In This Issue• On Capitol Hill This Week; LIBYA
• On Capitol Hill This Week; INTERNATIONAL NEWS
• On Capitol Hill This Week; ISRAEL
• This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
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On Capitol Hill This Week - Volume XVIII, Number 9a
March 7 - 11, 2011
March 7 - 11, 2011
INTERNATIONAL ISSUES
". . . He shall bring forth the capstone With shouts of 'Grace, grace to it!' " (Zechariah 4:7)
FOCUS ON LIBYA
1. "CLAMPDOWN ON LIBYA REBELS LIKE ISRAEL'S CRACKDOWN ON GAZA"
2. AMERICA'S SECRET PLAN TO ARM LIBYA'S REBELS
3. REPORT: QADDIFI OFFERED RESIGNATION FOR SECURITY
1. "CLAMPDOWN ON LIBYA REBELS LIKE ISRAEL'S CRACKDOWN ON GAZA"
Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi on Monday likened the clampdown on dissidents in his country to what he called Israel's crackdown of Al Qaida terrorists in the Gaza Strip. Gaddafi, in an interview with France 24 television station said "Even the Israelis in Gaza, when they moved into the Gaza strip, they moved in with tanks to fight such extremists. It's the same thing here!" "We have small armed groups who are fighting us. We did not use force from the outset. Armed units of the Libyan army have had to fight small armed Al Qaida bands. That is what's happened," he added. (Jerusalem Post)
- Tear down the lies being stated about Israeli policy in the context of the disaster now unfolding in Libya. Pray for the safety of all dissidents on the land.
- " . . . for he (the devil) he is a liar and the father of lies." (John 8:44)
2. AMERICA'S SECRET PLAN TO ARM LIBYA'S REBELS
Desperate to avoid US military involvement in Libya in the event of a prolonged struggle between the Gaddafi regime and its opponents, the Americans have asked Saudi Arabia if it can supply weapons to the rebels in Benghazi. The Saudi Kingdom, already facing a "day of rage" from its 10 per cent Shia Muslim community on Friday, with a ban on all demonstrations, has so far failed to respond to Washington's highly classified request, although King Abdullah personally loathes the Libyan leader, who tried to assassinate him just over a year ago. (The Independent)
- Elsewhere in today's report, you will see that the Saudis already really have their hands full, trying to save their own kingdom. Pray that the Obama administration will use great wisdom in seeking assistance from allied nations as we try to help those in Libya who are fighting for their own freedom.
- "Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth." (I Timothy 2:1 - 4 NKJV)
3. REPORT: QADDIFI OFFERED RESIGNATION FOR SECURITY
Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi will resign and leave the country on condition that he and his family receive guarantees they will not be harmed, the London-based al-Sharq al-Awsat reported Monday. No official confirmation has been given. The report cites "reliable" Libyan sources in Benghazi as saying that Gaddafi vowed to announce his resignation and the transfer of authority to rebels in Benghazi before his parliament if his security, his family's security, and his funds are preserved. (YnetNews)
- Would this be "the way of escape" for the people of Libya, who only desire to throw off the yoke of tyranny? If there is any truth to this report, then please interecede that this transition will proceed with no further bloodshed, and that the nation of Libya will arise to a new day of freedom and "democracy."
- "Thy Kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven." (Matthew 6:10)
On Capitol Hill This Week; INTERNATIONAL NEWS
1. GATES ON URGENT MISSION TO CAIRO
2. EGYPT'S REVOLUTION WAS ISLAMIC - NOT DEMOCRATIC
3. IRAN TO BUILD PERMANENT NAVAL BASE IN SYRIA
4. IRAN TRYING TO BUY NUCLEAR MISSILE PARTS
5. IRAN THREATENS SAUDI ARABIA
6. SAUDI ARABIA - THE LAST DOMINO
7. RUSSIA SENDING CRUISE MISSILES TO SYRIA AMID REGIONAL UNREST
8. WIKILEAKS REVEAL OBAMA TIES TO MIDDLE EAST TURMOIL
9. TERROR ATTACK ON OUR TROOPS
10. ONLY CHRISTIAN PAKISTANI CABINET MEMBER ASSASSINATED
1. GATES ON URGENT MISSION TO CAIRO AS MILITARY LEADERS LOSE GRIP
Obama Saturday, March 5, asked Defense Secretary Robert Gates to set out for Cairo on an emergency mission to help Egypt's military rulers regain control of a situation which is slipping into the hands of the increasingly radicalized protesters, debkafile reports. Friday, thousands of protesters seized control of Egyptian security police (Mahabis Namn El Dawla) headquarters, shutting down its operations across the country. Iran is transmitting large sums to the Moslem Brotherhood through Hamas. (DebkaFile) Read more.
- How nice of our president to publicly be concerned about the fate of Egypt: that the nation not fall into the hands of the Muslim Brotherhood! Pray for the citizens of Egypt that they are not hoodwinked into believing that their youth are using the right tactics to attack the security police. Order must be maintained. Pray equally for the maintaining of order in these United States, for there are those who want the same loss of law and order here. Ask the Holy Spirit to direct Secretary Robert Gates as he speaks with the Egyptians about their country. It is the Lord's plan for Egypt that is needed, not Obama's.
- "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him." (James 1:5)
2. EGYPT'S REVOLUTION WAS ISLAMIC - NOT DEMOCRATIC
The leader of Egypt's Moslem Brotherhood on Sunday clarified that the toppling of President Hosni Mubarak and his regime was driven primarily by a desire to return Egypt to its Islamic roots, and not by a Western ideal of democracy. Speaking from Iran, where he is attending the International Conference on Islamic Unity, Kamal Helbawi stressed the Islamic nature of the Egyptian uprising, and criticized international efforts to make the revolution look like a move toward the West and its principles.
"People of Egypt are seeking human dignity, social justice, and their human rights none of which has any contradiction with Islamic principles," Helbawi told Iran's IRNA news agency. He added that the people's demands stemmed from their interest in Islam.
Regarding the Israel-Egypt peace treaty, Helbawi insisted, "We cannot respect such agreements and won't approve of them." If the Brotherhood comes to power, or has any significant influence over the next Egyptian government, Helbawi reiterated that it would "annul the shameful Camp David Accords." (Israel Today News; 2/20/11)
- Please pray that the reality of this situation will be revealed to the western world.
- "And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive." (Matthew 21:22)
3. IRAN TO BUILD PERMANENT NAVAL BASE IN SYRIA
Just two days after two Iranian warships reached the Syrian port of Latakia via the Suez Canal, an Iranian-Syrian naval cooperation accord was signed Friday, Feb. 25 providing for Iran to build its first Mediterranean naval base at the Syrian port, debkafile's sources reveal. It will include a large Iranian Revolutionary Guards weapons depot, anchorage for large warships and submarines and logistical infrastructure for incoming Iranian troops. The Syrian Navy chief said the move would "cripple Israel." (DEBKAfile) Read more.
- Russia also contributed materials to the building of this naval base, so we can see the preparations for Gog and Magog against Israel. But like Haman, both Iran and Russia are marching towards their own gallows! Defense Minister of Israel Echud Barak made light of the threat posed by this naval base. Pray for his removal from Netanyahu's cabinet, for Barak is causing the Prime Minister problems in defending the nation. Pray against the completion of this naval base in Syria; perhaps the Lord will intervene with some unexpected natural disaster or unknown sea floor terrain. Continue to pray for the protection of Israel's borders and for a clear USA policy to help our friends in Israel.
- "But the wicked are like the troubled sea when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt." (Isaiah 57:20)
4. IRAN TRYING TO BUY NUCLEAR MISSILE PARTS
OSLO-Iran has been trying without success to obtain Norwegian missile technology for possible use in delivering nuclear weapons, Norway's security chief said on Monday [February 28]. Janne Kristiansen, general director of the Norwegian Police Security Service, told Reuters Iran had approached small Norwegian companies that sell "special components that can be used in weapons of mass destruction, for building missiles."
Iranian efforts the past year, she said, targeted dual-use technology suitable for civilian products as well as advanced missiles like those that Norwegian contractor Kongsberg Defense Systems makes for several NATO navies and air forces. Kristiansen said no Norwegian firms had been prosecuted because investigators lacked proof of intent to violate export controls or United Nations sanctions banning the sale of nuclear weapons-related technology to Iran. When asked if some firms have intentionally skirted regulations, she said: "Some do."
Timothy Moore, a spokesman for the U.S. embassy in Norway, declined to say whether the United States was involved in disclosing the Iranian attempts. "We have known for some time that Iran has been pursuing high technology around the world, and we are naturally concerned, and that's why we work closely with Norway and our other European partners," he said. (Reuters)
- Praise God that this Norwegian police agency was alert and stepped in to cut off the sale of sensitive materials. Pray that other countries and companies will follow suit and not give in to greed.
- "Getting treasures by a lying tongue is the fleeting fantasy of those who seek death." (Proverbs 21:6) [Reported by: Bridges for Peace]
5. IRAN THREATENS SAUDI ARABIA
First Day of Anger Planned for Friday, March 11th
A senior Iranian figure close to Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad warned Riyadh Wednesday, March 2, against launching preventive security measures against, or cracking down on, the kingdom's two million Shiites who live and work in the oil regions of the east. Meanwhile, the Saudis are bracing for first protest ahead of the Day of Anger planned in Saudi Arabia for March 11.
The warning to Riyadh came from Iranian parliament Mohammed Dehgan, one of the closest and most influential members of the Ahmadinejad circle. It was couched in stark and brutal terms: "The Saudi leadership should know that the Saudi people have become vigilant and do not allow the rulers of the country to commit any possible crime against them," said Dehqan. "Saudi Arabia should account for the suppressions of the Shiite and Sunni people in the country for numerous years."
He went on to threaten that Saudi Arabia, whose Shiite minority accounted for at least 15 percent of its population, could be the next target of the revolution engulfing the Arab world. The Iranian lawmaker went on to warn Saudi Arabia against interfering in the course of events in Bahrain and Yemen.
- We seem to be witnessing a daily unfolding of "all hell" breaking out throughout the Middle East. In this latest episode, the Saudis consider Iran's actions as unprecedented interference in their own domestic affairs. Tempers are clearly hot now; pray for the protection of all who live in Saudi Arabia and for all oil interests there. This could be big.
- " . . . So then we must not sleep as the rest, but must stay alert and sober . . ." (I Thess. 5:6)
6. SAUDI ARABIA - THE LAST DOMINO
Saudis mobilize thousands of troops to quell growing revolt
Oil could hit $200 when revolution breaks out in Saudi Arabia
Political protests are scheduled on March 11 and March 20 in Saudi Arabia. In an attempt to blunt the force of the demonstrations, Saudi security forces arrested Tawfiq al- Amir, a prominent Shi'ite cleric from the Eastern Province, after delivering a sermon calling for the transformation of the kingdom into a constitutional monarchy. Twenty percent of the Saudi population are Shi'ite, and a majority in Bahrain. (Iran is a Shi'ite nation)
In testimony before the Senate Appropriations Committee on March 1, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton acknowledged that Iran is deeply involved in all the anti-regime protests and movements from Egypt to Yemen to Bahrain and beyond. "Either directly or through proxies, they are constantly trying to influence events. They have a very active diplomatic foreign policy outreach," Clinton said.
Then Clinton spoke a real paradox when telling the House of Representatives and the Senate that Iran's increased power means that the US should continue to arm and fund Iran's allies (Hamas and Hezbollah) and support the so-called democratic forces that are allied with Iran.
The only way to curb Iran's influence in the region and strike a major blow against its rising Shi'ite-Sunni jihadist alliance is to actively support the pro-democracy regime opponents in Iran's Green Movement. The only chance of preventing Iran from plunging the region into war and bloodshed is if the regime is overthrown.
- We need to intercede for Saudi Arabia to stand and not fall. It is all over for the Western world if the Saudi kingdom collapses. Pray for regime change in Iran. Raise up a massive prayer assault over the Saudi Peninsula, asking GOD to sustain the current administration and to keep Iran from overwhelming this vast nation. Pray for a miracle! Pray!
- "When the enemy comes in like a flood, the spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him." (Isaiah 59:19)
7. RUSSIA SENDING CRUISE MISSILES TO SYRIA AMID REGIONAL UNREST
A sale of cruise missiles to Syria that was negotiated in 2007 but only revealed by Russia last year is going forward despite the regional unrest and Western fears concerning the end-use of the weapons being sold. Hope by the United States and Israel that Moscow would abrogate the contract because of the Middle East turmoil dissipated when Russian Defense Minister Anatoly Serdyukov reported that the sale is "in the implementation stage."
Both nations [Israel and the US] are particularly concerned that the sophisticated anti-ship cruise missiles will end up on the hands of Hizbullah which has been receiving large quantities of other missiles from Iran through Syria.
The Hizbullah arsenal is now estimated to contain 60,000 missiles. Syria will receive 72 Yakhont cruise missiles in the [US] $300 million deal. Some analysts see the Russian sale as being rooted in business rather than ideology as the Russians stand to lose about [US] $10 billion in arms sales to the Middle East because of the wave of regimes being toppled. Russia also has a sale of fighter jets under contract with Syria.
Syria and Iran have also entered a new defense agreement: the two navies will "cooperate in training issues and the exchange of personnel," according to the IRNA news agency. (By The Media Line, February 27, 2011)
- Only God can deliver Israel from her enemies. Pray that Israel will put their hope in God as their only true help.
- "Keep me as the apple of Your eye; hide me under the shadow of Your wings, from the wicked who oppress me, from my deadly enemies who surround me." (Ps. 17:8-9)
[Reported by: Bridges for Peace}
8. WIKILEAKS REVEAL OBAMA TIES TO MIDDLE EAST TURMOIL
Events are currently unfolding in the Middle East are a consequence of the behind-the-scenes work of Islamic advocates within the Administration.
According to reports issued by NewsRealBlog, RedState, and LaborUnionReport, secret documents released by Wikileaks indicate that the United States government has been in the process of planning social and political upheaval in the Middle East for at least 2 years--beginning during the waning days of the Bush Administration and continuing under Obama. The goal was to push moderate Moslem dictators out the door in countries such as Egypt, while advocating so-called 'democracy' which would then insure the rise of Muslim Brotherhood-supported Islamists to fill the power-gap.
How would such a grand scheme be accomplished?
The reports expose a consortium of Leftwing organizations, Islamic groups, labor unions, and Obama-friendly corporations which would organize and fund a 'youth movement' in certain areas around the Middle East which would then take to the streets in protest against current governments.
Some of the corporations involved are Google, YouTube, MSNBC, Facebook, National Geographic, M-TV, and Pepsi. In addition, the U.S. State Department, Columbia Law School, and various Islamic extremist groups such as the Moslem Brotherhood, CAIR, and others are central to the plot.
The goal is to set in motion a domino effect, hoping that regime-change in Eqypt would spread to other nations in the Middle East, and eventually destabilize Europe, and ultimately, the United States. (Examiner) Read more.
- Fall on your knees and repent to the Lord for allowing such a duplicitous leader to undermine the land that God has so richly blessed: our own USA! Cry out for His mercy as we ask for an opportunity to set things right with the Lord and with the youth of the world, including our own. Who are these people within the administration that so easily betray our own nation? Pray that the Lord will reveal their identities, in addition to our president, before the hour is too late. Rise up, o men of God, and put on your full armor of God!
- "Get up, and sanctify the people and say,' Sanctify yourselves for tomorrow, because thus says the Lord God of Israel: ' There is an accursed thing in your midst, O Israel; you cannot stand before your enemies until you take away the accursed thing from among you." (Joshua 7:13) -
9. TERROR ATTACK ON OUR TROOPS
This week a Moslem from Kosovo walked onto a bus carrying US airmen at an airport in Germany, and while screaming "Allah Akbar!" he killed two airmen and wounded two others. It is reported that he was a civilian employee of the air base -- otherwise he would not have had access to the bus. Obama's statement about the attack was very much like the statement he made when Major Hassan killed 13 fellow soldiers in the Ft. Hood massacre. Obama made no mention of terror. He opened his remarks by referring to the Islamic attack on unarmed airmen as "a tragic event that took place earlier today in Frankfurt, Germany." It took seven weeks for the White House to admit that Major Hassan, who also screamed Allah Akbar while killing unarmed servicemen and women, was indeed a terrorist. The final report on Hassan never mentioned that he was a Muslim. We can expect the same from the White House concerning this attack. (Religious Freedom Coalition)
- We pray that our American Goverment will be able to detect Jihadists at our military basis and prevent Jihadists from coming in to our country. We pray that God will protect us from Terrorist cells hidden here in the U.S. and our military basis around the world. Prayer for the leaders of our country to lead us into peace and not war. We pray for America that America will become a righteous nation, respected and admired by all other Nations. Pray that Jihadists will lay down their arms to be enlightened and to know the peace of God. We pray for all people around the world that they will come to the saving knowledge that God is Love. (Its God's love that saved us).
- 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)
10. ONLY CHRISTIAN PAKISTANI CABINET MEMBER ASSASSINATED
Shahbaz Bhatti, who was the minister of religious minorities, was the second high-level Pakistani government official to be assassinated in the past two months. Both officials had opposed Pakistan's "blasphemy" laws that impose the death penalty for insulting Islam. He had been assigned police guards, but did not use them because it was a bodyguard who had killed the other official, Punjab province Governor Salman Taseer. Tens of thousands of Moslems flooded the streets to celebrate the murder of Taseer, showing the true nature of this "moderate" Islamic nation that is an ally of the United States.
- Pray for the safety of all Christians in the nation of Pakistan. Pray, too, about the 150 nuclear nuclear weapons it may have in its arsenal. The United States and Europe should take concrete steps to denuclearize Pakistan by any means needed.
- "He will give His angels charge over you, to guard you in all your ways." (Ps. 91:11)
On Capitol Hill This Week; ISRAEL
NEWS FROM ISRAEL
1. OBAMA: ISRAEL SHOULDN'T BE AFRAID OF THE CHANGES IN MIDEAST
2. NETANYAHU PRAISES POPE FOR CLEARING JEWS OF JESUS' DEATH
3. IMMEDIATE ELECTIONS IN ARAB COUNTRIES COULD BRING EXTREMISTS TO POWER
4. EGYPT'S MOUSSA ADOPTS HARSHER TONE ON ISRAEL
5. TROUBLE AND VIOLENCE IN "THE SETTLEMENTS"
1. OBAMA: ISRAEL SHOULDN'T BE AFRAID OF THE CHANGES IN MIDEAST
WASHINGTON - Obama told Jewish donors in Miami on Friday that Israel and the United States should not be afraid of changes taking place in the Middle East. Obama said that the world needs to be "sober" about the current transformation in the region but stressed that the West shouldn't fear the future.
Speaking at a fund-raising dinner in Miami on Friday night, Obama said he told a group of Jewish leaders at the White House Tuesday: "We can't be naïve about the changes that are taking place in the Middle East," but "we should not be afraid of the possibilities of the future." He also said that he had stressed that "our commitment to Israel security is inviolable, is sacrosanct."
Obama acknowledged Friday that when it comes to changes in the region, "there are going to be some bumps along the road," and charting a path forward will mean US participation and a will "to seize that moment." "We're going to have to be engaged and we're going to have to be involved and we're going to have to reach out," he said. "But I'm actually confident that 10 years from now we're going to be able to look back potentially and say this was the dawning of an entirely new and better era."
Addressing the contours of a future peace deal between Israelis and Palestinians, Obama assured these leaders that Jewish areas would stay in Israel's hands, according to many participants.
Following reports that Obama had expressed hostility against Israel in the meeting, the leaders of the conference issued a statement denying he had exhibited such an attitude. (Jerusalem Post) Read more.
- It is always better to trust in the Lord and not in man. Pray that the Israelis are not "taken in" or deceived by smooth sounding words, but that instead, they be granted eyes to see through the deception. Only in this way will they be able to be alert to the dangers surrounding them.
- 'The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me? The Lord is for me among those who help me; Therefore I shall see my desire on those that hate me. It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the Lord, than to put confidence in princes." (Psalm 118:6-9)
2. NETANYAHU PRAISES POPE FOR CLEARING JEWS OF JESUS' DEATH
Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu on Thursday sent a letter praising Pope Benedict XVI for reiterating that the Jewish people are not responsible for Jesus' death. The Pope made the comments in a new book released on Wednesday.
"I commend you for forcefully rejecting, in your recent book, a false charge that has been a foundation for the hatred of the Jewish People for many centuries," Netanyahu wrote.
The Prime Minister also offered to meet again with the Pope: "My fervent hope is that your clarity and courage will strengthen the relations between Jews and Christians throughout the world and help promote peace and reconciliation for generations to come."
"I look forward to seeing you again soon and to expressing my deep appreciation for you in person."" In the book, the Pope also denies the Gospel writers' claim that Jews working in the Temple collaborated with the Roman authorities, leading to Jesus' execution.
"Many readers will find this section of the book particularly interesting as the Pope reviews the historical positions taken about this," said Father Joseph Fessio, founder and publisher of Ignatius Press, the primary publisher of the Pope's books in the US. "He discusses some very controversial claims that have been made, and draws on some contemporary scholarly resources to reach a conclusion that I am certain will generate a lot of discussion."
The book, Jesus of Nazareth: Holy Week - From the Entrance Into Jerusalem to the Resurrection, a sequel to a previous book on Jesus' life, the Pope describes "the final week of Jesus' earthly life." (Jerusalem Post) [Reported by: Bridges for Peace]
- Praise God that the Pope has proclaimed the truth boldly and set the record straight. Pray that this will greatly bless our Jewish friends and strengthen Jewish-Christian relations around the world.
- "This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends." (John 15:12-13)
3. IMMEDIATE ELECTIONS IN ARAB COUNTRIES COULD BRING EXTREMISTS TO POWER
In Jerusalem, MK Shai Hermesh, chairman of the World Jewish Congress Israel Executive, and Dan Diker, WJC secretary-general designate and director-general of WJC-Israel, hosted a dinner in honor of Princeton Professor-emeritus Bernard Lewis, 94, as part of a special gathering by the WJC Israel Executive and other select guests including members of the Knesset and leading experts on Islam and the Middle East.
Dan Diker dialogued with Lewis about the most pressing challenges confronting the Middle East today in light of the current regional upheaval. On Egypt, Lewis said that the West frequently imposed its own ideas and understanding of democracy on the Muslim world, although in Arab countries the notion of democracy was understood differently than in the West. He emphasized the importance of institution building and warned that immediate elections in Arab countries could result in Islamic extremists taking power.
Throughout his 70 years of scholarship, the Jewish scholar Lewis has published over 30 books and written more than 1,000 articles. He is considered the greatest living authority on Islam and the Middle East, and has advised numerous presidents and prime ministers throughout the world.
(Excerpts of an article by World Jewish Congress, February 28, 2011)
- Pray that the West, particularly the US that is pushing democracy in Middle Eastern countries, will heed these words of wisdom.
- "My son, if you receive my words, and treasure my commands within you, so that you incline your ear to wisdom, and apply your heart to understanding; Yes, if you cry out for discernment, and lift up your voice for understanding, if you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures; then you will understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God." (Proverbs 2:1-5)
[Reported by: Bridges for Peace]
4. EGYPT'S MOUSSA ADOPTS HARSHER TONE ON ISRAEL
Arab League Secretary-General Amr Moussa announced on Tuesday [March 1] that he was running for president of Egypt in elections scheduled for this year. In an interview with Al-Masry Al-Youm daily, the former Egyptian foreign minister recalled his disagreements with ousted President Hosni Mubarak regarding Israel.
"The foreign ministry during my term suffered from a negative policy on Israel's part with regards to the peace [treaty]. I thought we should be honest with the Israelis and take firm measures against them in the framework of the foreign ministry's activities. Maybe this created some discord regarding [Egypt's] relations with Israel." (YnetNews)
- Pray that God's will be done in Egypt through the coming elections. Pray that God will strengthen the Church in Egypt and cause the Christians there to be a light during a very dark and troublesome time.
- "The burden against Egypt. Behold the LORD rides on a swift cloud, and will come into Egypt; the idols of Egypt will totter at His presence, and the heart of Egypt will melt in its midst." (Isaiah 19:1; read all of the chapter).
5. TROUBLE AND VIOLENCE IN "THE SETTLEMENTS"
[The following report is submitted by Intercessors for Israel. This is an excerpt . . . please visit their websitefor more information. Thank you.]
We're in a very difficult situation. The police tore down an "illegal" outpost in Samaria. There was much violence on both sides. There are no deaths but police used rubber bullets on the settlers.
-- According to the (League of Nations) Mandate for Palestine, Jewish people may live anywhere between the river Jordan and the Mediterranean Sea. This also the Biblical imperative. However as in any other country the government sets standards for building. Who can build what and were. While we stand for the right of Jewish People to build anywhere in the Land, we cannot stand for anarchy.
-- Yesterday the settlers held a "Day of Rage"- Rage is rage. God is not pleased with this attitude. This kind of reaction is self-defeating as it only further alienates those Israelis who don't believe in living in Judea and Samaria in the first place. It is bad public relations and could divide us against each other. The Rabbis say that 2000 years of exile were due to "brother lifting up hand against brother."
- "A brother offended is harder to win than a strong city, And contentions are like the bars of a castle." (Prov 18:19)
- Rage is born of hate.
"Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him." (1 John 3:15)
We prayed for the settlers to take Proverbs 18:19 as a warning and ask God to deal with hate in their hearts.
- It is good that the settlers have a passion for settling the land but not in the process turning against the state and against fellow Jews. Prov 19:11 gives us a Godly response:
"The discretion of a man makes him slow to anger, And his glory is to overlook a transgression."(Prov. 19:11)
> > Pray for these precious Jewish believers in the land of Israel as they search their own hearts and learn what Abba would speak to them in this hour. May the lessons they gain become ours, too, as we all move forward together in these perilous times. Amen.
- "Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." (Psalm 119:105)
On Capitol Hill This Week Volume XVIII, Number 9b
DOMESTIC ISSUES
1. OBAMA REFUSES TO DEFEND THE DEFENSE OF MARRIAGE ACT (DOMA)
2. GOP POLICY CHAIRMAN RESPONDS TO OBAMA DECISION TO ABANDON DOMA
3. CHURCH GROUP BLASTS OBAMA FOR ABANDONING DOMA
4. SENATE GOP LEADER MCCONNELL COMMENTS ON BUDGET IMPASSE
5. OBAMA ADMINISTRATION SEIZES CONTROL OF THE INTERNET
6. JUDGE TO OBAMA: YOU HAVE ONE WEEK TO SAVE OBAMACARE
7. MOSLEM "SHARIA FOR AMERICA" RALLY IN FRONT OF WHITE HOUSE CANCELED
8. FOURTEEN STATES ARE CONSIDERING ANTI-SHARIA LEGISLATION
9. HOUSE COMMITTEE HOLDS HEARINGS ON THREAT OF ISLAMIC RADICALIZATION
10. MILITARY TRIBUNALS BACK AT GITMO
11. TSA CONSIDERING MAJOR AIRPORT SECURITY SHAKEUP
12. NINE CONGRESSMEN CAUTION SECRETARY GATES ON CHINESE CONTRACTS
13. OBAMA APPOINTS MUSLIM BROTHERHOOD TO KEY POSTS
1. OBAMA REFUSES TO DEFEND THE DEFENSE OF MARRIAGE ACT (DOMA)
Last week, Attorney General Eric Holder released the news that the Obama Administration would no longer defend the federal definition of marriage found in the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) because Obama has decided that Section 3 is unconstitutional. (According to Section 3, the federal government defines marriage as a legal union between one man and one woman.)
Following the announcement, the Department of Justice (DoJ) delivered a letter to Members of Congress informing them of the decision. For the time being, however, the law will be enforced by the Administration only until it is repealed by Congress or until the courts declare "a definitive verdict against the law's constitutionality." The Defense of Marriage Act was originally signed into law by President Bill Clinton in 1996 authorizing that no state is required to treat as marriage a same-sex union considered marriage in another state.
- Father, we recognize the critical nature of these next two weeks for these marriage cases in the American courts. We humbly ask for your mercy and the preservation of our statutory recognition of this blessed institution you have given to us. Please preserve marriage in this nation you have given to us.
- "These things shall be a statute of judgment to you throughout your generations in all your dwellings." (Numbers 35:29)
2. GOP POLICY CHAIRMAN RESPONDS TO OBAMA DECISION TO ABANDON DOMA
In one of Obama's most cynical policy position changes since he became president -- and there have been many -- the decision made by Barack Obama today that he would no longer defend the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), that defines marriage as only between a man and a woman is the most abominable. The bill was passed by a vote of 85-14 in the United States Senate and a vote of 342-67 in the House of Representatives and was signed into law by a Democrat president, Bill Clinton.
Indeed, there is proof at the election polls that the overwhelming majority of the American people support marriage between one man and one woman only. There is not one state in the union, which has put a constitutional amendment on the ballot banning homosexual "marriage," whose citizens voted against such a constitutional amendment. So far, voters in 31 out of 31 states (some of them liberal states) have passed state constitutional amendments allowing marriages only between one man and one woman.
Meanwhile, in Congress, House Republican Policy Committee Chairman Tom Price, M.D. (R-GA) issued the following press release, which stated, in part: "Those who have fought to redefine marriage have often relied on the court to legislate from the bench rather than through their duly elected representatives in both Congress and state legislatures. Today's action by the White House will only encourage others to use the courts as a springboard to enact an agenda outside the legislative branches of government. Once again, this demonstrates a woeful lack of leadership on the part of the president and his administration." (Christian Coalition of America)
- Father, we thank you for men who will stand in the gap and stand up for marriage when others will not. May their efforts rise and shine forth your glory in this, your land.
- "I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it." (Ezekiel 22:30)
3. CHURCH GROUP BLASTS OBAMA FOR ABANDONING DOMA
Large coalition of 34,000 black churches condemns Obama's stand on DOMA
A coalition of 34,000 black churches is blasting Obama's decision to stop defending the federal law that bans recognition of gay marriage. The Rev. Anthony Evans, who heads the National Black Church Initiative, says Obama "has violated the Christian faith" by failing to uphold Jesus' teaching that marriage is between a man and a woman. The Justice Department announced Wednesday that, at Obama's direction, it would not defend the constitutionality of the Defense of Marriage Act in a court case where it's being challenged. As a result, Evans says black churches must "reassess their extraordinary support for him." White House Press Secretary Jay Carney says Obama is still "grappling" with his personal views on gay marriage but has long opposed the federal law as unnecessary and unfair. (Newsmax; AP)
- Sing praises of thanksgiving to the Lord for this stand being taken by the coalition of black churches. The president must decide where he stands - with God or with politics. Please pray that Mr. Obama chooses God's way and tells the Justice Department and Attorney General Eric Holder to rescind any statement that violates DOMA.
- "Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh." (Genesis 2:24)
4. SENATE GOP LEADER MCCONNELL COMMENTS ON BUDGET IMPASSE
It is beyond comprehension how the Democrats -- when they had huge majorities in both the House and the Senate and had a president in the White House last year -- could not manage to come up with a budget for Fiscal Year 2011, which is already almost half-way finished. The Democrats also were not able to do their duty -- as they were supposed to by law -- to pass the 13 appropriations bills which fund the government for this year.
So now, the Republicans have to do the Democrats' work for them and not only pass a budget for the remainder of this year -- which includes cuts in government of up to $100 billion -- but the House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan, R-WI, is hard at work with his committee coming up with their first budget as the Republicans now control the House of Representatives, to fund Fiscal Year 2012 which begins this October 1st.
Here is what the Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell has to say to the derelict Democrats in the United States Senate who, at this time, still control the Senate: " It's time for Democrats to present a serious plan of their own that addresses this crisis. It's time for Democrats to take the concerns of the American people seriously." (Christian Coalition of America) Read more.
- Father, there is a lot going on financially in our federal governement alone: funding the rest of this fiscal year, planning a budget for the next fiscal year, funding the next fiscal year, and adjusting the limit on our national debt as reaching it is expected soon. On this point about planning our regular spending for the next fiscal year, we ask for a plan that honors You, that does not fund the destruction of human life, and that sustains its purpose throughout the actual funding of fiscal year 2012.
- "The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty, But those of everyone who is hasty, surely to poverty." (Proverbs 21:5)
5. OBAMA ADMINISTRATION SEIZES CONTROL OF THE INTERNET
BACKGROUND: On December 20, 2010 Obama used the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to seize control of the Internet. The move could have a devastating impact on the U.S. economy, investments and innovation while squelching your freedom of speech!
Congress had 60 days to stop what the federal courts declared to be an unconstitutional usurpation (i.e., power grab) by the FCC in violation of the 1st Amendment. The Democratically-controlled 111th Congress was mute. We now have a constitutional dilemma. Mr. Obama and his surrogates have assumed regulatory control of your Internet.
Three federal judges have ruled that the FCC does NOT have the right to interfere with free press. The Internet is also protected under the same First Amendment rights of the United States Constitution.
NOW: The 112th Congress trying to OVERTURN Obama's ruling, but they need your warfare as Democrats stall the VOTE.
Republicans in the House and Senate have already introduced a "Resolution of Disapproval," seeking to overturn the FCC's new net neutrality rules. This Resolution was launched in the United States Senate by Senator Kay Bailey Hutchinson (R-TX), Senator John Ensign (R-NV) and Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY). It was initiated in the House of Representatives by Rep. Greg Walden (R-OR) and Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI), both former broadcasters.
Representative Greg Walden is Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology. He asserted, "There is a broad chorus of congressional voices that agree the FCC overstepped its bounds. That's what we're going to raise with the five (FCC) commissioners in front of the subcommittee (this) week, and that's why we will offer a resolution of disapproval under the Congressional Review Act."
On Wed., March 2, 2011, at 9:30 a.m., the House Energy and Commerce Committee was originally scheduled to meet in the Rayburn House Office Building to mark-up the resolution on the FCC self-appointed decision to take over control of the Internet. Wednesday's mark-up and vote was suddenly RESCHEDULED. The Left is demanding one more hearing before they will agree to move the resolution to a vote! (From AmeriPac)
- Storm the gates of heaven in prayer, and the gates of Congress in action (phone calls), demanding that this hearing be held. Then thank our God that He does look over His own, as we ask Him to cause this FCC ruling to be overturned. PRAY!
- "For the eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous, and His ears attend to their prayer." (I Peter 3:12)
6. JUDGE TO OBAMA: YOU HAVE ONE WEEK TO SAVE OBAMACARE
The clock is ticking on the Obama administration's plans to implement Obamacare. . . That was the bottom-line result following a federal judge's ruling Thursday giving the administration just seven days to file an expedited appeal either to the U.S. Supreme Court or the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals.
If the administration misses that deadline, it could face an injunction that would bring its implementation of Obamacare to a screeching halt in 26 states.
Judge Roger Vinson's 20-page ruling chastised the government for dragging its feet before seeking a stay, or temporary suspension, of his January ruling that the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is unconstitutional. Vinson previously ruled that requiring individuals to make a federally mandated purchase - buying a healthcare plan - exceeds the federal government's constitutional authority to regulate interstate commerce.
Vinson said he had expected the government to ask for a stay of his ruling. "It was not expected," he wrote in his opinion Thursday, "that they would effectively ignore the order and declaratory judgment for two and one-half weeks, continue to implement the Act, and only then file a belated motion to 'clarify.'" (Newsmax) URGENT! Read more.
- Father, we thank you for a system of judicial review. We thank You for men who put words of action to their words of truth. Preserve our freedom of health care, our freedom of speech, and our freedom to worship. May the integrity of our health care system continue to encourage people to go into the health care field as doctors and nurses to bring comfort to hurting people as Jesus did when he walked this earth, and still does today.
- "The woman who has a husband is bound by the law to her husband as long as he lives." (Romans 7:2)
7. MOSLEM RALLY IN FRONT OF WHITE HOUSE CANCELED
Planned to demand Islamic sharia law be implemented across the United States.
Radical Muslims have postponed a scheduled a rally in front of the White House to demand Islamic sharia law be implemented across the United States.
Hardline British Muslim cleric Anjem Choudary was expected to lead the pro-Sharia demonstration Thursday. However, Sharia4America posted a video message from Choudary on their website, saying that due to overblown coverage and security concerns, the rally had been postponed indefinitely. No further information was given.
Organizers of the Sharia4America had recently touted the scheduled event saying it will become "an unanticipated wild card for the West, galvanizing the immense support for Sharia in the Middle East and bringing it directly to the doorsteps of the United States of America." (CBN) Read more.
- Rejoice that this rally has been postponed and a new date has not yet been set. Pray that the word of this journalist will come true: "that Choudary will not be able to drum up enough interest to execute the rally", and that he will not even show up.
- "Because He has inclined His ear to me, therefore I will follow Him all the days of my life." (Psalm 116:2)
8. FOURTEEN STATES ARE CONSIDERING ANTI-SHARIA LEGISLATION
American Bar Association Creates Task Force to Fight Those Measures
Tennessee has become the first state in the nation to consider strict legislation that would make it a felony for Muslims to practice some parts of Islamic Sharia law. [Sharia is a religious code that most Muslims recognize, but which also includes extremist views and practices, such as amputation for theft and stoning for adultery.]
Republican state Sen. Bill Ketron said his proposal exempts the peaceful practice of Islam, but would make supporting portions of Sharia law punishable by 15 years in jail. Ketron said the legislation would also give law enforcement a powerful counterterrorism tool. If enacted, the bill is expected to face fierce constitutional battles. Currently, at least 14 state legislatures have bills pending that would bar judges from considering Sharia in legal decisions, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.
Islamic groups fear the measure would essentially make it illegal to be Muslim in Tennessee, and would outlaw key practices such as praying five times a day or fasting for Ramadan. The American Bar Association also recently announced plans to fight efforts to block Sharia law.
The American Thinker reported the ABA has created a task force to fight those measures. They also plan to create talking points for activists who are opposing those bills. (CBN)
- Father, we thank You for leaders at the state level with courage from You who are standing up to the increasing threat of Islam in America. Move these efforts ahead. While some may call this "low-hanging fruit," none of these efforts will be easy, and yet we call on You to yield a great harvest in all 50 states in America against Islamic Sharia law.
We ask You, too, to forgive the members of the ABA for their efforts to protect sharia law in America, for they surely do not know what they do. Amen.
- "The law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death." (Romans 8:2)
9. HOUSE COMMITTEE HOLDS HEARINGS ON THREAT OF ISLAMIC RADICALIZATION
Radical Islam poses a threat to the United States as a whole, but is particularly dangerous to American Muslims who are targeted by terror groups, the chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee said Sunday in defending upcoming hearings on radical Islam. Rep. Peter King, R-N.Y., is facing a backlash, including Sunday protests in New York, over his decision to hold hearings on the threat of Islamic radicalization. King said he's surprised the American-Muslim community is not embracing his hearings because they are the ones most victimized when radical elements infiltrate their communities. "I've said time and again the overwhelming [majority] of Muslims are good Americans, but the threat is coming from their community and we have to find out why, how it is being done and how to stop it," he told Fox News. "We have an absolute obligation to investigate that."
King said that among the witnesses testifying at his hearing are family members of two men who were radicalized -- one was murdered and one committed an act of violence. He said they will discuss how the imams at the mosques they attended were involved and will offer "telltale indicators" so people can be aware of radicalization efforts within their surroundings. "Also, we'll see from witnesses how often they are told not to cooperate with the FBI, not to cooperate with the police, and, somehow, a wall of silence builds up and that is part of why I'm holding the hearings," King told Fox News.
Moslem Rep. Keith Ellison, D-Minn., the first Moslem elected to the House, said that while it's proper to investigate radicalization, he thinks it is wrong to single out a religious minority. "If we're going to talk about gang violence, I don't think it's right to talk about, you know, only the Irish community and the Westies. I think we talk about gang violence. I think, if we're going to talk about organized crime, it's not right to just talk about the Russian community," Ellison said during a Sunday appearance with King on CNN's "State of the Union."
However, Moslem Ellison, who will be participating in the hearings, added that it makes sense to talk to the Muslim community about how to "meet the challenge of public security" to prevent people like Anwar al-Awlaki, the American cleric who fled to Yemen, from reaching his tentacles into American-Muslim communities. "I think it makes sense to talk about the Internet, confronting ideology of people like Anwar al-Awlaki. I think where he's trying to exploit and misuse Islam, we should counter him with what Islam really does say. And so I do think that there is a place for that. I just think it doesn't make sense to narrow in on a discreet, insular group that has already been the target of a certain amount of discrimination," Ellison said. (Fox News) Read more.
- Father, thank You for this courageous hearing coming this Thursday. We ask protection for those involved and attending. We ask that You would help our citizens to discern the true nature of Islam with great clarity. We ask that You would draw people to Yourself through this hearing and through the many discussions this may generate across our land. May we understand why the majority of Muslims oppose these hearings. May we learn how to better understand our times through these hearings. Break down the wall of silence!
- "The sons of Issachar . . . had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do." (1 Chronicles 12:32)
10. MILITARY TRIBUNALS BACK AT GITMO
Obama issued an executive order today outlining the changes Monday afternoon, as Defense Secretary Robert Gates rescinded a January 2009 ban against bringing new charges against terror suspects in the military commissions. "I strongly believe that the American system of justice is a key part of our arsenal in the war against Al Qaeda and its affiliates, and we will continue to draw on all aspects of our justice system -- including Article III courts -- to ensure that our security and our values are strengthened," the president said in a statement. Article III courts are civilian federal courts. The White House said in a statement that the tribunals are an "important tool in combating international terrorists."
The decision was the latest signal that the prison camp will not close down anytime soon, despite the president's pledge when he took office to shutter the facility. (AP)
- Father, we pray for wisdom for our leaders. We pray for justice for our people. We pray for man's justice and God's mercy for those who would do us harm.
- "Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law." (Romans 13:10)
11. TSA CONSIDERING MAJOR AIRPORT SECURITY SHAKEUP
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is considering a significant shift in the way airport security is handled, moving towards a more "intelligence-driven system," that would focus on "higher-risk passengers," the head of the agency said today.
Under the plan, all air passengers would not be treated as potential terrorists. "We want to focus our limited resources on higher-risk passengers, while speeding and enhancing the passenger experience at the airport," Pistole said.
Pistole admitted the current TSA security screening system is "not perfect."
"We can all testify to the inconvenience we sometimes experience because of such a comprehensive system," he said. "But the other thing we can say with absolute confidence is that this system has effectively secured aviation in this nation since 9/11." (AOL)
- Lord, we thank You that our nation has been "effectively secured" from any successful aviation attacks since 9/11. We ask you to watch over and guide the defining of terms like "security," "higher-risk passengers," and "intelligence." We pray for those definitions to be officially written down!
- "Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of the Lord our God." (Psalm 20:7)
12. NINE MEMBERS OF CONGRESS CAUTION SECRETARY OF DEFENSE ON CHINESE CONTRACTS
Congressman Forbes, along with eight other Members of Congress, sent a letter to Defense Secretary Robert Gates expressing concern over recent news that Chinese-owned defense companies plan to seek U.S. defense contracts. The Wall Street Journal previously reported that Aviation Industry Corporation (AVIC), a state-owned Chinese defense company, is working with a U.S. firm to prepare bids for the new presidential helicopter and the replacement training jet for the Air Force. The letter encourages the Secretary of Defense to consider the national security implications of such a decision and encourages him to work closely with Congress to ensure hardware vital to national security is not procured from state-owned foreign sources. (Office of Congressman Randy Forbes)
- Father, we thank you for a strong national defense. We pray for our leaders, contractors, and those who support them. We ask for your wisdom to guide decisions of procurement and for careful consideration to national security implications that may be involved in those business transactions.
- "If you sell anything to your neighbor or buy from your neighbor's hand, you shall not oppress one another." (Leviticus 25:14)
13. OBAMA APPOINTS MOSLEM BROTHERHOOD TO KEY POSTS
An ex-CIA agent and counter-intelligence expert has revealed in a special report that Barack Obama has quietly appointed members of the Muslim Brotherhood to key posts within the Administration. Dr. Clare Lopez, professor at the Centre for Counterintelligence and Security Studies, wrote a policy paper in December of 2009 which details the systematic appointment of Sharia-friendly advocates within the State Department and other government agencies.
For example, the Tehran-born Dr. Vali Nasr was appointed to co-direct Obama's foreign policy toward Afghanistan and Pakistan. Former Saudi Arabian supplicant Charles Freeman was appointed by Obama to chair the Administration's National Intelligence Council, but withdrew his name when it was revealed he issued a 2-page screed in which he postulated a conspiracy theory claiming he had been 'victimized' by American supporters of Israel. In addition, John Limbert was appointed to direct U.S. policy toward the Islamist regime in Iran. Limbert, who was taken hostage during the Iranian upheaval of the late 70s-early 80s, is an Iranian sympathizer who advocates negotiation with one of the most brutal dictatorships in the world.
While it is true that some of the initial appointees have departed from the Administration, the fix was already in. The Obama Administration is manned by Sharia-friendly appointees who help steer American foreign policy in the Middle East. (Examiner) Read more.
- While it appears that the intercession of American Christians is thwarting the plans of those who would destroy the USA, now is not the time for celebration but rather for sharpening our weapons until the enemy is totally defeated. France has said 'no" to sharia as has Germany, and the UK is sorry that she allowed a foothold for sharia. Pray for Americans to wake up and slam the door on this abhorrent set of laws of Islam. Ask your children and grandchildren what they are learning in school about sharia law. Teach them what God says about the value of the individual person so that they do not fall prey to any "reasonable" explanation of sharia.
- "O our God, will You not judge them? For we have no power against this great multitude that is coming against us, nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You." (2 Chronicles 20:12)
On Capitol Hill This Week: BILLS TO WATCH
BILLS WE ARE WATCHING . . .
1. DEFENSE OF MARRIAGE ACT
2. FISCAL YEAR 2011 SPENDING SHORT TERM
3. HOUSE COMMITTEE APPROVES PRO-LIFE LEGISLATION
4. SENATE BILL COULD LEAD TO OVERTURN OF ROE V. WADE
5. CONSERVATIVES OPPOSE S. 23: "PATENT REFORM ACT OF 2011"
6. ANOTHER LOOK AT THE START TREATY
1. DEFENDING THE DEFENSE OF MARRIAGE ACT
Since the Executive Branch has decided not to defend the laws it is entrusted to enforce, the Legislative Branch is picking up the slack. House Speaker John Boehner: "I will convene a meeting of the Bipartisan Legal Advisory Group for the purpose of initiating action by the House to defend this law of the United States, which was enacted by a bipartisan vote in Congress and signed by President Bill Clinton. It is regrettable that the Obama Administration has opened this divisive issue at a time when Americans want their leaders to focus on jobs and the challenges facing our economy. The constitutionality of this law should be determined by the courts -- not by the president unilaterally -- and this action by the House will ensure the matter is addressed in a manner consistent with our Constitution." The Bipartisan Legal Advisory Group is a five-member panel consisting of the Speaker of the House, Majority Leader, Majority Whip, Minority Leader, and Minority Whip. Under House rules, the advisory group has the authority to instruct the non-partisan office of the House General Counsel to take legal action on behalf of the House of Representatives.
The Legislative Branch also intends to take the Executive Branch to task this week for its dropping of the case: H.Con.Res. 25: Expressing the sense of Congress with respect to the Obama administration's discontinuing to defend the Defense of Marriage Act.
- Father, we thank you for a House that is not divided against itself. We ask for a stronger defense of the Defense of Marriage Act than we would have had before. Go before your sacred institution in our courts.
- Jesus came into the ruler's house. (Matthew 9:23)
2. FISCAL YEAR 2011 SPENDING, SHORT TERM
Last week Congress passed a temporary extension of funding for the federal government unlike any in recent memory: it included significant cuts in spending. Whether this represents "the lowest of the low-hanging fruit" or not (CQ, 2/28), this most recent CR (H.J.Res. 44) has changed the terms of this year's budget debate. "It's no longer not about whether to cut domestic discretionary appropriations. It's about how much to cut" (CQ, 3/2). This next CR expires March 18. Few are expecting a final deal by then, especially with the President threatening a veto over funding for the nation's largest abortion provider. The question about how to bridge the $60 billion gap between how much the levels at which the House and Senate want to fund the federal government. "The Senate is to hold test votes on the competing proposals on Tuesday" (The Hill, 3/4/2011).
"Beyond the money, plenty of obstacles to a deal lie in the social policy changes that would be carried out under the year-ending spending proposal the House passed two weeks ago - by paring funding for last year's health care overhaul, for example, and ending federal help for Planned Parenthood. Pressed hard by conservative advocacy groups, and by many of their 87 freshmen, House GOP leaders are seriously considering attaching those two provisions to the CR that will be needed in two weeks" (CQ Roll Call, 3/2).
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Oh Father! Would that our House leaders would indeed immediately eliminate the funding for Planned Parenthood in the very next continuing resolution for this fiscal year. May our president not veto a temporary spending bill just to keep the nation's largest abortion provider in business for two weeks. Father, we pray for all who provide cover for this organization. We thank you for even Clinton Administration officials for calling out Planned Parenthood for what they are--a population control organization. Lord, we praise for your lighting shining brighter and brighter on this institution. We cry out to you to end abortion in America.
- Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth. (Genesis 1:28)
3. HOUSE COMMITTEE APPROVES PRO-LIFE LEGISLATION
H.R. 3 SENT TO FULL HOUSE FOR ACTION: NO TAXPAYER FUNDING FOR ABORTION ACT
The U.S. House of Representatives is one step closer to voting on a bill that would convert several pro-life policies -- also known as riders -- into law.
The House Judiciary Committee voted 23-14 in favor of the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act, which was introduced by Reps. Chris Smith, R-N.J., and Dan Lipinski, D-Ill., and has close to 210 co-sponsors.
H.R. 3 would prohibit taxpayer funding for abortion in all federal programs; currently a patchwork of such policies must be approved annually. The bill also would codify conscience protections for health care workers who object to abortion and other actions.
The legislation eventually will reach the Senate. Until then, life advocates are calling on senators to put pro-life provisions into the current spending resolutions. "One of the easiest ways to save money would be to stop sending it to abortion sellers," said Ashley Horne, federal policy analyst at CitizenLink.
- Lord, this is not a new policy. It just puts long-standing policy into a more permanent place in the law. We thank you for these many years of good policy (albeit, they're controls on very bad policy), and the lives they have saved, and the damage spared. We ask that these words would be permanently etched into the United States Code.
- "If it pleases the king, let a royal decree go out from him, and let it be recorded in the laws of the Persians and the Medes, so that it will not be altered." (Esther 1:19)
4. SENATE BILL COULD LEAD TO OVERTURN OF ROE V. WADE
Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS) is sponsoring the "Life at Conception Act" (S.91), which will define personhood from the moment of conception. Sen. Wicker has 13 co-sponsors thus far.
In Harry Blackmun's 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling, he wrote that "if personhood is established, the appellant's case (i.e., 'Roe'), of course collapses, for the fetus' right to life is then guaranteed specifically by the [14th] amendment."
Under S.91, a "human person" and a "human being" includes every individual "at all stages of life, including, but not limited to, the moment of fertilization, cloning and other moment at which an individual. . . comes into being."
If this bill is enacted into law, it thus will not only provide protection for unborn babies, it will follow the path Justice Blackmun laid out 38 years ago for overturning Roe v. Wade, an act of judicial activism that has led to the deaths of 53 million infants before they have drawn their first breath.
Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-CA) has introduced a parallel bill in the House (H.R.374) which currently has 53 co-sponsors.
- Lord, there's low hanging fruit, and then there's fruit that only You can bring forth. You are the God who turns hearts of kings and judges and legislators in your hands like water. What can be too hard for you? As one Representative said to us years ago, send Roe v. Wade back to hell where it belongs!
- "Jesus said to him, 'If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.' Immediately the father of the child cried out and said with tears, 'Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!'" (Mark 9:23-24)
5. CONSERVATIVES OPPOSE S. 23: "PATENT REFORM ACT OF 2011"
Senate to Vote on This Bill Tomorrow (Tuesday)
CQ Roll Call explains S. 23 is "legislation that would make 'first to file' (instead of 'first to invent') the guiding principle behind awarding patents." Eagle Forum finds the changes less innocuous: S. 23, the so-called "Patent Reform Act of 2011" will destroy our patent system by setting up a system that disadvantages small inventors in favor of large corporations, makes it easier to infringe patents, easier to challenge patent rights in administrative proceedings and in the courts, and makes it more expensive for inventors to defend their patents. All this is being done in an effort to "harmonize" with the rest of the world. Why on earth would we want to harmonize with countries that don't protect intellectual property rights? Other countries should be harmonizing with us to improve their systems. Killing innovation in America would not only kill jobs and economic growth, it would cut off the world's largest supply of new ideas and inventions. Where would we be without American inventions from light bulbs to dialysis machines? Innovation vastly improves, and can even save our lives. We must fight to protect it! A long list of conservative leaders and organizations, including former Attorney General Edwin Meese, sent this letter to every Senator and Member of Congress urging them to oppose any so-called reform that would kill innovation.
The Senate has been considering this bill throughout the week, and are likely to vote on final passage on Tuesday.
- Father, we thank you that you are a God whose work it is to create, to call those things which do not exist as though they did. We thank you that you have created us in your image and called us to create with you. We thank you for sending us out into the world, and for giving us work. We thank you that you have given us property rights by telling us not to steal. We thank you for societies that build high-level interaction for people with intellectual property. We ask you to protect our ability to fully live out being made in your image by being able to produce property of lasting value for your glory.
- "We are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, you are God's building."
(1 Corinthians 3:9)
6. ANOTHER LOOK AT THE START TREATY
FREE TRADE WITH PROTECTIONIST CHINA CHEATS AMERICA
It looks like the Russians fooled us again in nuclear treaty negotiations. After Obama bamboozled the Senate into a hurry-up ratification of his New START Treaty, Russia impudently rejected the McCain "understanding" that we don't have to abide by the Preamble's language limiting the U.S. from building anti-missile defenses. Russia then ratified New START with its own understanding that the points about anti-missile defense are "indisputable" and must not be ignored. Shame on the Republican Senators who voted to ratify Obama's dangerous treaty.
We no longer worry about a nuclear attack from Russia, but we should start worrying about China, North Korea and Iran. It's time Americans wake up to the fact that China is not merely a friendly trading partner who manufactures cheap goods we can buy at WalMart. China is spending the billions of dollars it gets from its tremendous sales to Americans to build the most formidable military force in the world. China is building strategic nuclear weapons with delivery capabilities, submarines and ships, fighter planes and bombers, and a new anti-ship ballistic missile to sink U.S. aircraft carriers. (by Phyllis Schlafly; Eagle Forum) Read more.
- Father, please forgive us when we act without asking you for wisdom. Whether it's major action taken one time like ratifying a treating, or actions we take every day as part of an international economic arrangement, sometimes we can unknowingly or blindingly perpetuate injustice in the world. While we all have our own interests in the world, teach us to remember that all we say and do at all levels of society is to be out of love for You.
- "So David arose from the ground, washed and anointed himself, and changed his clothes; and he went into the house of the Lord and worshiped. Then he went to his own house; and when he requested, they set food before him, and he ate." (2 Samuel 12:20)
More News From the Hill
For more detailed and current information on what Congress has done and is doing in the House and Senate, please visit Deeper Inside the Mountain.
This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
GOD OF ALL GRACE (Ehlohay Ha-Khesek)
"And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast." (I Peter 5:10)
Dear God,
I know that You are waiting for me at the finish line of this trial. As I persevere, thank You for perfecting and establishing me in Messiah. Thank You, Lord, for always bringing me through victoriously. Thank You that success is not dependent on my strength, but my reliance of Your strength and Your grace. How lovely is Your name, O God of Grace.
(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)
