In This Issue• On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVIII, No. 13a
• More News From the Hill
• This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
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On Capitol Hill This Week - Volume XVIII, Number 13a
April 4 - 8, 2011
DOMESTIC EDITION April 4 - 8, 2011
"I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work." (John 9:4)
1. BOEHNER: $33B IN CUTS NOT A DONE DEAL
2. REID WILL CONSIDER HOT-BUTTON RIDERS
3. BOEHNER STRIVES TO KEEP GOVT OPEN
4. OBAMA REACHES OUT TO BOEHNER, REID ON BUDGET CALL
5. PRO-LIFE POLICIES IN H.R. 1
6. FISCAL YEAR 2011 FRUSTRATION
7. BALANCED BUDGET AMENDMENT TAKES NEW TWIST
8. CONSERVATIVE SENATORS WILL FILIBUSTER VOTE TO INCREASE DEBT LIMIT
9. RYAN'S BUDGET PLAN TO SLASH DEFICITS BY OVER $4 TRILLION
10. WALL STREET FIRMS HELD INAUGURAL LGBT SUMMIT
11. OBAMA KICKS OFF 2012 PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN ON WEBSITE
1. BOEHNER: $33B IN CUTS NOT A DONE DEAL
The $33 billion in spending cuts targeted by congressional negotiators is not a done deal, Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) cautioned Thursday. At a news conference, Boehner said lawmakers still have no agreement on a top-line figure for cutting 2011 spending and remain divided over controversial provisions demanded by Republicans that would defund the new healthcare law, Planned Parenthood and other White House policy objectives. The House Speaker also said he is "not very interested" in abandoning conservatives and building a coalition with centrist Democrats to pass a budget. (TheHill.com)
- Father, we thank you for leadership that is willing to stand by its principles. May they stick with it to the end.
- "He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ." (Philippians 1:6)
2. REID WILL CONSIDER HOT-BUTTON RIDERS
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) said Tuesday that Democrats are willing to take a look at policy riders tacked onto the House-approved spending bill, which could create a negotiating point with House Republicans. Reid responded to a question from a reporter about the add-ons - many of which strike at controversial social issues like abortion or climate change - in the context of whether they could be used as a bargaining chip. No Senate Democrats voted for the first House-approved long-term spending bill, which was stacked with the items. "We're happy to look at the policy riders . . . In fact, we've already [started] looking at some of the policy riders," Reid told reporters after huddling with his caucus. But the majority leader was quick to concede, "there aren't many that excite me." (Politico)
- Father, just as the health care bill last year came down to abortion at the last minute, so the spending plan for the last half of this fiscal year is coming down to abortion. Father, our hearts break for the thousands of lives lost to convenience at Planned Parenthood each year, each week, each day. May our leaders on both sides in all branches with whatever has been said even already this week in press releases be broken for these lives lost, and end giving a million dollars a day to an abortion provider.
- "What do you think? A man had two sons, and he came to the first and said, 'Son, go, work today in my vineyard.'He answered and said, 'I will not,' but afterward he regretted it and went." (Matthew 21:28-29)
3. BOEHNER STRIVES TO KEEP GOVT OPEN
WON'T RULE OUT ANOTHER SHORT-TERM CR
As Congress struggles to meet next week's deadline to strike a compromise to fund the government through the end of the fiscal year, House Speaker John Boehner Friday declined to rule out the possibility of another short-term continuing resolution in order to buy negotiators more time to cut a deal while rejecting calls from within the House GOP Conference to allow a shutdown to happen. (ABC News)
- Father, we've heard our leaders talk about how budget negotiations are now down to hours and minutes instead of days and weeks. If it be your will to give them more time to save the lives of children currently living inside their mothers, please open whatever doors are necessary to that end.
- "When you go with your adversary to the magistrate, make every effort along the way to settle with him, lest he drag you to the judge, the judge deliver you to the officer, and the officer throw you into prison." (Luke 12:58)
4. OBAMA REACHES OUT TO BOEHNER, REID ON BUDGET CALL
Washington (CNN) - President Barack Obama made separate calls on Saturday to House Speaker John Boehner, and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid to discuss ongoing budget negotiations, according to a statement released by the White House. In the weekly GOP address released before the call, Boehner made it clear that bipartisan cooperation was not immediately within reach. "You've heard Democratic leaders claim an agreement has been reached on this issue, but let me be clear," he said. "There is no agreement. Republicans continue to fight for the largest spending cuts possible to help end Washington's job-crushing spending binge."
During the call, the president affirmed the need to cut spending and acknowledged progress toward reaching a bipartisan compromise to make $73 billion in spending cuts this year. His team has been given a directive to work through the weekend and reach resolution on what will be eliminated, with an instruction to steer clear of any cuts that undermine economic growth, job creation and the ability to "win the future." (CNN)
- Father, we've heard news reports today about the President inviting the Speaker over "because he knows he won't have to accept those things" that are the final matters for negotiations. Father, we know he ultimately will have to accept things from you. Open his eyes. Show him that those children you are now forming in their mothers' wombs are the future you have given to us.
- "When the Angel of the Lord spoke these words to all the children of Israel, that the people lifted up their voices and wept." (Judges 2:4)
5. PRO-LIFE POLICIES IN H.R. 1
We wanted to pause and be reminded of what's in the bill the House passed in February. No funds allowed for abortion in the District of Columbia. No funds for the UN Population Fund which participates in the management of China's one child policy. Reinstatement of the Mexico City Policy which requires NGOs to certify that they will not promote or perform elective abortion as a condition on receiving U.S. taxpayer assistance. No funding for Planned Parenthood which has conducted 5,493,960 abortions since 1977. No funding for the Title X ("ten"), a domestic family planning program which functions as an additional pool of money for abortion organizations like Planned Parenthood. (CHPP)
- Father, we thank you for the progress made in the House in February. We ask you to make it endure through the rest of this fiscal year.
- "When you enter the land that God, your God, is giving you, don't take on the abominable ways oflife of the nations there." (Deuteronomy 18:9)
6. FISCAL YEAR 2011 FRUSTRATION
FY 2011 (OCTOBER 1, 2010 - SEPTEMBER 30, 2011)
While we have been very grateful for efforts in the newly elected House this year, Friday marked a diversion from the good path they've been on. To claim it can mark a deadline for the Senate and then declare, "the provisions of H.R. 1, as passed by the House on February 19, 2011, are hereby enacted into law" is to fly in the face of the Constitution. If they had said "the provisions . . . should be enacted into law" and if it had been a resolution and not a bill, that would have been acceptable.
As Rep. Paul Tonko (NY) said on the floor, "It's altogether fitting that we are debating this absurd measure today on April Fool's Day. Why? Because after reading the Constitution on the floor of this body just weeks ago, they are ignoring our founding document, mocking its principles, and attempting to circumvent 222 years of history. What do they want to do? Say that any bill, any bill that passes this House is good enough. No need for the Senate or President. It should just become law, like magic. This country was founded on checks and balances and limited government. Instead of desperate attempts to ram through job-destroying legislation to appease the extreme wing of their party, perhaps the majority in this House could try negotiating in good faith with the Senate and our President to keep the lights on. After all, that's the least the American public expects of their elected officials." (CHPP, Congressional Record)
- Father, we know there has been a lot of frustration on all sides with regards to the budget and spending plan for this now half-over fiscal year. We ask your forgiveness of our leaders who have trampled on the system of government you've given to us and declared they don't need it anymore. We ask for patience for Your timing, and trust You to fulfill your perfect will in our federal spending.
- "Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus, that you may with one mind and one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." (Romans 15:5-6)
7. BALANCED BUDGET AMENDMENT TAKES NEW TWIST
A longstanding effort by some members of Congress to add a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution has taken a new twist this year with Senate Republicans backing a version that would cut spending to a level not seen since the mid-1960s. Senate Republicans say all 47 members of their caucus support the new proposal. Their proposal would not only require a balanced budget - except in times of war - it would limit federal spending to 18 percent of the overall economy and require that proposals to raise taxes be approved by two-thirds of the House and Senate. (The Advertiser)
- Father, you are the God of our country, our Constitution, our fiscal policy, and our monetary policy. We ask that you would work them together for your good, and dig us out of this pit in which we find ourselves. Silence the mouths of those who say it cannot be done, or should not be done. Show the world what You can do.
- "Drink waters out of thine own cistern, and running waters out of thine own well." (Proverbs 5:15)
8. CONSERVATIVE SENATORS WILL FILIBUSTER VOTE TO INCREASE DEBT LIMIT
Senate conservatives plan to filibuster legislation to increase the nation's debt ceiling above $14.3 trillion, a move that will make it harder for President Obama to garner the votes he needs. Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) has told supporters in Utah that he will filibuster the legislation to authorize Treasury Department officials to add to the nation's multitrillion-dollar debt. "That's my intention, to filibuster it," said Lee, a member of the Senate Tea Party Caucus.
Lee said he might be persuaded to back off if Obama and Democratic leaders agreed to a major concession, which GOP strategists consider highly unlikely. "The concession would [have to] be something very significant, very permanent and very binding, like a balanced-budget amendment - and passage of it, not just a vote," Lee said. (TheHill.com)
- Lord, sometimes the only way to make a change is to make a point first. While blocking a debt increase limit won't alleviate what's driving the need for a debt increase limit, it can force the issue. We know that many promises made for decades cannot be kept under our current terms of operation. The rest of the world already sees this rather clearly. Make it clear to our leaders that this is not about party or faction, but about keeping our word. Show them Your strategy for America.
- "Resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother's way." (Romans 14:13)
9. RYAN'S BUDGET PLAN TO SLASH DEFICITS BY OVER $4 TRILLION
FISCAL YEAR 2012 (OCTOBER 1, 2011 - SEPTEMBER 30, 2012)
Rep. Paul Ryan, chairman of the House Budget committee, will propose fundamental reforms to Medicare and Medicaid in the GOP budget expected to be released Tuesday, implying in a Fox News Sunday interview that the deficit savings would exceed $4 trillion. "We can't keep kicking this can down the road," Ryan said to Fox. "The president has punted. We're not going to follow suit." He also said that the deficit reduction would exceed what President Obama's fiscal commission proposed last year, which was $4 trillion. (DC Examiner)
- Father, we thank you for leaders willing to take the long view, and their willingness to take a long shot. We praise you for proposals that would move us a long way toward moving our fiscal policy in the right direction.
- "The Lord said to Moses, Why do you cry to Me? Tell the children of Israel to go forward." (Exodus 14:15)
10. WALL STREET FIRMS HELD INAUGURAL LGBT SUMMIT
On March 30, six of Wall Street's major banks - Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Barclays, Citi, Goldman Sachs, Deutsche Bank and Morgan Stanley - joined together at 'Out on the Street', a summit convened to discuss issues vital to the lesbian, gay bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. Deutsche Bank hosted the inaugural summit, which focused on issues of culture change, recruitment, client development and driving business impact during four panel discussions. (HITC)
- Father, we have a financial system that already has a multitude of problems. We ask You to stand in the way of issues like these that would stand in the way of having a financial industry that would honor You.
- "Knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them." (Romans 1:32)
11. OBAMA KICKS OFF 2012 CAMPAIGN ON WEBSITE
Obama kicked off his 2012 presidential campaign on his website Monday morning. "We're opening up offices, unpacking boxes, and starting a conversation with supporters like you to help shape our path to victory," the website reads. "2012 begins now, and this is where you say you're in." (Jerusalem Post) Read more.
- It's still a very long way between now and November, 2012; and anything can -- and will -- happen yet. Pray.
- "Thy Kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven." (Matthew 6:10)
More News From the Hill
PLEASE NOTE: THIS WEEK THERE IS MUCH MORE NEWS FROM THE HILL FOR PRAYER . . MORE THAN WE CAN POST HERE.
For more detailed and current information on what Congress has done and is doing in the House and Senate, please be sure to visit Deeper Inside the Mountain.
On Capitol Hill This Week - Volume XVIII, Number 13b
April 4 - 8, 2011
INTERNATIONAL EDITION NEWS FROM ISRAEL
1. ISRAEL TO MIDEAST QUARTET: "TALK WITH US FIRST"
2. ISRAEL RELEASES MAP OF HIZBULLAH BUNKERS IN LEBANON
3. IRON DOME DEPLOYED NEAR BEERSHEBA
4. FACEBOOK REMOVES THIRD INTIFADA PAGE
5. EGYPT: NEW SIGNS OF HAMAS HEADWAY INTO NEW GOVERNMENT
6. ISRAELI, RUSSIAN SPACE AGENCIES SIGN COOPERATION AGREEMENT
7. ISRAEL TO RUSSIA: RECONSIDER SYRIA ARMS DEAL IN LIGHT OF MIDEAST TURMOIL
8. HAMAS WARNS OF "CONSEQUENCES" AFTER GAZA AIR STRIKE
9. IS THIS THE FIRST-EVER PORTRAIT OF JESUS?
[Please note: many items listed below were reported this week by Bridges for Peace.)
1. ISRAEL TO MIDEAST QUARTET: "TALK WITH US FIRST"
Despite no official agreement between the sides on borders, the European Union has already effectively called for the 1967 lines, which include the West Bank [Judea and Samaria], Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem, to be the basis for future borders of a hypothetical Palestinian state with territorial swaps as an option for the parties.
However, such recognition from the influential Mideast Quartet-consisting of the US, the EU, Russia and the United Nations-would be unprecedented. Bridges for Peace could not independently verify that such a statement on borders from the Quartet is in fact being discussed, although UK Foreign Secretary William Hague did call several weeks ago for the United States and the Quartet to "set out the parameters" of a future peace settlement, including borders.
One source in the Israeli government told Bridges for Peace on Tuesday [March 29] that Israel wants the Quartet to avoid surprising the Israelis or the Palestinians in a future statement, saying they should "talk with us before you talk about us." He also noted the importance of the key international group coordinating its statements with the sides.
(Excerpts of an article by Joshua Spurlock, BFP Israel Mosaic Radio, March 29, 2011)
- Pray that the leaders in the Mideast Quartet would bless Israel by their actions and statements and not contribute to the increasing diplomatic deligitimization of Israel's history and security. Pray that Israel's leaders would have perfect wisdom and be guided by God's heart for His nation.
- "Let all the earth fear the LORD; let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of Him. For He spoke, and it was done; He commanded, and it stood fast. The LORD brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; He makes the plans of the peoples of no effect. The counsel of the LORD stands forever, the plans of His heart to all generations." (Psalm 33:8-11)
2. ISRAEL RELEASES MAP OF HIZBULLAH BUNKERS IN LEBANON
An Israeli security official provided the Washington Post with a map detailing no less than 550 bunkers, 300 surveillance sites, and 100 other facilities the Jewish state believes belong to Hizbullah terrorists in Lebanon. Most of the sites marked on the map, which appeared in the American newspaper on Wednesday [March 30], are located south of the Litani River [Hizbullah weapons there would be in violation of the United Nations resolution ending the Second Lebanon War].
Ten arms caches are marked on another map featuring an aerial view of the Al Khiyam village in south Lebanon. The weapons storage facilities are located in close proximity to medical centers and schools. According to the map, one of Hizbullah's bunkers is located in a mosque.
In releasing the map, the Israeli military appeared to be trying to preempt international criticism of any future offensive against the alleged sites, many of which are located in residential villages alongside hospitals, schools and even civilian homes," the Post reported. The daily quoted a senior Israeli commander as saying, "Our interest is to show the world that the Hizbullah organization has turned these villages into fighting zones."
About six months ago, then-Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. (ret.) Gabi Ashkenazi warned that Hizbullah was establishing "rocket villages" in south Lebanon, adding that the Shiite group was using civilians and UNIFIL's lack of authority to act in order to fortify its positions and rocket launchers inside the villages. (By Ynet, Ynetnews, March 30, 2011)
- Pray for Israel as she continues to face enemies whose goal is her destruction. Pray that God would bless the IDF in their preparation and that He would prevent future conflict. Pray that God would lead the world to clearly understand the situation and support Israel.
- "When you go out to battle against your enemies, and see horses and chariots and people more numerous than you, do not be afraid of them; for the LORD your God is with you, who brought you up from the land of Egypt." (Deuteronomy 20:1)
3. IRON DOME DEPLOYED NEAR BEERSHEBA
During the preparations for the deployment of the system, which uses cameras and radar to track incoming rockets and is supposed to shoot them down within seconds of their launch, Israel conducted a test during which rockets resembling Grads were intercepted.
The security establishment said it would take some time before the system becomes fully integrated in the army's routine activity. "Israel has been under the threat of rockets for the past 20 years-since the Gulf War [the first war between Iraq and a US-led coalition]," Prime Minister [PM] Benjamin Netanyahu told Sunday's weekly cabinet meeting.
Netanyahu noted that "the Iron Dome is still being tested, and in any case, we cannot deploy batteries in such a way that they would protect every home, school, base and facility. "The true answer to the threat is a combination of offensive and deterrence measures with defense measures," and stressed that Israel "holds Hamas responsible for everything fired from the Gaza Strip," the PM said. (Excerpts, Ynetnews, March 27, 2011)
- Praise God for Israel's advances in self-defense. Pray that Israel will be able to adequately defend all her people, but that such efforts will not be made necessary by more violence.
- "He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is your shade at your right hand." (Psalm 121:3-5)
4. FACEBOOK REMOVES THIRD INTIFADA PAGE
After initially deciding not to remove a page calling for a third Palestinian Intifada, a word commonly translated as "uprising," Facebook shifted gears and deleted the page when it became apparent the site was endorsing violence.
The decision comes as groups, including the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), publicly called for Facebook to remove the page, citing the page's call for a new intifada following the previous two. The first two Palestinian intifadas included a number of acts of terrorism resulting in the deaths of hundreds of Israelis civilians.
Andrew Noyes, a spokesperson for Facebook, told Bridges for Peace in an email on Tuesday [March 29] that while they believed the page began peacefully, it eventually turned violent. After repeated warnings by Facebook to the page's administrators, the page was removed.
"The page, The Third Palestinian Intifada, began as a call for peaceful protest, even though it used a term that has been associated with violence in the past. In addition, the administrators initially removed comments that promoted violence," said Noyes. "However, after the publicity of the page, more comments deteriorated to direct calls for violence. Eventually, the administrators also participated in these calls. After administrators of the page received repeated warnings about posts that violated our policies, we removed the page."
The page had gathered hundreds of thousands of "likes" and wasn't the only page of its type. Another page entitled "Third Palestinian Intifada," but distinct from the deleted one and started prior to the removal of the original, had shot up to more than 1,000 "likes" as of Tuesday. That page, however, also included troubling content, including an Arabic post which Google translate said began with "death to Israel."
The original intifada page had threatened that its removal would lead to Muslim boycott of Facebook, but it appears that instead Facebook will be faced with a need to closely monitor copy-cat pages calling for a new intifada against Israel. The ADL, a civil rights group based in the United States, praised Facebook for the move to remove the intifada page. (Excerpts of an article By Joshua Spurlock, BFP Israel Mosaic Radio, March 29, 2011)
- Praise God that Facebook removed others' hate and calls for violence against Israel. Pray that they and other Web sites would continue to do so and that online anti-Semitism will cease. Pray that calls for violence against Israel will be unsuccessful.
- "They sharpen their tongues like a serpent; the poison of asps is under their lips. Selah. Keep me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked; preserve me from violent men, who have purposed to make my steps stumble." (Psalm 140:3-4).
5. EGYPT: NEW SIGNS OF HAMAS HEADWAY INTO NEW GOVERNMENT
A visiting Hamas leader to Cairo brought a conciliatory message amid signs [that] ties between Egypt and the Islamist movement were beginning to thaw in the post-Mubarak era. During his visit to Cairo, Mahmoud Al-Zahar, the unofficial foreign minister, met with intelligence and foreign ministry officials and is expected to meet Egyptian Foreign Minister Nabil Al-Arabi and an unnamed representative of the Supreme Military Council, the body currently running the country.
Al-Zahar said the Egyptians have promised to open the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt and improve the treatment of Gaza passengers, Egyptian daily Al-Masry Al-Youm reported.
"It's clear that the new Egyptian government will have a new policy towards Hamas," Shadi Hamid, director of research at the Brookings Doha Canter, a Qatar-based think tank. "Hamas is popular in Egypt, and the new government will have to reflect support of the Palestinian resistance. It would have been difficult to imagine such a visit only a few months ago." (Excerpt: The Media Line)
- Pray God's protection over Israel's southern border and for Israel's ultimate victory over all her enemies that plot her destruction.
- "Let those be put to shame and brought to dishonor Who seek after my life; let those be turned back and brought to confusion Who plot my hurt. And my soul shall be joyful in the LORD; it shall rejoice in His salvation." (Psalm 35:4, 9)
6. ISRAELI, RUSSIAN SPACE AGENCIES SIGN COOPERATION AGREEMENT
The Israeli and Russian space agencies signed a framework agreement on Sunday [March 27] that will enhance cooperation in a variety of space research fields and is being touted as evidence of the two nations' improved relationship. According to a press release posted on the Israeli Prime Minister's Office Web site, the agreement "enhances cooperation between the Israeli and Russian space agencies in the fields of space research, observation, navigation, medicine and biology in space, research in advanced materials and launchings."
The press release said that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Russia's Ambassador to Israel Pyotr Stegny were among the officials present at the signing. Netanyahu was in Moscow for talks with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin last week. In comments posted separately on the Prime Minister's Office Web site, the Israeli leader was quoted as saying the space cooperation was agreed to during the visit.
Israel has multiple satellites in space, with Netanyahu praising the potential for the cooperation between Israel and Russia in the space field. Netanyahu also used the space agreement to highlight the bilateral relations with Russia, as this year marks the 20th anniversary of the Russian decision to renew diplomatic relations with Israel.
Said Netanyahu of Israel's space technology, "The technology is very focused and very advanced; therefore, the combination of Russia's major and developed industry, including its technology, and Israel's developed and advanced technology, is, I believe, one that could provide major benefits to both countries. "Moreover, this genuinely reflects the impressive development of our bilateral relations, the first two decades of which we are celebrating."
(By Joshua Spurlock, BFP Israel Mosaic Radio, March 28, 2011)
- Praise God for the improved relations between Israel and Russia and pray that the bettering of the ties would continue. Pray that God will bless Israel in her efforts to be a blessing.
- "Blessed be the LORD God of Israel from everlasting to everlasting! And let all the people say, 'Amen!' Praise the LORD!" (Psalm 106:48)
7. ISRAEL TO RUSSIA: RECONSIDER SYRIA ARMS DEAL IN LIGHT OF MIDEAST TURMOIL
Jerusalem has urged Moscow to review its plans to sell anti-ship cruise missiles to Syria, Israel's ambassador to Russia was quoted as saying on Sunday, amid heightened fears the arms could fall into the hands of militants. Russia, the world's second largest arms exporter, said in February it would press ahead with plans to sell two surface-to-air rocket units armed with P-800, or 'Yakhont', missiles to Damascus in a deal worth 300 million dollars.
Israel fears the missiles, capable of hitting ships 300 km (190 miles) off Syria's coast, could end up in the hands of Lebanese guerilla group Hezbollah. "Moscow should reassess the risks of possible arms supplies to Damascus, with the country rocked by popular uprisings and instability across the Middle East," Israel's Ambassador to Russia Dorit Golender told Interfax news agency. The ambassador added that the issue was raised during talks between Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who visited Moscow on March 24. (Reuters) Read more.
- Russia's refusal to listen to Israel creates a dangerous situation for the tiny country trying to wrestle with the huge bear. No wonder that P. M. Netanyahu recently went to Moscow for talks! Pray that Syria does not have the money to buy these missiles from Russia and that Russia will change its mind about the sale. Russia is very busy moving these little countries around like pawns on a chess board, amassing her power and influence. Russia is setting up puppets - for the war of Gog and Magog? Take the sword of the Spirit and sever Russia from all her puppets.
- "Behold, I am against you, O Gog, the prince of Rosh Meshech, and Tubal." (Ezekiel 38: 3)
8. HAMAS WARNS OF "CONSEQUENCES" AFTER GAZA AIR STRIKE
Hamas on Saturday morning warned of "consequences" after an IAF air strike killed three members of its Izzadin Kassam Brigades overnight, including a senior member of the group, AFP and Palestinian news agency Ma'an reported. The Izzadin Kassam Brigades, Hamas's armed wing, warned in a statement that the air strike was a "serious escalation" and said Israel would "bear all the consequences."
Meanwhile, the DFLP in Gaza announced Saturday morning that following the strike, it was withdrawing from a recently-announced informal ceasefire, Palestinian news agency Ma'an reported. In an earlier statement, the group had urged other Palestinian terrorist groups to reconsider the ceasefire. (Jerusalem Post) Read more.
- Pray that this Hamas 'warning' is only one more example of the terrorist's groups bluffing and boasting -- nothing but empty words designed to unsettle the Israelis. Hamas is deceiving no one, especially not the Lord Pray also against the deception of Americans who would aid and abet the work of terrorism in hopes of gaining power. (There are some Americans, especially those on the left, who deny the terrorism of Hamas, and work with the terrorist group.) Pray also for the Palestinian people living in Gaza who saw life there as an opportunity to achieve a better standard of living but instead have become human shields for Hamas.
- "But the transgressors shall be destroyed together. The future of the wicked shall be cut off." (Psalm 37: 38)
9. 70 ANCIENT BOOKS UNCOVERED IN JORDAN MAY DATE TO START OF CHRISTIANITY
One of the largest and best-preserved collections of ancient sealed books has been discovered in a cave in Jordan and are believed to be some of the earliest Christian documents, according to the BBC. The 70 tiny books could date back to the first century. Carbon dating tests found that a piece of leather found with the scrolls was over 2000 years old. Experts say the books, made of lead and copper and bound by rings, may be more significant than the Dead Sea Scrolls, BBC reports.
The director of the Jordan's Department of Antiquities, Ziad al-Saad, says the books might have been made by followers of Jesus in the few decades immediately following his crucifixion. "They will really match, and perhaps be more significant than, the Dead Sea Scrolls," says Mr Saad. "Maybe it will lead to further interpretation and authenticity checks of the material, but the initial information is very encouraging, and it seems that we are looking at a very important and significant discovery, maybe the most important discovery in the history of archaeology." (BBC, Fox News)
Is this the first ever portrait of Jesus?
The image is eerily familiar: a bearded young man with flowing curly hair. After lying for nearly 2,000 years hidden in a cave in the Holy Land, the fine detail is difficult to determine. But in a certain light it is not difficult to interpret the marks around the figure's brow as a crown of thorns. ...If genuine, this could be the first-ever portrait of Jesus Christ, possibly even created in the lifetime of those who knew him. (UK Telegraph) Read more.
- Praise You, Lord, for more archeological evidence that reveals Your Word in the Middle East. From the revelation of a buckle with Goliath's name on it to mosaics and names written in stone, to evidence of the ancient Jews under the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, You are slowly and methodically bringing confirmation about Yourself to light.
- ". . . but now has been made manifest, and by the prophetic Scriptures has been made known to all nations, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, for obedience to the faith." (Romans 16:26)
News from Japan
1. UPDATE: JAPAN'S NUCLEAR CRISIS
2. JAPAN DUMPS RADIOACTIVE WATER INTO THE SEA
3. PRAY FOR THE FUKUSHIMA FIFTY
4. IDF DOCTORS IN JAPAN SUCCESSFULLY TREAT 11-MONTH-OLD BABY GIRL
5. A STRATEGY FOR PRAYER
1. UPDATE: JAPAN'S NUCLEAR CRISIS
Reactor 1
Energy Secretary Steven Chu said that roughly 70 percent of the core of reactor number 1 suffered severe damage. In other words, it came very close to a total meltdown. But things appear now to be stabilizing:
Reactor 2
Tepco announced that there is a crack in the concrete pit of reactor number 2 that is leaking radiation into the ocean from a crippled reactor. Fears over potential leaks from the plant in north-eastern Japan escalated after radioactive iodine was found in nearby seawater that is 4,385 times the legal limit. Radioactive contamination in groundwater underneath reactor No 2 has been measured at 10,000 times the government health standard.
Reactor 3
The New York Times pointed out: 'A senior nuclear executive who insisted on anonymity but has broad contacts in Japan said that there was a long vertical crack running down the side of the reactor vessel itself. The crack runs down below the water level in the reactor and has been leaking fluids and gases, he said. There is a definite, definite crack in the vessel - it's up and down and it's large," he said. "The problem with cracks is they do not get smaller."
Reactor 4
Nuclear engineer Arnie Gundersen notes that the spent fuel rods in reactor number 4 have no water, and the rods are exposed.
Check Radiation Network map for latest radiation readouts in your area. (Hebrew Nation News Alerts)
- Pray for wisdom for all in authority.
- "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him." (James 1:5)
2. JAPAN DUMPS RADIOACTIVE WATER INTO THE SEA
Japanese Nuclear Plant Starts Pumping Millions of Gallons of Radioactive Water Into Pacific
Workers began pumping more than 3 million gallons of contaminated water from Japan's tsunami-ravaged nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean on Monday, freeing storage space for even more highly radioactive water that has hampered efforts to stabilize the reactors.
It will take about two days to pump most of the less-radioactive water out of the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear complex, whose cooling systems were knocked out by the magnitude-9.0 earthquake and tsunami on March 11.
Radioactivity is quickly diluted in the ocean, and government officials said the dump should not affect the safety of seafood in the area. (Fox News) Read more
- With all respect to the Japanese authorities, radioactivity is radioactivity. Pray that the words of these officials prove to be true, for it would be a miracle, if so. In the meantime, may these dangers awaken all the lost that the writing is now on the wall: are we sure of our eternal home, if needed? Pray in the harvest.
- Has the Bible foretold this time? Consider Revelation 8:9 - "And a third of the living creatures in the sea died, and a third of the ships were destroyed." May God have mercy upon us all!
3. PRAY FOR THE FUKUSHIMA FIFTY
The situation in Japan has gone from bad to worse as the UN's nuclear agency has now detected extremely high levels of radiation outside the 12 km zone signifying the Japanese governments incompetence and lack of regard for life. However, the brave heroes of Fukushima (the Fukushima 50) have regards for their fellow brothers and sisters of the world and will be giving their lives in the ultimate display of honor for humanity. The Fukushima 50, who actually are a group of about 300 people who have been working in shifts of 50, have become heroes in Japan and are known as atomic "samurai." (Hebrew Nation News Alerts)
- "Abba, we lift up these brave engineers who being exposed to deadly amounts of radiation in a valiant effort to save lives. We ask for supernatural protection for them. Would you put a supernatural lead shield all about them and protect them from this deadly radiation? Please protect and preserve their lives. Please comfort their loves ones. Please bring many people to salvation in Yeshua through these dark times. In Yeshua's name, Amen."
- "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28)
4. IDF DOCTORS IN JAPAN SUCCESSFULLY TREAT 11-MONTH-OLD BABY GIRL
On Wednesday morning (March 30), an 11-month old baby girl, whose house was destroyed in the tsunami, was brought in by her grandmother to the Israel Defense Forces' [IDF] medical clinic in Minami-Sanriko, Japan. The girl was suffering from an eye infection and was successfully treated. According to the Jerusalem Post, the grandmother was given medicine, instructed how to treat the child, and sent out with gifts of diapers and toys.
Numerous Japanese patients arrived at the clinic on Wednesday with a wide range of medical issues. The patients were treated by the professional Israeli medical team at the advanced clinic with the help of local Israelis serving as translators.
On Tuesday, after an extensive logistical effort, the IDF humanitarian aid delegation in Japan opened an advanced medical clinic in the Miyagi district. The opening ceremony, which included a moment of silence, was attended by the mayors of two towns that suffered losses and destruction in the tsunami. The mayors thanked the delegation for coming to aid the Japanese people.
Within minutes of the end of the ceremony, patients began to be seen by doctors at the clinic. The mayor of Minami was the first patient to receive care in the clinic, as he feared that his ribs had been recently broken. In the coming days, patients will receive a wide range of medical care from the Medical Corps doctors deployed at the clinic.
(From IDF press releases; March 30, 2011)
- Praise God for Israel's valuable medical assistance! Pray for the medical team's safety, especially from any harmful radiation. Pray that many will be blessed by Israel's outreached arm to the suffering.
- "You have made the earth tremble; You have broken it; heal its breaches, for it is shaking . . . that Your beloved may be delivered, save with Your right hand, and hear me." (Psalm 60:2, 5)
Editor's Note from Bridges for Peace:
Some of the translators assisting the medical team are staff members of our BFP Japan office. If you would like to help Israel be a light to the nations and finance the IDF medical mission, you can donate to our Help Japan fund by going to our Web site at www.bridgesforpeace.com
5. A STRATEGY FOR PRAYER
"Abraham's Intercession"
Abraham interceded for the righteous that may have been there in Sodom and Gomorrah.
He began his intercession by asking the Lord a question. "Will you sweep away both the righteous and the wicked? "(Verse 23).
POINT #1
And so it was that Abraham began his prayer for the righteous to be saved.
I believe that is the cry of an intercessor for this hour.
POINT #2
And for those who are to come, those God knows belong to Him, but as of yet, have not.
That is a very sobering statement found in john 17:20. Jesus is saying that He not only prays for those who already believe i
n Him , but has included those also who WILL believe in Him.POINT #3
Jude 20-"praying in the Spirit"!
From: Julie in Hawaii
More International News
1. UNREPORTED SOROS EVENT AIMS TO REMAKE ENTIRE GLOBAL ECONOMY
2. SAUDI ARABIA URGES TEHRAN TO MIND ITS OWN BUSINESS
3. GCC FOREIGN MINISTERS DEBATE IRAN "MEDDLING" IN REGION
4. IRANIAN REGIME STATES COMING OF "12TH MAHDI" IS NEAR
5. LIBYAN REBEL COMMANDER FOUGHT US IN AFGHANISTAN
6. TWO QADDAFI SONS OFFER PLAN TO OUST FATHER
7. IVORY COAST: AID WORKERS FIND 1,000 BODIES IN DUEKOUE
8. JUDGE RICHARD GOLDSTONE ADMITS REPORT WAS IN ERROR
9. P.M. NETANYAHU CALLS ON U.N. TO CANCEL THE GOLDSTONE REPORT
1. UNREPORTED SOROS EVENT AIMS TO REMAKE ENTIRE GLOBAL ECONOMY
Left-wing billionaire's own experts dominate quiet push for 'a grand bargain that rearranges the entire financial order.' Two years ago, George Soros said he wanted to reorganize the entire global economic system. In two short weeks, he is going to start - and no one seems to have noticed.
On April 8, a group he's funded with $50 million is holding a major economic conference and Soros's goal for such an event is to "establish new international rules" and "reform the currency system." It's all according to a plan laid out in a Nov. 4, 2009, Soros op-ed calling for "a grand bargain that rearranges the entire financial order."
The event is bringing together "more than 200 academic, business and government policy thought leaders' to repeat the famed 1944 Bretton Woods gathering that helped create the World Bank and International Monetary Fund. Soros wants a new 'multilateral system," or an economic system where America isn't so dominant. (Business and Media Institute) Read more.
To learn more about the site of this event, go here.
- Father, as Gideon broke pitchers of water and scattered the armies of Midian, we pray that You will take faithful intercessor warriors and scatter these insidious enemies of America. We ask that You cut off all plans of the socialist one-world agenda, and protect us against any actions that are not being attempted according to Your timing of the end of days.
- "...but it shall not succeed or be to his advantage." (Daniel 11:17c Amplified)
2. SAUDI ARABIA URGES TEHRAN TO MIND ITS OWN BUSINESS
Saudi Arabia has urged Iran to mind its own business and condemned comments made by a parliamentary panel in Tehran warning that Riyadh was "playing with fire" by deploying troops in Bahrain. "Iran's statement deliberately ignores Iran's interference in the region's affairs and its violation of the independence and sovereignty of the region," an unnamed government official said late on Friday, quoted by state news agency SPA.
On Thursday, the Iranian parliament's foreign affairs and national security committee said: "Saudi Arabia should know it's better not to play with fire in the sensitive region of the Persian Gulf." Riyadh's retort was to accuse Tehran of "fuelling confessional tensions (in the region) and failing to respect the norms of good neighborliness as in the case of Kuwait where a spy cell has been uncovered." Iran was "ignoring the fact they have no right to violate Bahrain's sovereignty, or to involve themselves in its affairs or that of any other Gulf state or to attempt to deprive Bahrain from its legitimate right to seek the help of al-Jazeerah (Peninsula) Shield " the government official said.
Saudi Arabia heads a joint contingent of Gulf troops deployed in Bahrain on March 14 in support of the kingdom's forces in Bahrain, which have faced anti-regime protests since mid-February. Tehran condemned the deployment and has denied any link to three people convicted of spying in Kuwait and sentenced to death last Tuesday. (SPA)
- For once we can agree with Saudi Arabia in its defense in Bahrain. Iran is stirring up the many Shi'ites that live in Bahrain, where the ruling sheikh is a Sunni. Some friends who lived in Bahrain and have just moved back to the USA report that they have seen these unsettling events coming for the last four years. Please pray for the sovereignty of Bahrain to remain intact and free from the violent influence from Iran. The Lord will have to intervene in this situation, for Iran thinks it is bringing back the 12th iman with the chaos and violence and not likely to give up its plots and plans.
- "The wicked plots against the just, and gnashes at him with his teeth. The Lord laughs at him, for He sees that his day is coming." (Psalm 37: 12,13)
3. GCC FOREIGN MINISTERS DEBATE IRAN "MEDDLING" IN REGION
Gulf Arab foreign ministers meet Sunday in the Saudi capital to discuss Iranian interference in the region after a wave of unrest that has rocked the Arab world spilled over into some of the Western-backed monarchies. The extraordinary meeting comes after Tehran warned Riyadh that it was "playing with fire" by deploying troops in neighboring Shiite-majority Bahrain while Kuwait claimed it had broken an Iranian spy ring.
On Saturday, the new Gulf Cooperation Council secretary general, Abdullatif al-Zayani, condemned "Iran's meddling in the internal affairs of GCC countries" saying it "threatened security and stability in the region". Saudi Arabia led a joint Gulf force that entered Bahrain last month, enabling authorities to quell a month-long Shiite-led protest demanding democratic reforms in the tiny kingdom.
On Thursday Iranian parliament's national security committee said in a statement carried by state media that "Saudi Arabia knows better than any other country that in the sensitive region of the Persian Gulf, playing with fire is not in its interest," in an apparent reference to the dispatch of Saudi forces to Bahrain.
In addition to Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, the GCC groups include Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. (AlArabiya.net, Agencies)
- Praise the Lord that the Sunni counties recognize the Shi'a Iran for what it is: a cruel regime run by madmen and a threat to the whole world. Particularly threatened are the rich oil fields that have given the Sunnis so much wealth. Pray that much wisdom came out of these meetings to restore some stability to the region, for the Iranian regime is simply not interested in stability. We might also pray that Iran annoys Russia, who will sever her ties with this mad regime. Continue to pray for protection for the Christians who live in Iran. Thank the Lord that the region's foreign ministers are taking some responsibility for the current situation and beginning to apply pressure to Iran to stand down. Pray!
- "But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest; whose waters cast up mire and dirt. There is no peace, says my God for the wicked." (Isaiah 57: 20, 21)
4. IRANIAN REGIME STATES COMING OF "12TH MAHDI" IS NEAR
New evidence has emerged that the Iranian government sees the current unrest in the Middle East as a signal that the Mahdi--or Islamic messiah--is about to appear. CBN News has obtained a never-before-seen video produced by the Iranian regime that says all the signs are moving into place -- and that Iran will soon help usher in the end times.
While the revolutionary movements gripping the Middle East have created uncertainty throughout the region, the video shows that the Iranian regime believes the chaos is divine proof that their ultimate victory is at hand.
Rule #1 in Warfare: KNOW YOUR ENEMY. MUST SEE video to understand your enemy!
Read more from CBN
Read more by Reza Kahlili
- We prayerfully recommend that you do NOT "watch the video" but rather simply read the text material about its contents. The LORD exhorts us in Scripture to beware of what we see and hear, but to instead "guard our hearts." Thank goodness for His Blood that cleanses us and sets us free!
In the meantime, the enemy always counterfeits what God is doing . . . and OUR LORD IS COMING SOON. As we anticipate this day with great joy in our hearts, let us press in even more fervently for the deliverance of those Moslems who will view this film -- that they see through its deception; not fall prey to its violent agenda; and find salvation through the Blood of the Lamb.
- "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9)
5. LIBYAN REBEL COMMANDER FOUGHT US IN AFGHANISTAN
Abdel-Hakim al-Hasidi, the Libyan rebel leader, is associated with al-Qaeda and has fought against allied troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. He was captured in Pakistan in 2002 and held somewhere by the US until 2008 when he returned to Libya. In an interview with the Italian newspaper Sole 24 Ore, al-Hasidi confirmed he recruited "around 25" men from the Derna area in eastern Libya to fight against coalition troops in Iraq. Some of them, he said, "today are on the front lines in Adjabiya". (RFC)
b.Washington in fierce debate on arming Libyan rebels - MSNBC
The Obama administration is engaged in a fierce debate over whether to supply weapons to the rebels in Libya, senior officials said on Tuesday, with some fearful that providing arms would deepen American involvement in a civil war and that some fighters may have links to Al Qaeda.
c. Obama aides find moral clarity in Libya's foggy war- Washington Examiner
"I swore to myself that if I ever faced such a crisis again," Susan Rice said about the 1994 genocide in Rwanda, "I would come down on the side of dramatic action, going down in flames if that was required." Now that Rice is U.S. ambassador to the United Nations and played a leading role in the Obama administration's decision to attack Libya, this passage from a 2001 Atlantic Monthly article is striking -- all the more so because the author was Samantha Power, now a special assistant to the president at the National Security Council.
- Lord, since our government has no clue who the rebels really are, we ask that clarity and information that is truthful be widely known before any decision is made to arm Libyan rebels. Father, we seek democracy and freedom for the Libyan people, but we ask for protection for them and the world against incursion of jihadist influences.
- "Oh, do not remember former iniquities against us! Let Your tender mercies come speedily to meet us, for we have been brought very low." (Psalm 79:8)
6. TWO QADDAFI SONS OFFER PLAN TO OUST FATHER
At least two sons of Muammar al-Qaddafi are reportedly proposing a resolution to the ongoing Libyan conflict that would push their father aside to make way for a transition to a constitutional democracy, a diplomat and a Libyan official said Sunday. It's not immediately clear whether Qaddafi, 68, backs the proposal by his sons, Seif and Saadi al-Qaddafi, although one person close to the son told the New York Times that the father appeared willing to go along with the plan.
A representative of the rebels, Ali al-Essawi, the former Libyan ambassador to India, said on Monday in Rome that it was unacceptable to replace Qaddafi with one of his sons. "There's no way to replace Qaddafi with a small Qaddafi," he told the newspaper in an interview. (Fox News) Read more
- The Lord has a plan for the nation of Libya, and He IS the governor of the nations. Pray in the Spirit in all matters related to the nation of Libya, calling forth His Kingdom purposes for this land and for its people. He reigns!
- "For the kingdom is the LORD's: and he is the governor among the nations." (Psalm 22:28)
7. IVORY COAST: AID WORKERS FIND 1,000 BODIES IN DUEKOUE
The single biggest atrocity in the long battle for control of Ivory Coast has emerged after aid workers discovered the bodies of up to 1,000 people in the town of Duekoue. Charity workers who reached Duekoue said it appeared the killings had taken place in a single day, shortly after the town fell to troops loyal to Alassane Ouattara, the man internationally-recognised as having won last year's presidential election. (Rapture Ready News)
[Note: this article was posted yesterday on the online site for the UK Telegraph, but it has since been pulled.] - For a commentary on the situation in the Ivory Coast, please see the Daily Jot, below.
8. BREAKING NEWS FROM ISRAEL:
JUDGE RICHARD GOLDSTONE ADMITS REPORT WAS IN ERROR
PA plans to continue to use flawed UN document
South African judge Richard Goldstone wrote an op-ed in the Washington Post on Friday in which he retracted the accusations against Israel found in the UN report which bore his name following the UN investigation he led into the conduct of Operation Cast Lead in Gaza in 2009.
"We know a lot more today about what happened in the Gaza war of 2008-09 than we did when I chaired the fact-finding mission appointed by the U.N. Human Rights Council that produced what has come to be known as the Goldstone Report. If I had known then what I know now, the Goldstone Report would have been a different document."
Despite Goldstone's retraction, the Palestinian Authority announced on Sunday that it still intends to use the discredited Goldstone Report to substantiate calls for Israel to be condemned for "war crimes" in Gaza - both at the United Nations and the International Criminal Court. The Islamist terror militia Hamas, which rules the Gaza Strip and which was also indicted in the Goldstone Report for deliberately targeting civilians, also condemned Goldstone's retraction without responding to his affirmation that those parts of the report critical of them are still valid. To read Goldstone's editorial in the Washington Post, click HERE.
9. P.M. NETANYAHU CALLS ON U.N. TO CANCEL THE GOLDSTONE REPORT
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu today (Saturday), 2 April 2011, has called upon the UN to immediately cancel the Goldstone Report:
"Everything we said has proven to be true: Israel did not intentionally harm civilians, its institutions and investigative bodies are worthy, while Hamas intentionally fired upon innocent civilians and did not examine anything. The fact that Goldstone backtracked must lead to the shelving of this report once and for all." (Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs) Readmore
- Offer a great chorus of PRAISE that the righteous have been vindicated, and intercede that the United Nations will, indeed, withdraw this report.
- "For the LORD loves justice, And does not forsake His saints; They are preserved forever, But the descendants of the wicked shall be cut off. The righteous shall inherit the land, And dwell in it forever." (Psalm 37:28,29)
The Daily Jot
The Islamic massacre in Ivory Coast--Type and shadow of America?
Most people have heard that there was a massacre of some 1,000 people in the small West African country of Ivory Coast. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said the United States is "deeply concerned" about the protection of human rights there and has called for President Laurent Gbagbo to step down immediately to prevent further slaughtering of innocents. But the United States, the United Nations and Europe seem to be on the wrong end of this political quagmire that is rift with parallels to the 2008 elections in the United States and perhaps a glimpse of what can go wrong when people do not honor the laws of God and keep the Constitutional laws of a sovereign nation.
It is the forces of Alassane Ouattara who are slaughtering people by the hundreds in villages across the Ivory Coast. He is the man that the White House and the United Nations is supporting. Ouattara was a candidate in the 2010 Ivory Coast presidential election. And he claimed victory. The president, Gbagbo, however, has not conceded the election, bringing death and destruction throughout the country. The problem is very similar to America. To be president of the Ivory Coast, one's parents must both be born there. Ouattara, a Muslim, claims that he and his parents are of native birth. But he was accused of forging his nationality certificate issued in September 1999. In fact, it was annulled by the court a month later.
Ouattara was disqualified from the country's 2000 presidential election because he did not meet the Constitutional requirement of his birth. He ran again in 2010 anyway, claiming to win. Amid voter fraud claims, however, the nation's Constitutional Council, which officially validates the elections, said 500,000 of Ouattara's votes were disqualified. Gbagbo has remained president despite tremendous pressure from the UN and the US to step down. He says its a matter of national sovereignty. Since then, Gbagbo has been accused of instituting death squads that kill Ouattara supporters but in reality, Ouattara's forces have been killing people--killing Christians as Gbagbo is a Catholic.
The dispute in the Ivory Coast began with a Muslim who was ineligible to run for president because he could not prove his birth records, continued with voter fraud to the point that the nation's Constitutional Council invalidated the election, and now has turned into a Muslim slaughter of Christians. This lawlessness and usurping of power by Muslims is widespread and takes many forms. In reality, it comes from people denying God as Islam is a direct denial of God. Joshua 24:20 says, "If you forsake the Lord, and serve strange gods, then he will turn and do you harm, and consume you, after that he hath done you good." Its time for us to wake up, the man occupying the Oval Office announced his bid for reelection today.
Bill Wilson
Word of Life Ministry
www.dailyjot.com
On Capitol Hill This Week - Volume XVIII, Number 13c
FOCUS ON THE MIDDLE EAST
ROLL CALL OF THE NATIONS (Outside of Israel)
BACKGROUND:
All the major cities of North Africa have seen massive protests. Some protests are being tolerated and dispersed with lower levels of force, as in Morocco and Algeria. The significance of the events now unfolding in the Arab World is perhaps greater than anyone can fathom or describe. From the day Simon of Cyrene carried the cross for Jesus, to the day of Pentecost, through the martyrdom of countless thousands, North Africans have been in the heart of our heavenly Father. The cries from the hearts of the North African people are the cries of people made in God's image, longing and thirsting for justice, for freedom, for equality, for dignity. Their cries are echoed across the Arab World - these people want justice in the place of corruption, they want their dignity as human beings in the place of fear, they want truth in the place of lies and censorship, they want their freedom of conscience to express their personal opinions without being beaten or imprisoned or mysteriously "disappearing." They want to choose their leaders, replacing those who are corrupt or ineffective in providing employment, social services and good leadership; rather than being forced to watch their leaders become rich through corruption and injustice.
1. LIBYA: Fighting and Disunity Run Rampant
The nation including its leader Gaddafi is heavily involved in witchcraft and wears an amulet to make him "invincible". Gaddafi's son is a key leader and supports his father. All citizens in Libya were put through a blood covenant requiring them to give blood. Libya has tribal factions that continue to fight and hate.
2. EGYPT: Division in the Midst of Freedom
After Hosni Mubarak stepped down, Coptic and Evangelical Christians conducted mass and worshiped opening for the first time in a long time in the square. However, the Christian community is divided with some wanting revolution and other afraid of it. Some Islamic groups excited about the future. The Muslim Brotherhood's political party presents themselves as leaders of the revolution. The Doors are open for true reform.
3. BAHRAIN: Peaceful Transition?
Bahrain's ruling family has listened to protesters and started a dialogue between the two groups. They are also respecting their right to protest. The Internet provides information on the Gospel and Christ, and the Bible can be downloaded in Arabaic. Forums and chat rooms are used to explain the gospel. Bahrain Christians face discouragement, illness, and difficult times. It is not easy to trust in Him daily and draw on His strength.
4. TUNISIA: Peace in Persecution and Death Threats
The Muslim Brotherhood, back after being banished for more than 23 years, wants the Jasmine revolution to be a religious one. Protests for separation of state and religion occur in the capital. Some Christians are scared; others braver. Pray for Tunisian Christians as they face persecution and increased death threats. Ask God to strengthen them. Pray that the persecutors' hearts will turn.
5. YEMEN: A Country Seeking to Restore its Reputation
Most Yemenis, disgusted with the negative international picture that is portrayed by most media channels, love their country and seek a restored reputation. One of the president's slogans sums up much of the Yemeni worldview, "To preserve and protect!" The country is ruled by a tribal system with groups in both north and south wanting to secede from the country. Violent uprisings and daily demonstrations in most of the main cities have occurred.
6. ALGERIA: From Political Change to Spiritual Hunger
The Algerian people hunger for freedoms many consider basic, and now most protests are political in nature, but such massive change can produce a spiritual hunger for truth and God. The Algerian youth have organized and performed many demonstrations to bring about immediate change to ensure a better future. The government seems to be willing to accommodate; however, it is unclear if this is done to placate the protestors or if it is a sincere desire to make things better for the people.
7. JORDAN: Stability in the Midst of Change
The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is a small island of peace and political and economic stability. It is a refuge for Palestinian and Iraqi refugees. It is an economic hub for international business. In recent years, Christians have seen God open doors for many to hear the Truth and respond. Despite 95% Sunni Muslims, the Church is a protected minority and worships freely. King Abdullah champions the Inter-faith dialogue and is the initiator of the Amman Message (2005), one of the main voices of the Reform Movement within Islam today.
8. SYRIA: Balance of Power
Syria's government is a confused balance of secular ideals and practices and combines limited support for Hezbollah with a strong anti-western stance. Its peoples have limited freedom of expression and fear of secret police. Chrisitans, however, have freedom to operate openly, but government informers infiltrate most churches. Recent crackdowns on evangelical churches have struck fear, but the gospel goes forward. The number of new believers grow.
9. MOROCCO: Hopes and Challenges for the Future
Moroccan Christians are at the point of choosing to either deny their Lord or suffer. With 150 westerners and NGO workers forced to leave in 2010 for alleged proselytism, believers' peaceful coexistence has been shaken. Protests are contained because of limited freedom of expression. Despite increased economic opportunities and liberalization, poverty is still widespread and unemployment remains high.
10. IRAQ: Open Hearts are Finding Christ
Iraqis have shown patience and forgiveness for the good of the country since the 2003 war. A smaller group, however, works to stir up violence. Iraq's future rests on the outcome of this struggle. The Christian minority has suffered attacks over the last few years. Many seek to leave the country; others stay with hopes for the future and reach out to compassion. A significant number of Muslim Iraqis are finding Christ.
11. SAUDI ARABIA: Inevitable Change
Women aren't allowed to drive or travel without a male relative, and some girls are forced to marry before age 13. Many who are wealthy, travel, and watch TV shows ask, "Why can the rest of the world live in freedom, and we need to live like this?" Cultural strain is intense; change is seen by most as inevitable. Raids on underground churches have stopped almost completely -an answer to years of prayers.
12. OMAN: Hopes and Challenges for the Future
The Oman Muslim community looks to Christians as a guide to family living. The Christian families there find opportunities in their daily lives to be examples of a Christ-loving family. Let us lift up all the Omanis who have heard the Story of the Son, but have not received Him. Many have heard, the seeds have been spread, and now the seeds need to take root quickly.
13. QATAR: Spiritual Awakening in Comfort
Qataris live a comfortable, wealthy life and hope to see a spiritual awakening. From a worker in Qatar: "We've lived in our home for 6 years and this is the first time we've seen our cactus bloom. We've also witnessed glimpses of 'flowers' blooming in the lives of our friends here, being slowly but surely transformed by the love and grace of our Lord Jesus! Now, may the desert blossom more with the flowers of His love and truth!" Believers, isolated, lonely, and scared, do not have contact with one another or expatriate believers.
14. KUWAIT: Discontent in the Midst of Wealth
Kuwaiti life seems good coming from oil wealth. However, some are not satisfied and turn to drugs, alcohol, or street racing for excitement and meaning to life. In January, scared by the Arab world events, the government gave $3500 bonus to all Kuwaitis plus free food for the next year. Many doubt that cash will appease people's demands for inclusion in governing their country. Christianity is seen as supporting "Hollywood" values of immorality and greed. But a growing number of Kuwaitis are becoming Christians through the witness and example of the foreign workers.
15. UAE (United Arab Emirates): New Development from Within
Different rates of development mean that some Emiratis are incredibly wealthy while the lives of others remain more modest. Some are concerned at the loss of local traditional values in the great rush to modernization. Others think flamboyant building projects like The Palm or Khalifa Tower could destabilize the country financially. A large number of expatriate university students are Christians and are interacting with the younger generation of Emiratis who will lead the country in the near future. One secret believer here confided to a worker that she fellowships with "people in another town who believe the way we do!" Praise God for believers finding one another in UAE.
16. LEBANON: Spiritual Awakening
Catholic, Orthodox and Evangelical believers in Lebanon are showing signs of spiritual awakening. Muslims here are have a new hunger and openness, but there are few here to reach out to them. The country is politically divided and the division affects people groups and churches. This nation seeks a new government that will fear God, make wise decisions, and act in mercy for the good of the nation.
17. SUDAN: A New Country
Since 2005, when the Comprehensive Peace Agreement was signed and their civil war was ended, Sudan has seen a steady decrease in violence and political tension. On July 9, 2011, a referendum for Southern Sudan's independence succeeded. President Omar al-Bashir seemed cooperative and peaceful through the process. Protestors against his leadership have not been overly violent or destructive. Christians see prayer as vital for the past and the future. Many Christians in the north have moved to South Sudan to start a new life; but Christian influence thus lessens. Recently, many churches in the North have worked together to distribute 1 million copies of the Gospel of Luke to help ensure that the Word of God will stay even if they do not.
Prayer Requests for the Nations of the Middle East
FOCUS ON THE MIDDLE EAST
PRAYER REQUESTS
For all the requests listed below, please join us in decreeing Eccesiastes 3:14.
IT IS WRITTEN: "No enemy can destroy His plans and purposes, and nothing can be added or taken away from His destiny for us all."
How do we pray for all these lands?
- That the civil unrest spreading throughout North Africa and the Middle East will be an open door for the Gospel to reach many Muslims.
- That the Lord will continue shaking this region, toppling spiritual strongholds and setting the captives free.
- That Christians will seize this opportunity to share the love of God with their Muslim neighbors, friends and coworkers. Pray for them to be bold, strong and courageous
- That the Holy Spirit will build the Church and give Christians wisdom in how to pray and what to do during this time of turmoil.
- That protesters will realize Jesus Christ is the answer to their discontent. Pray for them to put their faith in Him as Savior and Lord.
- That the leaders in all of the nations where demonstrations are taking place will be saved.
- That a great harvest of souls will result from these events.
- That the Kingdom of God will come to North Africa, the Middle East, and the entire Arab world with power, signs and wonders. (Source: Excerpted and summarized from Global Prayer MinistriesOM USA)
This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
YOUR NAME (Sheem-kha)
"All the earth shall worship You And sing praises to You; They shall sing praises to Your name." (Psalm 66:4)
Your Name is the Name Above all Names; how blessed I am to know Your name. How I praise Your Name. There is power in Your name, healing in Your name, and help in Your name. There is everything I need -- in Your name. Amen! "
"Praise the LORD!
Praise, O servants of the LORD,
Praise the name of the LORD!" (Psalm 113:1)
(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)
