On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVIII, No. 32

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Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
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On Capitol Hill This Week Volume XVIII, Number 32a
October 24 - 28, 2011

DOMESTIC ISSUES

"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." (Hebrews 13:8)

The Senate is out of session this week, and the House is in session.

On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVIII, No. 32a

1. FEMA PLANS FIRST-EVER NATIONWIDE EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEM TEST
2. WORDS OF WISDOM TO OBAMA FROM SENATE GOP LEADER MCCONNELL
3. SENATE VOTES DOWN TRIMMED VERSION OF OBAMA'S JOBS BILL
4. NAPOLITANO: DHS AUTHORIZING ILLEGAL ALIENS TO WORK IN U.S
5. REP. JESSE JACKSON JR. DEMANDS OBAMA SUSPEND CONSTITUTION TO CREATE JOBS
6. OBAMA OPPOSES REPEAL OF HEALTHCARE PROGRAM SUSPENDED LAST WEEK
7. OBAMA ADMIN. HIDES PUBLIC COMMENTS AGAINST OBAMACARE MANDATE
8. SEBELIUS ADMIN. DESTROYED RECORDS IN CASE AGAINST PLANNED PARENTHOOD
9. SOCIAL SECURITY PAYMENTS WILL INCREASE BEGINNING IN 2012
10. CAIR DEMANDS MILITARY CHANGE UNIFORMS
11. FACTORS DECIDING CONTROL OF THE HOUSE IN 2012
12. 10/15/11: THE DAY OBAMA'S ARMY OCCUPIED THE FREE WORLD

1. FEMA PLANS FIRST-EVER NATIONWIDE EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEM TEST

On November 9, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will conduct the first-ever nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) at 2 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST), a test that will last for approximately three minutes. The EAS is a system designed to transmit emergency alerts and warnings to the public at the national, state, and local levels. The purpose of the test is to assess the reliability and effectiveness of the system as a way to alert the public during nationwide emergencies.

Although the EAS test will be initiated by FEMA, the FCC is telling local governments they can use the test as an opportunity to work with local broadcasters and cable providers to educate appropriate government officials and staff about the EAS, such as how it works and when it should be activated. Finally, the FCC is asking local government officials to help inform residents in advance of the test, so that they will know what to expect. (National League of Cities) Read more.

- Lift up a prayer that, on Wednesday, November 9, the public be fully aware of the activities related to this FEMA exercise, so as to not cause unnecessary panic. Pray that those in authority inside FEMA and the FCC will move in perfect synchronicity with each other, so that all lines of communication will be working at 100% capacity. Pray, too, that at the end of the day, any lessons to be learned from this exercise will be duly noted and corrected. In His Name, amen.

- "The eyes of the LORD are toward the righteous And His ears are open to their cry." (Psalm 34:15)

2. WORDS OF WISDOM TO OBAMA FROM SENATE GOP LEADER MCCONNELL

"It's completely preposterous at a time when 14 million Americans are looking for a job in this country for the President to be riding around on a bus saying we should raise taxes - on the very folks who create jobs. Think about that: We've got 14 million people out of work, and two self-identified conservatives for every liberal in this country, and the President's out there doing his best Howard Dean impersonation. He's completely out of touch. Let's forget about tax hikes. Let's drop the talking points about millionaires and billionaires. And let's work together on bipartisan jobs legislation that's designed to pass, not fail."

That is a quote from the outstanding speech by Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell from Kentucky on the Senate floor on Wednesday. The Senate leader is obviously getting fed-up with the non-stop reelection campaigning by Barack Obama who has refused - since his devastating defeat in last year's mid-term election and the turn-over of the United States House of Representatives to the Republicans - to govern America. (Christian Coalition of America)

- Sen. Mitch McConnell expresses the annoyance of many, many Americans with this current president, who seems oblivious to any concerns except his own. Ask the Lord to remove Obama's grasp on taxpayer funds and teach him how to manage his own funds and those accrued by his wife Michelle. Sen. McConnell should stay in the fight against the president's wasteful behavior, for it is the responsibility of Congress to call the executive branch to account.

- "Lord, how long will the wicked , how long will the wicked triumph?" (Psalm 94:3)

3. SENATE VOTES DOWN TRIMMED VERSION OF OBAMA'S JOBS BILL

Despite a campaign-style push this week by President Barack Obama, the Senate on Thursday scuttled pared-back jobs legislation aimed at helping state and local governments avoid layoffs of teachers and firefighters.

Obama's three-day bus tour through North Carolina and Virginia -- states crucial to his re-election race next year -- didn't change any minds among Senate Republicans, who filibustered Obama's latest jobs measure to death just as they killed his broader $447 billion jobs plan last week.

Obama said in a statement that it was "unacceptable" that Republicans would again obstruct a bill that would "create jobs and get our economy going again." "For the second time in two weeks, every single Republican in the United States Senate has chosen to obstruct a bill that would create jobs and get our economy going again. That's unacceptable. We must do what's right for the country and pass the common-sense proposals in the American Jobs Act," he said. . . (Fox News)

- Continue to ask our Lord to grant His wisdom to the members of the House and the Senate, to break the current impasse in unemployment and write legislation that would move our economy forward again. May they come up with a commonsense bill that would meet the needs of American workers and their employers in this still great nation. Amen.

- "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." (James 1:5)

4. NAPOLITANO: DHS AUTHORIZING ILLEGAL ALIENS TO WORK IN U.S.

The Department of Homeland Security has a policy of allowing some illegal aliens to work in the United States, confirmed agency head Janet Napolitano, reports CNSNews.com. "Prosecutorial discretion" gives the agency leeway, Napolitano told the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday.

"According to the information from your department, some individuals who are given relief will obtain work authorizations. So people with no right to be in the country will be allowed to work here. Is that correct?" asked Sen. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa.

Napolitano said a policy allowing illegals to work has been in place since 1986, but did not name the policy. CNS News points out that late President Ronald Reagan signed into law the Simpson-Mazzoli Act that year, which allowed illegal aliens who had entered the United States before Jan. 1, 1982, to request a change of work status. It is unclear whether or not Napolitano was referring to this legislation or how it would apply to current cases. (CNSNews.com)

- Abba Father, deliver us from lying tongues and twisted deceptions. Have Mercy, Lord, on this nation. We fall in repentance before You and ask for forgiveness for our sins and lawlessness. Our constitutional laws are based on Your Word and are being damaged, and destroyed through acts of deception, schemes and lies. Deliver us Lord Jesus, Amen!

- "There are six things the Lord hates. Yes seven are an abomination to Him. A proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans.; feet that are swift in running to evil; a false witness who speaks lies, and one who sows discord among brethren." (Proverbs 6:16-19)

5. REP. JESSE JACKSON JR. DEMANDS OBAMA SUSPEND CONSTITUTION
TO CREATE JOBS

Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr., D-Ill., drew heavy criticism from fellow Democrats and his Republican colleagues for demanding Obama suspend the U.S. Constitution and declare a national jobs emergency. Jackson told The Daily Caller last week that the president should use "extra-constitutional" authority to resolve the employment crisis by creating jobs outside of the normal legislative process. His comments drew immediate criticism from his primary opponent as well as other members of the House of Representatives. Former congresswoman Debbie Halvorson, Jackson's Democratic opponent in next year's primary election, said he has failed to introduce a jobs bill during his 16 years in the House. (Yahoo News) Read more.

- God, we ask that this demand be met with defeat, and that these words against our Constitution and our economy fall to the ground and die. Lord, take our economy out of the hands of erratic leaders and transfer it back into the hands of democratic-minded Americans who have followed the precepts of God and our Constitution to provide jobs for our people. We pray that the wealth of the wicked will be stored up for the righteous and jobs will continue to be created to provide for a healthy American economy. We call out to a merciful Father to provide for Your people. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

- [For this statement by Rep. Jackson] " . . . the voices of the nobles were hushed, and their tongues stuck to the roof of their mouths." (Job 29:10)

6. OBAMA OPPOSES REPEAL OF HEALTHCARE PROGRAM SUSPENDED LAST WEEK

Obama is against repealing the health law's long-term-care CLASS Act and might veto Republican efforts to do so, an administration official tells The Hill, despite the government's announcement Friday that the program was dead in the water. "We do not support repeal," the official said Monday. "Repealing the CLASS Act isn't necessary or productive. What we should be doing is working together to address the long-term care challenges we face in this country."

Over the weekend, The Hill has learned, an administration official called advocates of the Community Living Assistance Services and Supports (CLASS) Act to reassure them that Obama is still committed to making the program work. That official also told advocates that widespread media reports on the program's demise were wrong, leaving advocates scratching their heads.

Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced Friday in a blog post on the liberal Huffington Post website that the administration did not see a way to make the program sustainable. Sebelius indicated her agency hadn't been able to figure out a way to ensure the program providing long-term care paid for itself as required by law.

Later in a call with reporters on Friday, an HHS official said work on the program was being suspended. "We won't be working further to implement the CLASS Act. . . . We don't see a path forward to be able to do that," Assistant Secretary for Aging Kathy Greenlee told reporters on Friday. (The Hill; 10/17/11 ) Read more.

- Abba Father, have mercy upon us and deliver us from any and all aspects of the government-dictated, controlled heath care schemes. Past history shows how poorly governmentally controlled programs are administered and conditions in the EU reinforce how unworkable and sustainable they are. Free us Lord! We as Your remnant bride know that from You and You alone can we be delivered from all evil intentions of the enemy arising out of this hideous law. In Jesus' blessed name we pray, Amen and Amen.

- "If You Lord, should mark iniquities, O Lord, who could stand? But there is forgiveness with You, that You may be feared. I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in His Word I do hope. My soul waits for the Lord, More than those who watch for the morning - Yes, more than those who watch for the morning." (Psalm 130:3-6)


7. OBAMA ADMIN. HIDES PUBLIC COMMENTS AGAINST OBAMACARE MANDATE

The Obama administration today is coming under fire from pro-life advocates who submitted tens of thousands of public comments opposing a new mandate that would force insurance companies to cover birth control, contraception and drugs that may cause abortions. The administration has initially approved a recommendation from the Institute of Medicine suggesting that it force insurance companies to pay for birth control and drugs that can cause abortions under the Obamacare government-run health care program.

Several leading pro-life groups - including the Family Research Council and the nation's Catholic bishops, among others - had led the charge to urge pro-life Americans to speak out against the recommendation, the mandate to force coverage and the lack of conscience protections of religious groups that don't want to be forced to purchase insurance coverage with those objectionable provisions to send comments to the Department of Health and Human Services.

Even though tens of thousands of pro-life Americans have done so, Jeanne Monahan of FRC says the Obama administration is not making those comments public, as promised. (LifeNews.com) Read more.

- Pray that these protests to the Obamacare bill be made public. There is no reason why those who disapprove of abortions should be paying for them. Over 12,000 protests have been made to the federal government by the FRC, not counting the Roman Catholic protests sent in, yet very few have been publicized, due to the loyalty of Mrs. Sebelius to the Obama administration. Ask the Lord to move on her spirit to reveal the truth. Keep pushing against nefarious and clandestine activities against this nation. The Lord surely hears our cries.

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

8. SEBELIUS ADMIN. DESTROYED RECORDS IN CASE AGAINST PLANNED PARENTHOOD

Another layer to the depth of the Sebelius abortion corruption has been revealed with today's AP report that Kansas health department (KDHE) in 2005 destroyed the state late-term abortion reports at the heart of the felony charges against Planned Parenthood. The pre-trial hearing for felony "false-writing" charges had been scheduled for Monday Oct. 24, Since the original reports have now been discovered as destroyed, the Johnson County District attorney's office had asked for a delay so they could engage other witnesses to verify the authenticity of copies of the state reports. The state reports are verifications that abortionists send to KDHE for statistical purposes, and are annually tabulated and published. Copies of those reports are required to be kept in the patient medical files. Of crucial importance is that these reports fail to provide valid medical reasons that banned post-viability abortions were performed. They are evidence of illegal abortion. (LifeNews.com) Read more.

- Here is another case of lying and destroying of records that reveals what the Obama administration is really interested in: the deception of American citizens! Pray that the charges of "false writing" in this trial will reveal the truth. Pray against any bribery offered and accepted by attorneys, judges, and all others associated with this felony. Ask the Lord to bring salvation to Mrs. Sebelius and repentance for being criminally involved in cases involving the Obama administration.

- "Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who delights greatly in His commandment." (Psalm 112:1)

9. SOCIAL SECURITY PAYMENTS WILL INCREASE BEGINNING IN 2012

After two years without an increase in benefits, 55 million Social Security recipients will finally get a raise next year.

Experts project the increase will be about 3.5 percent. The Social Security Administration is scheduled to make it official Wednesday when the government releases an inflation measure that determines the annual cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA.

Monthly Social Security payments average $1,082, or about $13,000 a year. A 3.5 percent increase would amount to an additional $38 a month, or about $455 a year. Some of the increase in January will be lost to higher Medicare premiums, which are deducted from Social Security payments. Medicare Part B premiums for 2012 are expected to be announced next week, and the trustees who oversee the program are projecting an increase.(AP) Read more.

-Lord Jesus, awaken the eyes of the mind and heart of seniors to perceive the deception behind this announcement. Yes, we are thankful for an increase for those who truly are needy but deception lurks behind this act. We stand in the gap before You that many will Not be deceived as this increase is gobbled up by a burdensome governmentally controlled medical agency heading for bankruptcy. Deliver us as a people from these deceptions. In the Name of Messiah Jesus, Amen and Amen!!

- "When wisdom enters your heart and knowledge is pleasant to your soul, discretion will preserve you; Understanding will keep you to deliver you from the way of evil, from the man who speaks perverse things." (Proverbs 2:10-12)

10. CAIR DEMANDS MILITARY CHANGE UNIFORMS

It starts in high school, then where. The Counsel on American Islamic Relations (CAIR) sent a letter last week to the superintendent of Williamson County Schools demanding a formal apology be issued to Miss Zawity and that she be allowed to participate in the Junior Reserve Officers Training Program (JROTC) program wearing her hijab. She was banned from the program because she demanded to be the only student in uniform wearing a hijab. For CAIR and the rest of the Muslim Brotherhood, this is not about the JROTC or Zawity. It is the first attempt to change the uniforms of the United States military to conform with sharia law. (Religious Freedom Coalition)

-In the strong name of Jesus, we come against the subtle attempt to bring the US military in compliance with Sharia law. We bind up this anti-Christ spirit of takeover that forces women to be second class citizens while at the same time denying basic rights to Christians in the countries they control. Lord, cause the school and the JROTC to stand strong against this pagan demand.

- "The Lord bringeth the counsel of the heathen to nought: he maketh the devices of the people of none effect." (Psalms 33:10)

11. FACTORS DECIDING CONTROL OF THE HOUSE IN 2012

Twenty-five: That's a magic number for Democrats as the 2012 elections creep closer. Twenty-five is the number of House seats Democrats need to secure to again rule the House.

That's a tall order. And there is a series of factors already in play which could help swing control of the House in 2013.

26 could be the new 25: The current breakdown is 242-192 in favor of Republicans. There's one vacancy: Former Rep. David Wu (D-OR) resigned earlier this year amid an ethical cloud. That's a district the parties will wrestle over in an upcoming special election. Republicans are optimistic that Wu's demise could present an opening in a place which Democrats have held for more than 30 years. . . So if Democrats lose this seat, the magic number escalates to 26.

The Giffords Factor: The future of the political career of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-AZ) remains unclear. The fact that Giffords rallied to unexpectedly return to Washington for a vote on the debt ceiling agreement in August only fueled speculation that she would run again. She continues to raise money. And there's even a chance that Giffords could run for the Senate seat that Senate Minority Whip Jon Kyl (R-AZ) is vacating in 2013. But until Giffords makes a decision, no one can truly handicap this race. If Giffords doesn't run, Republicans would apply a full-court press to capture her seat, as the Arizona Democrat wrested it from Republican control in 2006 when former Rep. Jim Kolbe (R-AZ) retired. (Fox News) Read more.

- Continue to pray without ceasing over every aspect of the election next year in both the legislative and executive branches of our government - Congress and the White House. Let freedom ring; let justice prevail!

- "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people." (Proverbs 14:34)

12. October 15, 2011: THE DAY OBAMA'S ARMY OCCUPIED THE FREE WORLD

Welcome to a hostile New World that arrived on society's doorstep with the dawning of this very day. Overnight the Army of Hussein Obama moved in to our cities to occupy some 82 countries, including Canada where it really all began.

The people milling about in public parks in cities now under Occupation look like harmless hippies, but they're conscripted soldiers for Obama, some on pay better than what is being paid to selfless soldiers of the real army risking life and limb for freedom in countries far from home.

It's a momentous but sad day for the up-to-now Free World of the West. History will record that while the populations of some 82 countries were going about their business trying to get through another day of a Global Recession, teetering on collapse, is precisely when Obama moved his army into their country.

We recognize real Armies by their Armed Forces uniforms. This is an Army that looks too hideous to be taken seriously, but it is all the same an army hiding behind the face of 'democracy' with false promises for Hope and Change to make life better for the masses.

Never forget that this is an Army more dangerous than any other. It is an army whose members are being paid to bring about Revolution. (Source: Judi McLeod, Canada Free Press) Read more.

- Oh Abba Father, the stench of such profound evil arising out of these protests is overwhelming. The twisted rhetoric of inverted envy, greed, covetousness, and sense of entitlement we know arises from the enemy of our souls! We take up the sword of Your Spirit, Word and Truth, and cut, slash and shatter all the lies being spewed forth. We plead the Blood of Jesus and for Your Mercy to flow over our lands, Lord! Show forth Your Light and allow Your Glory to shine into the darkness being spread worldwide by these actions. We bind and rebuke the strongholds and spirits driving these protests, in the Name of Jesus, and we ask for these captive souls to be set free to know You and to worship You in Spirit and in Truth. Amen and Amen.

- "To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of satan unto God; that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in Me." (Acts 26:18)

Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction: Timeline & Deadlines

The Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction was formed to study ways to cut the national debt in order to avoid going into default. Their plan must be presented to Congress by December 2, 2011.

In addition, Friday, October 14, was the deadline for House and Senate committees to submit recommendations to the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction.

November 23, 2011 is the deadline for the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction to vote on a plan with the goal (not a requirement) of $1.5 trillion in deficit reduction.

A complete list of the meeting dates for the Joint Committee is listed on our blog, or by going directly here.

Next Saturday: You're Invited!!

When Your Judgments Come Upon the Earth,
The People of the Earth Learn Righteousness

With Barry and Linda Battelstein
Chaim Ministries

1:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Church on the Rock
14310 Sullyfield Circle, Suite 350
Chantilly, VA 20151

Dear Friends,

You are cordially invited to attend an afternoon of fellowship with Barry and Linda Battelstein. Their message will be on understanding the times and seasons, and will be taught from Isaiah 29:6:

"With my soul I have desired You in the night, Yes, by my spirit within me I will seek You early; For when Your judgments are in the earth, The inhabitants of the world will learn righteousness."

Barry and Linda have been in ministry to the Word of God for both Israel and the church for over fifteen years. Barry was born and raised Jewish, and came to know Yeshua as His Messiah through a personal experience with Him in the late 1980ʼs. Barry married Linda shortly after.

After being called by the Lord in 1997 to "Go teach His people", The Lord sent them to Israel where they established Israeli citizenship. They lived there for eight years where Barry taught in different venues and wrote multiple books. Their calling has been to "open the eyes of the blind" and "turn the hearts of the people back to their God."

Barry and Linda have been back in the United States for a short season, and for the past three years have been teaching and "awakening" the church to its Jewish roots, as well as continuing to proclaim the prophetic Word of God as it relates to what is happening in Israel, America, and the other nations. Come and join us as we learn more from Barry and Linda Battelstein.

Date: Saturday, October 29

Time: 1:00 p.m.

Place: Church on the Rock
14310 Sullyfield Circle, Suite 350
Chantilly, VA 20151
Click here for directions:
http://ChurchontheRockchantilly.com

For questions please contact:
Info@thehouseofdavid.org

Hosted by Capitol Hill Prayer Partners and
House of David Ministries

NOW YOU CAN HELP US SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT THIS VERY SPECIAL MEETING!

You can now access a flyer, announcing this meeting, by going here.

Click on this link and you will find a one-page flyer that you can print out and share with other friends this week. God bless you all!

On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVIII, No. 32b

Focus on Legislation:

Introduction

In addition to the bills in Congress that are of major concern (cited in our Domestic Issues section), we also feature other bills of concern in this section.

As you will see below, these bills are generally separated into two groups: those we wish to support in prayer, and those we wish to see defeated.

Our plumbline is always the Word of God: those bills we wish to support in prayer are in alignment with the Word, and the will, of God; those bills to be defeated, are not.

Thank you for continuing to stand with us as we pray for the hearts of our leaders . . . that they might know the mind of Christ and pass legislation, accordingly. Amen!

Bills to Support in Prayer

Please lift up the members of Congress or the Senate who are sponsoring these bills, with the promise of Scripture, below.

"He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, Which yields its fruit in its season And its leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers." (Psalm 1:3)

1. H.Res.642 - Broadcaster Freedom Act of 2011

Purpose: To prevent the Federal Communications Commission from repromulgating the fairness doctrine.

H.R. 642 amends the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) from having the authority to require broadcasters to present opposing viewpoints on controversial issues of public importance, commonly referred to as the Fairness Doctrine. This bill is sponsored by Rep. Mike Pence (R-IN) and has 145 cosponsors.

To learn more about the Fairness Doctrine, go here.

2. H. Res. 253: Designating the First Week in May as "America's Spiritual Heritage Week"

This bill affirms the rich spiritual and religious history of our Nation's founding and subsequent history and expressing support for designation of the first week in May as "America's Spiritual Heritage Week" for the appreciation of and education on America's history of religious faith. H. Res. 253 is sponsored by Congressman Randy Forbes.

3. H.Res. 211: Recognizing the Importance of the Ten Commandments in our Founding Documents

This piece of legislation is aimed at recognizing the important influence the Ten Commandments had on our Founding Documents and Principles. Rep. Louis Gohmert (R-TX) is the sponsor of this bill. Read status here.

4. H.Res. 2023: Public Expression of Religion Act

If passed into law, this bill would limit the remedies available to parties that bring lawsuits against expressions of religion . . . The bill would modify the law so each side pays its own attorney fees, removing the monetary incentive that activist groups have in bringing these types of cases. The sponsor of this bill is Rep. Dan Burton (R-IN).

Read status here.

5. H.Res. 2070: The World War II Memorial Prayer Act of 2011

Please pray for World War II Memorial Prayer Act of 2011 which would require the Secretary of the Interior to place a plaque at the World War II Memorial or inscribe on the Memorial President Franklin D. Roosevelt's D-Day prayer, which has been entitled "Let Our Hearts Be Stout."

The sponsor of H.Res. 2070 is Rep. Bill Johnson (R-OH). Read more here.
[Source for all information above is the Congressional Prayer Caucus Foundation.]

Bills and Actions to Block in Prayer

"The voice of nobles was hushed, And their tongue stuck to the roof of their mouth." (Job 29:10)
Prayer Decrees:

1. Ask our Lord to forgive those who are sponsoring bills with wicked agendas, for they know not what they do.

"Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." (Luke 23:24)

[Please remember: we are commanded to forgive, whether we feel like it or not!]

2. Ask our Lord to impact the life of each member, bringing them to repentance unto salvation.
"(The Lord is) not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9)

3. When praying over each bill specifically, ask our Lord to intervene, bringing its progress to an end.

"This far you may come, but no farther, And here your proud waves must stop!" (Job 38:11)

4. Finish by praising Him that He is in control and that He is working out everything according to His plan.

"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)

OPPOSE S. 978: FEDERAL POLICING OF INTERNET COPYRIGHT ISSUES

-- Copyright policing is not the proper role of government.

New legislation, S. 978, to "amend the criminal penalty provision for criminal infringement of a copyright, and for other purposes," is causing quite a stir on the Internet. The measure would make online streaming of copyrighted content a felony, accompanied by some dramatic consequences - fines and jail time.

One of the biggest discussions about S. 978 is whether ordinary users of the Internet - not those who deliberately intend to profit from illegal copyright infringement or streaming - can be criminalized for embedding YouTube videos, unaware that those containing even background music are copyrighted. The authors of the bill say it's not their intent to put people in jail for continuing to use YouTube as it is used and viewed today - under "fair use" understanding - but it could be a consequence of the bill.

There are already copyright laws on the books. These laws do require that the copyright holders are responsible for bringing a civil suit against a suspected infringer, and for bearing the cost of the legal fees that could bring them a windfall of compensatory damages, if they win their case. But with S. 978, new tools would be handed over to the Department of Justice, FBI, Homeland Security, and other agencies, courtesy of taxpayer money, to provide the muscle, legwork, and enforcement necessary to secure and protect a small subset of copyrights.

Contact your Senators and Representatives immediately, and let them know copyright policing is not the proper role of government and that there are already existing legal tools that can be used for real copyright infringements.

Read status here.

In the Judiciary:

"They will sing before the LORD, for he comes, he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world in righteousness and the peoples in his truth." (Psalm 96:13)

1. Supreme Court declines to hear case challenging school day moment of silence

The Supreme Court has declined to hear a case challenging an Illinois statute that requires a moment of silence at the start of each school day. As such, the Seventh Circuit's ruling upholding the constitutionality of the statute will stand. The moment of silence had been challenged as a violation of the Establishment Clause. Read more.

2. Federal court hears challenge to public school prayer mural; judge exits courtroom to see the display

On Thursday, a federal district court heard arguments in a case regarding the constitutionality of a prayer mural that has hung in a Rhode Island public school for almost 50 years. The judge recessed the hearing to visit the school and view the banner for himself. The ACLU sued on behalf of an offended student, alleging that the display violates the Establishment Clause. The mural contains a prayer that students would develop in positive ways.

3. NINTH CIRCUIT REFUSES TO HEAR MT. SOLEDAD CASE

On Friday, the infamous 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco -- the nation's most leftist and ineffective appeals court -- continued its anti-Christian jihad as it refused to rehear the case of the Mount Soledad War Memorial Cross being removed by various liberal state and federal judges. This beautiful 29-foot cross sits on public land on a mountain overlooking the Pacific Ocean which has been seen by countless millions over the decades. It was dedicated in 1954 in honor of Korean War veterans.

Retired Air Force Colonel Bruce S. Baily, president of the Mount Soledad Memorial Association, was quoted in yesterday's "The Washington Times" as saying: "People want this veteran's memorial to remain as it is, from the thousands who visit it each month to honor our nation's veterans, to the 76% of San Diegans who voted to give it to the federal government as a national veterans' memorial."

Without any doubt, this recent abominable ruling of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals -- allowing removal of the Mount Soledad War Memorial Cross -- will be reversed by the United States Supreme Court at some point in time; hopefully sooner, rather than later. (Christian Coalition of America)

- Lord God, we ask You to wipe the history of this court clean and send angels to surround this area. Set up a protective guard that will prevent all evil from crossing the threshold. Call in men and women of sound morals and godly principles, who live with a holy reverence and fear of the Lord God in heaven so that this court will be totally transformed. We thank and praise Your Name, my God. We ask this in the mighty Name of Jesus Christ.

- "Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is." (I Corinthians 3:13)

4. DOMA Military Challenge Expected by November

Following the official repeal of the military's Don't Ask, Don't Tell (DADT) policy, the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) will face another frontal assault in federal court by the end of October.

The Servicemembers Legal Defense Network -- the same activist group that lobbied for the repeal of DADT -- said over the weekend that it will file a lawsuit before November on behalf of gay-, lesbian- and bisexual-identified service personnel in legal same-sex marriages who want spousal benefits for their partners. Though many people concerned about DOMA raised questions about this scenario before DADT was repealed, the U.S. Department of Defense never answered them.

The Obama administration announced in February it would no longer defend DOMA in ongoing or future court challenges. Meanwhile, a bill to officially repeal the law is scheduled for discussion in the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee in November.

If the timing seems propitious, says retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Bob Maginnis, it's only due to careful planning. Maginnis, who was on the Pentagon team in the1990s that preserved DADT, said gay activists have been aiming to take down marriage all along. "Let there be no doubt: Homosexual activists have taken captive one of the nation's most conservative institutions," he told Citizen, "and they intend to use it as a platform to further transform the nation's moral landscape." (CitizenLink)
- God, we ask that a line be drawn and this group of gay activists be held down and defeated by the mighty warring angels from heaven. Protect our sons and daughters in the military, my God. Almighty God, oppose all the evil spirits that are targeting our respected military and close the doors where they no longer have access but are commanded to be locked out by the blood of Jesus Christ and His mighty Name.

- "Do not fret because of evildoers or be envious of the wicked, for the evildoer has no future hope, and the lamp of the wicked will be snuffed out." (Proverbs 24:19,20)

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On Capitol Hill This Week: Vol. XVIII, No. 32c

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. PALESTINIANS TO PUSH FOR UN MEMBERSHIP NOVEMBER 11TH
2. CHIEF OF STAFF GANTZ TO SFC SHALIT: "YOU ARE A HERO"
3. DAY OF DECISION AND HEARTBREAK
4. MASHAAL TO PRISONERS: YOU WILL RETURN TO PALESTINE
5. ABBAS USES MORE FOREIGN AID TO PAY FREED TERRORISTS
6. OBAMA ANNOUNCES COMPLETE WITHDRAWAL OF U.S. FORCES FROM IRAQ BY END OF YEAR
7. LIBYA P.M. PLANS TO STEP DOWN IN WAKE OF GADHAFI'S DEATH
8. SAUDI ARABIA'S CROWN PRINCE HAS DIED
9. U.S. INTELLIGENCE ON ALERT: WATCHING CHINA
10. U.N. CONTROL OF INTERNET?
11. "OCCUPY WALL STREET" TO PUSH FOR GLOBAL TAX

1. PALESTINIANS TO PUSH FOR UN MEMBERSHIP NOVEMBER 11

Palestinian diplomats are trying to muster support for a U.N. Security Council vote in New York on Nov. 11 on their bid for membership in the global body, a senior Palestinian official said Thursday. U.N. diplomats said earlier this week that a Security Council committee considering the membership bid would deliver a report on that day, and that ambassadors would then decide on the next steps. Any member of the Security Council can request a vote on the Palestinian request, but a resolution recommending membership requires a minimum of nine "yes" votes and no veto by one of the council's five permanent members _ Britain, China, France, Russia and the U.S. Washington, Israel's closest ally, has already pledged to use its veto if Palestinian membership gets the support of nine or more council members.

Once the 15-member Security Council recommends a country's membership its application must be approved by a two-thirds vote in the 193-member General Assembly.

Elections to replace five nonpermanent members of the Security Council on Friday [a normal rotation cycle] could create a grouping even less likely to approve the Palestinians' bid, if it rolls over into the new year. Winners will take their posts Jan. 1. Strong Palestinian backers Brazil and Lebanon, along with Nigeria and Gabon, will be leaving the council at the same time. Guatemala, running unopposed for the lone Latin America seat, has never recognized a Palestinian state. Neither has Slovenia, one of three candidates for the East European seat being vacated by Bosnia. The rest of the candidates have all recognized a Palestinian state: Togo, Mauritania, Morocco, Azerbaijan, Hungary, Pakistan and Kyrgystan

"The addition of Guatemala and the subtraction of Brazil would make it a bit more difficult" to get statehood approved, if the vote is held over, said Warren Hoge, senior adviser for external relations at the International Peace Institute, a New York think tank. (Times Online) Read more.

- Father in heaven, this bid for Palestinian membership in the United Nations reeks of Islam's war-like attitude to gain more control over the nations. And by the power of God vested in us we decree that the spiritual stronghold of Islam is destroyed by the Word of God, including all the hoards of evil spirits that empower this wicked system God, we decree total failure to the evil spiritual powers that would seek to deceive through lies and false agreements. May they all be defeated, disarmed, disqualified, made useless and unnecessary, and totally pushed out by the blood of Jesus Christ. Hold back the vote until next year, that one cannot agree with the other and cast down every lie and deception so that no nation will vote for Palestinian membership to the U.N. In the mighty Name of Jesus we pray.

- "Shall the throne of iniquity have fellowship with you, which frames mischief by a law? They gather themselves together against the soul of the righteous and condemn the innocent blood. But the Lord is our defense; and our God is the rock of our refuge." (Psalm 94:19-22)

2. CHIEF OF STAFF GANTZ TO SFC SHALIT: YOU ARE A HERO

IDF [Israel Defense Force] Spokesperson, Brigadier General Yoav (Poly) Mordechai on Tuesday afternoon [October 18] provided an update on the condition of SFC Gilad Shalit. Brig. Gen. Mordechai said that SFC Shalit had already undergone initial physical and psychological tests before being flown to Tel Nof.

"The flight was exciting for him and after we landed, Gilad Shalit saluted the prime minister, chief of the general staff and the defense minister," Brig. Gen. Mordechai said. "The chief of staff [Lieutenant General Benny Gantz] told Gilad Shalit that he is a hero and brave and that he is proud of him."

A minute later, SFC Shalit was reunited with his family. Later, accompanied by his family, SFC Shalit began further medical checks. "We understand that for large periods of time, he was exposed to media, including radio," Brig. Gen. Mordechai said of Shalit's time in captivity.

Brig. Gen. Mordechai repeated his request that the privacy of SFC Shalit and his family be respected. "The IDF is proud of Gilad's steadfastness and determination over the years," Brig. Gen. Mordechai said. "We will continue to support him and give him strength." (By The Israel Defense Force, October 18, 2011)

- Praise God for hearing all the prayers raised up to heaven on Gilad Shalit's behalf for over five years! Praise Him for Gilad's good condition. Pray that his adjustment to life back in Israel, mentally and emotionally, will be easy.

- "Return to your rest, O my soul, for the LORD has dealt bountifully with you. For You have delivered my soul from death, my eyes from tears, and my feet from falling. I will walk before the LORD in the land of the living." (Psalm 116:7-9) [From: Bridges for Peace]

3. DAY OF DECISION AND HEARTBREAK

Monday [October 17] was one of the hardest days for the judges at Israel's Supreme Court of Justice when the representatives of families of terror victims petitioned the High Court to overturn the government decision to release 1,027 Palestinian terrorists in exchange for captured IDF [Israel Defense Force] soldier Gilad Shalit.

Supreme Court President Dorit Beinisch left the court in no doubt as to the gravity of the decision of the three-person bench. "The moral and legal difficulty is laid out before us; we are sitting among our own people. There is no need to explain the painful history and the very difficult dilemmas we face."

Gilad Shalit's father, Noam Shalit, said, "We sympathize with the pain of the families of the terror victims, but ask that the court not make any change, however small, to the deal made by the government," Schalit's parents, Noam and Aviva told the court. (Excerpts of an article by Isranet, October 17, 2011)

- Pray that the families of those who have lost loved ones because of terror attacks will be comforted. In the end, it is God who brings justice to all things. Pray that these families rest in the assurance that their heart cries are heard in heaven.

- "Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for Him; do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; do not fret - it only causes harm. For evildoers shall be cut off; but those who wait on the LORD, they shall inherit the earth." (Ps. 37:7-9) [From: Bridges for Peace]

4. MASHAAL TO PRISONERS: YOU WILL RETURN TO PALESTINE

As hundreds of thousands gathered Tuesday [October 18] in Gaza and the West Bank city of Ramallah to celebrate the homecoming of Palestinian prisoners, Hamas Politburo Chief Khaled Mashaal praised his group's "accomplishment" in keeping Gilad Shalit's whereabouts a secret for the past five years.

At the Cairo airport's reception hall, Mashaal addressed the Palestinian inmates exiled to Egypt, telling them that "hiding Shalit for the past five years in Gaza is a huge accomplishment." He rejected any Israeli claims that Hamas retreated and became more flexible with its demands. Mashaal said that it was Netanyahu's government which finally compromised.

He added that the swap should be considered a national achievement for all of the Palestinian factions; saying that "the Palestinian security minds beat the Israeli security minds, which are supported by advanced technology."

Earlier Tuesday, Gaza City's residents celebrated the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, set free as part of the Shalit prisoner exchange. Over 250,000 Palestinians gathered in the city's main square, where a formal reception was being held in the honor of the 296 prisoners who were allowed to return to the Strip. (Excerpts of an article by Elior Levy, Ynetnews, October 18, 2011)

- Pray that God will help Israel, both naturally and supernaturally, to keep track of these prisoners and thwart all their plans to reenter Israel and create more terror for this nation.

- "I have pursued my enemies and overtaken them; neither did I turn back again till they were destroyed. I have wounded them, so that they could not rise; they have fallen under my feet. For You have armed me with strength for the battle; You have subdued under me those who rose up against me." (Psalm 18:37-39)

5.ABBAS USES MORE FOREIGN AID TO PAY FREED TERRORISTS

Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas has bested Hamas' generosity and is honoring freed terrorists with a $5,000 grant, partially funded by the United States and the European Union. Meanwhile, Hamas urges more kidnappings.

A PA law states that salaries "will be implemented... on the basis of available sources of funding," reported the Arab daily Al-Hayat Al-Jadida last April. Abbas warned earlier this month that Washington's decision to suspend financial aid to the PA damages the "peace process." Palestinian Media Watch (PMW) noted at the time that "it is the contributions by the United States and other foreign donors to the PA general budget that facilitates the payment of monthly salaries to the terrorist prisoners."

Abbas has frequently stated that the PA cannot pay monthly salaries without foreign aid. The grants to terrorists also contradict Abbas' commitments not to encourage terror.

Meanwhile, Hamas continues to urge more kidnappings of Israeli soldiers as bargaining chips to force the freeing of approximately 5,000 Arab security prisoners and terrorists still in Israeli prisons.

- Father, it grieves us to learn that our taxpayer money is going to fund the terrorists that are bent on killing Israeli citizens. Forgive us, Lord, and please show our leaders Your wisdom in foreign relations. May we always be a blessing to Israel, and never a curse. Amen.

- "There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the LORD. " (Proverbs 21:30)

6. OBAMA ANNOUNCES COMPLETE WITHDRAWAL OF U.S. FORCES FROM IRAQ BY END OF YEAR

Obama announced Friday that all U.S. forces will be withdrawn from Iraq by the end of 2011, saying the troops "will definitely be home for the holidays."

The announcement, in the White House briefing room, came after the president completed a secure video conference with Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki. The discussion apparently finalized negotiations that have dragged on for months over what, if any, military presence the U.S. would maintain in Iraq beyond a Dec. 31 withdrawal deadline set in 2008. The president said the two are now in "full agreement" over how to move forward, and that no U.S. troops will remain.

Capitol Hill sources indicated Friday that, while the troops will come home, the standard presence of Marines will be kept to guard the U.S. Embassy there.

- Pray for the safety of all of these troops who will be in the process of this rapid drawdown. May each one be honored for the service he or she has rendered during their time in Iraq.

- "For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways." (Psalm 91:11)

7. LIBYA PRIME MINISTER PLANS TO STEP DOWN IN WAKE OF GADHAFI'S DEATH

Libyan Prime Minister Mahmoud Jibril said he expected to step down on Saturday, a move he had planned to make once his government took full control of the country. Ousted dictator Muammar Gadhafi was killed on Thursday when government forces overran his last stronghold Sirte. The government was expected to formally declare the country "liberated" on Sunday.

Obama congratulated Libya on their declaration of liberation. "After four decades of brutal dictatorship and eight months of deadly conflict, the Libyan people can now celebrate their freedom and the beginning of a new era of promise," Obama said in a statement. "We look forward to working with the NTC and an empowered transitional government as they prepare for the country's first free and fair elections," Obama said.

Meanwhile, days after the killing of Muammar al - Qaddafi, the leader of Libya's transitional government, Mustafa Abdul-Jalil, says Sharia law will be the 'basic source' of legislation and will replace all laws that contradict the teachings of Islam. Abdul-Jalil set out a vision for the post-Qaddafi future with an Islamist tint, saying that Islamic Sharia law would be the "basic source" of legislation in the country and that existing laws that contradict the teachings of the cult of Islam would be nullified. (Fox News) Read more.

- Offer prayer in the wake of the revolution that has come to the nation of Libya. Pray that the current peace in the streets will remain, and pray for unusual wisdom for its new leaders as they seek to establish a new form of govenment for their people. If, as stated above, Sharia law will be the basic source of legislation in Libya, cry out for these precious people, that they might instead find Christ as their Savior and Lord, and establish their nation upon the teachings of the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Amen.

- "Can a land be born in a day?" (Isaiah 66:8)

8. SAUDI ARABIA'S CROWN PRINCE HAS DIED

The heir to the Saudi throne, Crown Prince Sultan bin Abdel Aziz Al Saud, died abroad Saturday after an illness, state TV said. The death of the 85-year-old prince opens questions about the succession in the critical, oil-rich U.S. ally. Sultan . . was the kingdom's deputy prime minister and the minister of defense and aviation. The most likely candidate to replace Sultan as Abdullah's successor is Prince Nayef, the powerful interior minister in charge of internal security forces. After Sultan fell ill, the king gave Nayef -- also his half-brother -- an implicit nod in 2009 by naming him second deputy prime minister, traditionally the post of the second in line to the throne.

Saudi Arabia has been ruled since 1953 by the sons of its founder, King Abdul-Aziz, who had over 40 sons by multiple wives.

Sultan was the kingdom's defense minister in 1990 when U.S. forces deployed in Saudi Arabia to defend it against Iraqi forces that had overrun Kuwait. His son, Prince Khaled, served as the top Arab commander in operation Desert Storm, in which U.S., Saudi and other Arab forces drove the Iraqis out of Kuwait. Sultan is survived by 32 children from multiple wives. They include Bandar, the former ambassador to the United States who now heads the National Security Council, and Khaled, Sultan's assistant in the Defense Ministry. (Fox News) Read more.

- Pray for the people of Saudi Arabia, that they might be visited by the Holy One of Israel, our Messiah, and come to know His peace, and His ways. Pray.

- "The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned." (Isaiah 9:2)

9. U.S. INTELLIGENCE ON ALERT: WATCHING CHINA

The Washington Times is reporting that US intelligence agencies are on alert for unexpected Chinese military activities this weekend. Citing China's use of military tests to send political signals, the report comes as a US official is visiting Beijing and in the wake of the US-Taiwan arms deal.

While there is no hint about the possible nature of such activities, they could be timed to coincide with the visit of White House National Security Adviser Thomas Donilon to Beijing. According to the Washington Times, they could be part of the Chinese response to the US$5.8 billion arms package for Taiwan that was announced by the US last month.

The Washington Times said that the administration of US President Barack Obama was "braced for a tough Chinese reaction." "The US intelligence community so far is unable to assess authoritatively just what China will do," it said. According to the newspaper, the US military is "ready for any provocation."

A US Navy carrier strike group led by the USS George Washington is on patrol near the South China Sea and the assault ship USS Essex, with Marines on board, is in the Philippines Sea. (Taipei Times)

- Pray over all of our intelligence services as they look east, as well as west. The specialists at NSA, FBI, CIA, NCIS, and all other agencies cannot be found sleeping when times are this tense. Pray that any movements made by mainland China are interpreted correctly, and that our responses will be those of wisdom. Pray!

- "Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity." (Proverbs 21:23)

10. U.N. CONTROL OF INTERNET?

The commander of the U.S. Cyber Command said Thursday that he does not favor giving the United Nations the power to regulate the Internet. Some regulations are needed to protect critical networks that control electrical power, banking, transportation and other key elements of society, Army Gen. Keith Alexander, who is also director of the National Security Agency, said after a speech to a security conference.

Last month, Russia, China, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan submitted a resolution to the U.N. General Assembly calling for giving individual states the right to control the Internet. The resolution, submitted Sept. 14, calls for "an international code of conduct for information security." It requests "international deliberations within the United Nations framework on such an international code, with the aim of achieving the earliest possible consensus on international norms and rules guiding the behavior of states in the information space." But asked whether the U.N. should have a regulation role, Gen. Alexander said: "No. I'm not for regulating, per se. I'm concerned about it, and this is a tough question. I would say, generally speaking, I'm not into that portion of regulating as you would espouse."

Gen. Alexander said that, rather than seeking U.N. regulation, individual countries "first need to step up and say, 'Look, how do we do this without regulating it?' "I do think that there may be some things for critical infrastructure and government networks that we're going to have to direct out to the government," Gen. Alexander said. "These are things that you must do to secure your networks for government survivability." Additionally, security cooperation between nations can be improved, he said. (Washington Times) Read more.

- We agree with the general's assessment. Pray that no controls are placed over the internet at either the national or the global level.

- [Regarding any discussion of controlling the net] "'This far you may come and no farther; here is where your proud waves halt'" (Job 38:10)

11. VATICAN CALLS FOR "CENTRAL WORLD BANK" TO BE SET UP

The Vatican called on Monday for the establishment of a "global public authority" and a "central world bank" to rule over financial institutions that have become outdated and often ineffective in dealing fairly with crises.

A major document from the Vatican's Justice and Peace department should be music to the ears of the "Occupy Wall Street" demonstrators and similar movements around the world who have protested against the economic downturn. The 18-page document, "Towards Reforming the International Financial and Monetary Systems in the Context of a Global Public Authority," was at times very specific, calling, for example, for taxation measures on financial transactions.

"The economic and financial crisis which the world is going through calls everyone, individuals and peoples, to examine in depth the principles and the cultural and moral values at the basis of social coexistence," it said. It condemned what it called "the idolatry of the market" as well as a "neo-liberal thinking" that it said looked exclusively at technical solutions to economic problems. "In fact, the crisis has revealed behaviors like selfishness, collective greed and hoarding of goods on a great scale," it said, adding that world economics needed an "ethic of solidarity" among rich and poor nations.

"If no solutions are found to the various forms of injustice, the negative effects that will follow on the social, political and economic level will be destined to create a climate of growing hostility and even violence, and ultimately undermine the very foundations of democratic institutions, even the ones considered most solid," it said. (CNBC) Read more.

- Father, You alone know what time it is on the Prophetic Clock. We take authority in the Name of Jesus over this proposal and bind it to Your time, Your perfect will. We ask that if this proposal is not part of your prophetic realm, then destroy it and remove it from consideration. We loose Your Holy Spirit across the nations to protect Your people, and ask in humility for Your Mercy and forgiveness for our sins.

- " . . . Go now, Daniel, for what I have said is kept secret until the time of the end. Many will be purified, cleansed, and refined by these trials. But the wicked will continue in their wickedness, and none of them will understand. Only those who are wise will know what it means." [Daniel 12:9-10 New Living Testament]

MASSIVE EARTHQUAKE STRIKES TURKEY:

TURKISH RESCUERS RUSH TO FIND SURVIVORS AFTER MASSIVE QUAKE

Cries of panic and horror filled the air as a 7.2-magnitude earthquake struck eastern Turkey, killing at least 138 people as buildings pancaked and crumpled into rubble. The death toll was expecte to rise as rescuers sifted through the rubble and reached outlying villages. Tens of thousands fled into the streets running, screaming or trying to reach relatives on cell phones as apartment and office buildings cracked or collapsed. As the full extent of the damage became clear, survivors dug in with shovels or even their bare hands, desperately trying to rescue the trapped and the injured. Update: At this time, there are 217 confirmed dead and 1090 people injured. (Fox News)

Prayers offered by ASLAN ministry in Istanbul:

Let our cries reach heaven as we ask God for mercy on Turkey. The hearts of the whole nation are shaken. Let us grieve with those who have lost everything.

Right now, we ask you to plead with God for mercy on the nation of Turkey. After we had an earthquake of this magnitude in 1999, thousands of Turks called into our Alo Dua Prayer Hotlines requesting prayer. Please join us . . .

- Pray for the government's rescue efforts, for more rescue vehicles and paramedics, doctors to get to Van quickly.

- Pray for the weather, meteorologists are predicting snow.

- Pray for those still trapped in the rubble, that they may be found quickly.

- Pray for the families of those who are missing. In their despair, may they turn to Jesus.
- This province is one of Turkey's poorest. People have lost everything.

- Pray for us, our ASLAN team - to know how to minister and reach out effectively during this crisis time of Turkey's shaking.

Ian and Mary Jane Heringa
ASLAN International
www.aslaninternational.org

This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .

HOLY (Kadosh)

For this is what the high and lofty One says- he who lives forever, whose name is holy: "I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite." (Isaiah 57:15)

Holy is Your Name; Holiness befits You. Thank You that it is not on my merit that I can approach You, but it is because of the shed Blood of Yeshua, Jesus, that I can approach Your throne of grace, and have the privilege to call You Holy -- Kadosh.

"All the earth bows down to you; they sing praise to you, they sing praise to your name." (Psalm 66:4)

(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)