBAMA'S ABORTION BOMBSHELL
2. ADMINISTRATION NOW DEFENDS INSURANCE MANDATE AS A TAX
3. FEDERAL RESERVE SAYS ECONOMIC RECOVERY "SLOWER THAN EXPECTED"
4. OBAMA ASKS RELIGIOUS JEW TO CURE $1 TRILLION BUDGET DISEASE
5. WHITE HOUSE ESTABLISHES NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR FISCAL REFORM
6. U.S. COURT WRONG TO STRIKE FCC INDECENCY POLICY
7. FREEDOM OF RELIGION MAY BE AT STAKE
8. OBAMA'S MUSLIM AGENDA FOR NASA: NOW YOU SEE IT; NOW YOU DON'T
1. OBAMA'S ABORTION BOMBSHELL
We hate to say, "I told you so," but after yesterday's abortion bombshell, the jig is up for Obama's pro-life charade. Yesterday, the sirens went off at the National Right to Life Committee (NRLC) when it discovered that the Obama administration has given its approval to a $160 million Pennsylvania program that will directly fund abortions under the new health care law. Using what's called "high-risk insurance pools," the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) opened its wallet to any abortion procedure that's legal in Pennsylvania.
What about the "no-federal-dollars-will-be-used-to-fund-abortions" Obama? Well, for one thing, he just validated everything FRC Action said about his sham of an Executive Order. Remember, this flimsy piece of paper that he signed back in March (without, I might add, any media present) was supposed to block HHS from sending millions to states like Pennsylvania for abortion. It was meant to be, in the words of Rep. Bart Stupak (D-Mich.), "an agreement to respect the sanctity of life on health care reform." What it turned out to be, in the words of the Washington Times, was "fool's gold."
"The ObamaCare law is full of faucets that can be opened to provide abortion subsidies," said Douglas Johnson of NRLC. "Regrettably, this is just the first." Apart from the actual insurance coverage, the law also includes $12.5 billion for community "health centers" and $6 billion for co-ops, both of which can fund abortions. Yet when FRC Action tried to block the funding from the health care bill, we were called " deceivers" by President Obama and "liars" by his allies. Now we know who the true deceivers and liars really are. And some of them, including the "pro-life Democrats" responsible for this debacle, are up for re-election. (Family Research Council)
- Lord, as we suspected, the supposed "deal" made by Congressman Stupak to halt any federally funded abortions was a ruse to obtain his vote. We repent on half of those who were duped by the deception, and ask that You find a legal challenge to these stipulations that will completely nullify the government's plans to use our taxpayer money for murdering the innocent.
- "He who works deceit shall not dwell within My house; he who tells lies shall not continue in My presence. Early I will destroy all the wicked of the land." (Psalm 101:7-8a)
2. ADMINISTRATION NOW DEFENDS INSURANCE MANDATE AS A TAX
Obama's legal staff changes stance on Obamacare and taxation
When Congress required most Americans to obtain health insurance or pay a penalty, Democrats denied that they were creating a new tax. But in court, the Obama administration and its allies now defend the requirement as an exercise of the government's "power to lay and collect taxes." And that power, they say, is even more sweeping than the federal power to regulate interstate commerce. (New York Times) Read more.
- Father God, You knew that this current administration and Democratically controlled Congress would implement oppressive taxation to finance their oppressive agenda. Remember Your weak and Your poor both in strength and spirit. We cry out to You for help. You are our only hope! Please raise up true patriots who will speak Your truth, in Your ordained "bully pulpit," and be true catalysts to help change this awful leftist agenda. May America be set free! In Jesus' Matchless Name we pray. Amen.
- "For He will deliver the needy when he cries, the poor also, and him who has no helper. He will spare the poor and needy, and will save the souls of the needy. He will redeem their life from oppression and violence." (Psalm 72: 12-14a NKJV)
3. FEDERAL RESERVE SAYS ECONOMIC RECOVERY "SLOWER THAN EXPECTED"
Federal Reserve leaders marked down their expectations for growth and inflation last month, concluding that the economic recovery is proceeding more slowly than they had thought in the spring but that the slowdown did not warrant new policy actions.
But Fed leaders did agree to explore options for supporting the economy further in case conditions worsen. (Washington Post).
- Dear Lord,
Please give relief to businesses and consumers who cannot obtain loans or mortgages in this oppressive financial atmosphere. It is our prayer that the Federal Reserve Board, the Treasury Department and Bank Examiners will have their hearts adjusted by Your Holy Spirit to review and adjust their crippling regulations that curtail bank loans and impede the U.S. economy. In Jesus' Mighty Name we pray. Amen.
- "Because of the multitude of oppressions they cry out; they cry out for help because of the arm of the mighty." (Job 35: 9 NKJV)
4. OBAMA ASKS RELIGIOUS JEW TO CURE $1 TRILLION BUDGET DISEASE
Obama has nominated Deputy Secretary of State Jacob (Jack) Lew, a religious Jew, as his new director of a budget that suffers from a budget deficit approaching $1.3 trillion. The appointment must be confirmed by the Senate, which may question Lew whether he can function while observing the Sabbath. . .
Despite his political and financial skills, he faces an uphill task, according to Republican Senator Judd Gregg. He told NBC, "I find him to be very thoughtful, very smart, very capable. He's taking on a job, however, where the numbers don't match up. This country does not have a policy which is going to lead us out of what is a disastrous financial situation." (IsraelNationalNews.com) Read more.
- Please pray for Jack Lew as he is questioned by the Senate. He will need our continual prayers if he is confirmed as Deputy Secretary of State, for he will be fighting an uphill battle against the policies of our president and of our Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
- "The law of his [the righteous] God is in his heart: none of his steps shall slide." (Psalm 37:11).
5. WHITE HOUSE ESTABLISHES NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR FISCAL REFORM
Pay and Pensions May be Targeted for Reductions
The White House has set up a National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform which will look at virtually all federal spending programs and recommend cuts in some/many/most of them - including federal pay raises and retirement benefits. Deadline for the all-or-nothing recommendations is December.
Groups representing active and retired federal and postal workers are well aware that anytime anyone contemplates ways to cut or reduce federal spending that civil service retirement benefits are always on the menu. Especially the full-COLA [ Cost of Living Adjustment] inflation catch-up that goes to the majority of current retirees who are under the old CSRS program.
Because of deflation, retirees didn't get a COLA this year and probably won't get one next January. But there is a good chance the commission will seriously consider a return-to-inflation plan that would put all federal retirees on diet-COLAs. That is an annual increase that is one or two percentage points less than the actual rate of inflation. Or delay the COLA payments until retirees hit age 62, as is the case now with the FERS retirement plan. (Source: Federal News Radio) Read more.
- Please pray that by divine intervention there will be a whittling down of this massive Government, that any Commission Congress and the White House raise up to put a check on federal spending will be in complete alignment and harmony with God's system of checks and balances. Pray that Americans come, more and more, to depend on a loving God who is all sufficient and not on a Government run amuck. Ask that these Commissions start and finish their work cautiously, being reminded that they serve the people, not randomly, but diligently, to the end that all American workers and retirees are able to receive and keep a just wage.
- "But he has cheated me, changing my wages ten times. But God has not allowed him to do me any harm." (Genesis 3:7)
6. U.S. COURT WRONG TO STRIKE FCC INDECENCY POLICY
"A ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for 2nd Circuit today declaring unconstitutional the Federal Communications Commission's indecency policy seems foolish on it face," said Patrick A. Trueman, former chief of the U.S. Department of Justice Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in Washington, D.C. "How is the American public to understand that federal judges don't know that use of the "F-word" is indecent during prime-time television?" This ruling only increases the public's belief that government is out of touch with the public and out of step with the U.S. Constitution, Trueman added.
The court found that FCC policy was, "unconstitutionally vague" and creates a "chilling effect" on broadcasters. Trueman said, "There is nothing vague about federal indecency law which has been in effect for decades and has always been though to prohibit the "F-word on primetime television. Trueman predicted that there will be no chilling effect on broadcasters if the U.S. Supreme Court upholds this bad ruling. "Broadcasters will have a green light to pump indecent language and perhaps much more into the homes of families at will."
Trueman represented the Family Research Council and Focus on the Family in filing a "friend of the court" brief in this case; Fox Television Stations v. Federal Communications Commission. He is currently heading up the War on Illegal Pornography, a national coalition effort to get federal laws against illegal adult pornography enforced. His websites include http://pornharms.com and http://www.youtube.com/user/PornHarms.
The opinion in Fox Television Stations v. Federal Communications Commission may be found here: (Family Research Council)
- Pray that the Government, specifically the FCC, will not be allowed to push back good legislation when it comes to family entertainment and prime time rulings. Unsuspecting children do not need the "f" word thrown at them like a pitch out of nowhere. Ask that our federal indecency laws, which have been in effect for decades, be upheld and honored. Make intercession for the Holy Spirit of Wisdom to invade the hearts of those who feel the need to speak offensively to make a point.
- "But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness." (James 3:17-18)
7. FREEDOM OF RELIGION MAY BE AT STAKE
Hillary Clinton, in a speech at Georgetown University, talked about "freedom of worship" being a priority of the administration. And this was no slip of the tongue. As Christianity Today reported, the President has used the term in several speeches. The State Department claims the two terms-"freedom of worship" and "freedom of religion"-are interchangeable.
But that's nonsense.
As Nina Shea at Freedom House told CT, mere freedom of worship "excludes the right to raise your children in your faith . . . the right to . . . elect your religious leaders, to carry out charitable activities, to evangelize, [and] to have religious education or seminary training."
Even the Chinese allow freedom of worship. But if a Chinese pastor speaks out on political or cultural issues, prison, or worse, awaits him.
And, my friends, the same fate could await Christians here if we allow the government to head down this road. (Chuck Colson; Breakpoint) Read more.
- Intercede now for freedom of religion, as "freedom to worship privately" could take us back centuries! Ask that clear-cut language will define what is really being said in the speeches our officials are giving and that none will be allowed to use obscure language to manipulate thought, thereby controlling the American people. Thank the Father that all freedom comes from Him alone. Pray and intercede that He will give us heightened awareness and conviction to step up and protect our freedom of religion as is.
- He said to his disciples, "The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields." (Matthew 9:37-38)
8. OBAMA'S MUSLIM AGENDA FOR NASA: NOW YOU SEE IT; NOW YOU DON'T
The Astronaut Gets Thrown Under The Bus
As we reported recently, NASA Administrator Charles Bolden made headlines when he told Al Jazeera TV last month that Obama wanted him to use his position to make Muslim nations feel good about their contributions to science. (Sadly, as a guest on the Bauer & Rose show noted, Islam's most recent contribution to "science" appears to be really effective roadside bombs.) But the Al Jazeera appearance wasn't the first time Bolden had made that claim.
And when the interview made headlines, the White House actually defended Bolden's remarks, stating "The President has always said that he wants NASA to engage with the world's best scientists and engineers as we work together to push the boundaries of exploration. Meeting that mandate requires NASA to partner with countries around the world like Russia and Japan, as well as collaboration with Israel and with many Muslim-majority countries."
However, White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs seemingly threw Bolden under the bus Monday, saying, "That was not his task and that's not the task of NASA." When asked by reporters if Bolden misspoke, Gibbs answered, "I think so." Confused yet? Don't worry, folks, this is perfectly clear.
When the head of NASA, a former astronaut and retired Marine Major General, said that President Obama told him to reach out to Muslims, he just "misspoke" - twice. And his trip to Cairo, Egypt, where he spoke to Al Jazeera and which just happened to coincide with the one-year anniversary of Obama's much-hyped speech at Cairo University? That was no doubt a personal vacation and not official business, because we all know what a booming space industry Egypt has.
Like so much from the Obama White House, this latest explanation doesn't pass the straight face test. It is truly regrettable that a good man like Charles Bolden is getting caught up in this administration's politically correct nonsense. (Gary Bauer)
- Please pray for NASA head Charles Bolden, for his honesty is causing him trouble politically. One wonders what was the conversation between Bolden and the president. And where in the Constitution describing the duties of the president is there a phrase that Americans are required to make the Moslems feel good about themselves? Pray for truthfulness to be a priority in the Executive branch of our federal government. Ask the Lord to lead Mr. Bolden into His paths of righteousness.
- "Where the word of the king is, there is power, and who may say unto him,'What doest thou?' (Ecclesiastes 8:4)
PART THREE: INTERNATIONAL NEWS
1. U.S. FEARS GULF SEABED OIL SEEPAGE NEAR STRICKEN BP WELL
2. WASHINGTON POST PUBLISHES ARTICLE ON "TOP SECRET AMERICA"
3. OBAMA ADMINISTRATION INTERFERING WITH VOTE ON CONSTITUTION IN KENYA
4. IRAN DEFECTOR: HUGE IRANIAN ATTACK ON ISRAEL INEVITABLE
5. MEDVEDEV: IRAN NEARING POSSESSION OF NUCLEAR BOMB
6. U.S. OFFICIAL: "WE WILL CONTINUE TO SHIELD ISRAEL"
7. ISRAEL: IRON DOME TEST IN SOUTH SUCCESSFUL
8. ISRAEL'S SECRET NEW WEAPON
9. MUBARAK, NETANYAHU MEET IN CAIRO TO DISCUSS PEACE PROCESS
10. NETANYAHU: PEACE DEAL POSSIBLE WITHIN ONE YEAR
1. U.S. FEARS GULF SEABED OIL SEEPAGE NEAR STRICKEN BP WELL
The US fears oil may be seeping from the ocean floor near the stricken Gulf of Mexico oil well. The official in charge of the clean-up, Thad Allen, said if a substance leaking from the seabed was found to be methane this might mean oil was also leaking. He ordered BP to submit a plan to reopen the capped well if the seepage was confirmed, so that oil could be funnelled to the surface. And in a letter to BP chief managing director Bob Dudley, Adm Allen said: "Given the current observations . . . including the detected seep a distance from the well and undetermined anomalies at the well head, monitoring of the seabed is of paramount importance.
But BP says it would take three days to start this process. During this time, the daily leakage of tens of thousands of barrels of oil, which had been capped last Thursday, could resume. BP had hoped the cap could stay in place until relief wells stopped the leak for good. But with pressure readings from within the well lower than expected, scientists had raised concerns that oil could be leaking into the surrounding undersea bedrock. (BBC) Read more.
- This story changes day by day; and the public is probably only being told half the information that is available. In times like these, praise the Lord that He has given us His Spirit, through whom we can intercede. Lift up all the officials involved in this unfolding disaster, that they be given wisdom to know how to proceed, one step at a time. Pray!
- "We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express." (Romans 8:26)
2. WASHINGTON POST PUBLISHES ARTICLE ON "TOP SECRET AMERICA"
The top-secret world the government created in response to the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, has become so large, so unwieldy and so secretive that no one knows how much it costs, how many people it employs, how many programs exist within it or exactly how many agencies duplicate work.
Washington Post reporters Dana Priest and William M. Arkin spent two years on their investigation, and the resulting series that began today at washingtonpost.com/topsecretamerica.
Visit the site for an innovative online reading experience, accompanied by a searchable database of government organizations and corporate contractors that do top-secret work; details on what that work entails; and the cities and states where that work is done. (Washington Post)
For more information, go here.
- Gracious Heavenly Father. Only You knew who were behind the terrorist attacks when they were happening real time on Tuesday, September, 2001. And, only You know the real truth behind the murderous attacks and what has been implemented to safeguard our nation since then. Please let this investigative reporting series called "'TOP SECRET AMERICA" be a comforting and truthful source for information about post 9/11 activities. May it reveal the truth in a way that will be helpful to America and her people and not jeapordize safeguards now set in place to protect our people. Please continue to protect America for Your glory. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen.
- "For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light." (Luke 8:17 NKJV)
3. OBAMA ADMINISTRATION INTERFERING WITH VOTE ON CONSTITUTION IN KENYA
Three Members of Congress Call for an Investigation
U.S. financial and rhetorical support for the Kenyan constitution has some members of Congress calling for an investigation. In a letter to Department of State officials and others, Reps. Chris Smith of New Jersey, Darrell Issa of California and Ileana Ros-Lehtinen of Florida raised questions about U.S. lobbying in Kenya -- specifically, the possibility that the Obama administration may have violated federal law in doing so.
And, as if the West's exporting of its abortion license to Kenya -- a nation known for growing, enthusiastic Catholic and other Christian presences -- weren't alarming enough, the proposed constitution would also create a legal system within a legal system -- codifying the strengthening of sharia by making it apply to every Muslim Kenyan. As Eric Rassbach of the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty points out: "People are subjected to these tribunals merely by virtue of what religious community they were born into, and they have no way of opting out." (Townhall.com) Read more.
- Stand in repentance that our nation would interfere with the governing actions of any other sovereign state, much less Kenya. No matter that Obama and Odinga are cousins; national loyalty must come first. Pray that these hearings will take place, and that anything illegal (if so) be found and brought to justice. Pray!
- O LORD, the God who avenges,
O God who avenges, shine forth.
Rise up, O Judge of the earth;
pay back to the proud what they deserve. (Psalm 94:1,2)
4. IRAN DEFECTOR: HUGE IRANIAN ATTACK ON ISRAEL INEVITABLE
A former member of Iran's elite Revolutionary Guard who defected to the United States told a news conference called to promote his book on Friday [July 9] that it's only a matter of time until Iran carries out a massive attack on Israeli, European and Gulf targets.
Speaking at an event sponsored by a pro-Israel think-tank in Washington, the defector (who goes by a pseudonym) called the Obama administration "naive" for misinterpreting how American overtures are seen as a sign of weakness. He predicted the Iranians will carry out "the most horrendous suicide bombing in human history-[attacking] Israel, European capitals, and [the] Gulf region at the same time."
The former Iranian agent spied on Iran for the US for ten years before fleeing to America after the 9/11 attacks. (By The Media Line, July 11, 2010)
- Pray that the Lord will glorify Himself by blatantly protecting Israel from such an attack. Pray for the protection of this man as he gives the world an inside picture of a terrorist state.
- "The Lord will cause your enemies who rise against you to be defeated before your face; they shall come out against you one way and flee before you seven ways." (Psalm 28:2)
[Reported by Bridges for Peace]
5. MEDVEDEV: IRAN NEARING POSSESSION OF NUCLEAR BOMB
Russian President Medvedev said on Monday [July 12] that Iran is approaching the capability to create a nuclear bomb. The Russian's comments are being spun in the West as confirmation that Medvedev is on-board with efforts to prevent Iran from reaching that goal.
After saying that "it is obvious Iran is moving closer to possessing the potential which in principle could be used for the creation of nuclear weapons," Medvedev characterized the Iranian march to nuclearization by saying only that, "Iran is not acting in the best way." He remains tepid on the matter of sanctions, which he says "do not have the desired results."
For the moment, Medvedev is calling for "patience, and the speediest resumption of productive dialogue with Tehran." (By The Media Line, July 13, 2010)
- Pray that the world community, and particularly the Obama administration, will wake up to the reality of the danger a nuclear Iran actually presents. Pray that the Lord will direct the steps of the nations as they deal with this threat.
- "The Lord is righteous in all His ways, gracious in all His works. The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him; He also will hear their cry and save them. The Lord preserves all who love Him, but all the wicked He will destroy." (Psalm 145:17-20)
[Reported by Bridges for Peace]
6. U.S. OFFICIAL: "WE WILL CONTINUE TO SHIELD ISRAEL"
The United States will continue to maintain Israel's military advantage as well as protect it in the diplomatic arena, U.S. ambassador to the United Nations Susan Rice said Wednesday, adding that the American commitment to Israel's security was "not negotiable." Speaking during a reception for Israeli Ambassadors Gabriela Shalev and Daniel Carmon, held by the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations in New York, Rice said the "United States of America remains fully and firmly committed to the peace and security of the State of Israel." "That commitment spans generations and political parties. It is not negotiable, and it never will be," Rice added, saying the United States would "continue to strengthen Israel's qualitative military advantage so that Israel can always defend itself, by itself, against any threat or possible combination of threats." (Ha'aretz)
- In this election year, when one might wonder why certain statements are made regarding any issue, we can nonetheless praise the Lord for Ambassador's Rice's words. Pray that, if the time comes that we must stand beside Israel as an ally, these words would prove true. Pray!
- Where the word of the king is, there is power, and who may say unto him,'What doest thou?' (Eccl. 8:4)
7. ISRAEL: IRON DOME TEST IN SOUTH SUCCESSFUL
Israel inched a step closer on Wednesday to deploying a missile defense system along the border with the Gaza Strip after the Iron Dome successfully intercepted a number of missile barrages in tests held in southern Israel this week.
The Iron Dome is now slated to become operational and deployed along the Gaza border in the coming weeks.
The Iron Dome is supposed to be capable of intercepting all of the short-range rockets in fired by Hamas in the Gaza Strip and Hizbullah in Southern Lebanon. The Iron Dome uses an advanced radar - made by Elta - that locates and tracks the rocket that is then intercepted by a kinetic missile interceptor. (Jerusalem Post) Read more.
- Even as we rejoice with the Israelis over the success of this new defense system, we rejoice even more, knowing that it is the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob who, in the end, will fight to defend their land. Amen.
- "No weapon forged against thee will prosper." (Isaiah 54:17)
8. ISRAEL'S SECRET NEW WEAPON
Imagine for a moment what the battlefield will look like in the future: unmanned planes flying through the air, robots fighting on the ground, smart missiles hunting down targets. Now imagine that none of this can be detected on radar screens. It may sound fictional, but it's happening.
An Israeli company called Nanoflight is currently developing a special paint that makes drones, missiles, or war craft simply disappear. Or, to be more precise, they become very difficult to detect. The critical stage in developing the paint, which was developed in a nanotechnology lab, has recently concluded, and a successful test run was conducted this week.
For the test run, a thin layer of the material was painted on dummy missiles, and radar waves aimed at them had a difficult time registering them. The paint particles don't make the missile's detection on the radar disappear completely, but make it exceedingly difficult to positively identify the object as a missile. (By Ofer Petersburg, Ynetnews, July 13, 2010) Read more.
- Praise the Lord for another amazing innovation from Israeli scientists. Pray that it will be used to its full potential, both for military and civilian purposes, providing further protection for Israel to the glory of the Lord of Hosts.
- "And it happened, when all our enemies heard of it, and all the nations around us saw these things, that they were very disheartened in their own eyes; for they perceived that this work was done by our God." (Nehemiah 6:8) [Reported by Bridges for Peace]
9. MUBARAK, NETANYAHU MEET IN CAIRO TO DISCUSS PEACE PROCESS
Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu and Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak met in Cairo Sunday to discuss the progress of peace talks with the Palestinians. The two were expected to talk about removing obstacles to peace in the region. Mubarak also met earlier in the day with Palestinian Authority (PA) chairman Mahmoud Abbas and US peace envoy George Mitchell to discuss different ways to advance the peace process. (Jerusalem Post) Read more.
- The world certainly cannot accuse Israel of not working determinedly to achieve peace in the Middle East with this recent set of meetings between P.M. Netanyahu and other leaders in that region. Pray against any lies concocted to discredit Israel in the UN or in other organizations. Bibi probably knows that no lasting peace will be established in the region until the Prince of Peace returns to set up His kingdom. However, work must be done until the return of Jesus. Continue to pray for wisdom and discernment for Netanyahu as he tries to negotiate peace for Israel and its neighbors.
- "Depart from evil, and do good: seek peace, and pursue it." (Psalm 34:14)
10. NETANYAHU: PEACE DEAL POSSIBLE WITHIN ONE YEAR
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday [July 8] said reaching a peace agreement with the Palestinians, like the one between Israel and Egypt, is possible within a year if Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas engages him in direct peace talks that resolve the entire conflict.
In comments to the Council on Foreign Relations posted on the Prime Minister's Office Web site, when asked if he thought a peace agreement was possible within a year, Netanyahu said, "Yes, I do . . . If it's up to me, we'll have an agreement. I can't speak for [Abbas], but I won't do what others do to me, and I won't do what some of my colleagues do to President Abbas: I won't rule out the possibility of leadership."
In his comments to the Council on Foreign Relations, Netanyahu decried a piecemeal approach to peace and emphasized the need for Abbas to show real leadership for peace. As for the parameters of a peace deal, Netanyahu was adamant on the need for solid security and recognition of Israel verbally and publicly from the Palestinian leadership to their people, as well as to declare the end of the conflict and claims.
Netanyahu said, "The real engine of the conflict is the refusal, the persistent refusal, to recognize the Jewish state in any boundary, and unless this is addressed, it continues to take hold in the Palestinian psyche and it doesn't get resolved. And admittedly, if leaders begin to talk in this way, it doesn't guarantee that there will be a change of heart, but it's a necessary precondition for such a change. Otherwise, it will never happen."
Netanyahu also said that the US could help the process not only in moderating talks but also with issues like security and the cost for desalinated water in the region. (By Joshua Spurlock, BFP Israel Mosaic Radio, July 11, 2010)
- Praise God for Prime Minister Netanyahu's insistence that real talks cannot be held until all parties have recognized the right of Israel to exist as a Jewish state in the region. Pray that he will remain steadfast in this conviction, gaining the support of the international community in the process.
- "My soul has dwelt too long with one who hates peace. I am for peace; but when I speak, they are for war." (Psalm 120: 6-7) [Reported by Bridges for Peace]
This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
GOD OF MY PRAISE (Ehlohay T'heelahtee)
"Do not keep silent, O God of my praise." (Psalm 109:1)
O God, how I praise You for the answers that You give to my prayers. Sometimes, yes, there is silence and I want to ask why. At these times, help me to hang on to Your every promise, and help me believe in my heart that You will never leave me, You will never forsake me, and You will answer my prayers. I will wait on You, God of my praise.
"Yes, LORD, walking in the way of your laws, we wait for you; your name and renown are the desire of our hearts." (Isaiah 26:8)
(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)
