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On Capitol Hill This Week - Volume XIX, Number 3a
January 30 - February 3, 2012
INTERNATIONAL ISSUES
"The righteous shall inherit the land, And dwell in it forever." (Psalm 37:29)
On Capitol Hill This Week, Vol. XIX, No. 3a-1
1. WILL ISRAEL ATTACK IRAN?
2. NETANYAHU: ISRAEL WILL NOT GIVE U.S. WARNING
3. SAUDI AIR FORCE TO OUTNUMBER ISRAEL'S U.S. JET FLEET
4. ISRAELI OFFICIAL: "OBAMA PRESIDENCY HAS HARMED ISRAEL"
5. SURVEY: RECORD NUMBER OF ISRAELI JEWS BELIEVE IN GOD
6. ARAB MK OFFERS HIGHEST PRAISE FOR TERRORIST ''MARTYRS''
7. ELECTION FOR LIKUD CHAIRMAN - THIS TUESDAY - JANUARY 31
8. NEW PRESIDENT OF EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT SUPPORTS THE JEWISH PEOPLE
1. WILL ISRAEL ATTACK IRAN?
The Sunday New York Times magazine published a must-read story by Israeli journalist Ronen Bergman. It is headlined, "Will Israel Attack Iran?" Excerpts from the first page:
* As the Sabbath evening approached on Jan. 13, Ehud Barak paced the wide living-room floor of his home . . . . He now faces, along with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and 12 other members of Israel's inner security cabinet, the most important decision of his life - whether to launch a pre-emptive attack against Iran. We met in the late afternoon, and our conversation - the first of several over the next week - lasted for two and a half hours, long past nightfall. 'This is not about some abstract concept,' Barak said as he gazed out at the lights of Tel Aviv, 'but a genuine concern. The Iranians are, after all, a nation whose leaders have set themselves a strategic goal of wiping Israel off the map.' . .
Netanyahu and Barak have both repeatedly stressed that a decision has not yet been made and that a deadline for making one has not been set. As we spoke, however, Barak laid out three categories of questions, which he characterized as 'Israel's ability to act,' 'international legitimacy' and 'necessity,' all of which require affirmative responses before a decision is made to attack:
1.) Does Israel have the ability to cause severe damage to Iran's nuclear sites and bring about a major delay in the Iranian nuclear project? And can the military and the Israeli people withstand the inevitable counterattack?
2.) Does Israel have overt or tacit support, particularly from America, for carrying out an attack?
3.) Have all other possibilities for the containment of Iran's nuclear threat been exhausted, bringing Israel to the point of last resort? If so, is this the last opportunity for an attack?
For the first time since the Iranian nuclear threat emerged in the mid-1990s, at least some of Israel's most powerful leaders believe that the response to all of these questions is yes.
(New York Times) Read more. [Reported by by Joel C. Rosenberg]
- Offer praise to the Lord that, if Israel is forced to attack Iran in order to protect its own citizens, the Lord God Jehovah will be fighting with them. Continue in prayer on behalf of P.M. Benjamin Netanyahu and all other Israeli officials, that they be guided only by the Spirit of the LORD and not by the arm of the flesh in this critical, decision-making process. Pray!
- "I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you." (Psalm 32:8)
2. NETANYAHU: ISRAEL WILL NOT GIVE U.S. WARNING BEFORE STRIKE ON IRAN
Last week, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Ehud Barak told US Chief of Staff General Martin Dempsey that Israel would not give the US more than 12 hours notice before launching a strike against Iran.
Dempsey visited Israel last week on his first official trip to the country and met with Barak and IDF Chief of Staff Benny Gantz as well as the Prime Minister and President Shimon Peres. During the visit, Dempsey and IDF Chiefs discussed a planned joint military exercise that would test missile defense that was recently postponed as well as Israel's intentions towards Iran. Dempsey said the postponement, which upset Israeli officials, was to ensure "a better outcome".
During the meetings, Netanyahu and Barak told Dempsey that Israel would not coordinate with the US regarding a strike on Iran's nuclear facilities and would not give advance warning, especially in the wake of US President Barack Obama's insistence that he would prevent such as a strike from occurring. The reasons for a lack of coordination are unknown but speculation is that Netanyahu does not trust Obama to back Israel in a confrontation with Iran. . . (World of Judaica) Read more.
Note: this article was also posted on Friday's Daily Brief. Due to its critical report, we ask continued prayer over this issue. Thank you.
- Oh Lord, we know this rising nuclear threat to so many nations needs to be responded to in a way that halts it. We fall before Your throne and ask that this be handled in Your way and in Your time. Be with Israel and her leaders, letting them know how and when to do what You would have done. Lord, have mercy on us as a nation for this betrayal of Your chosen people. Amen and Amen!
- "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. Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people He has chosen as His own inheritance." (Psalm 33:8-12)
3. SAUDI AIR FORCE TO OUTNUMBER ISRAEL'S ADVANCED U.S. JET FLEET
With its latest acquisitions from Washington and Europe, the Saudi Air Force will have more fighter-bombers of more advanced models that the Israeli Air Force. Deep concern over this was recently relayed by Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Ehud Barak to President Barack Obama, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Defense Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta. IsraelI leaders reminded the Obama administration of its standing pledge to maintain Israel's qualitative military edge in the region. The aircraft supplied to the Saudis will place that edge in doubt.
For now, Israel has brought its concerns to the notice of the Obama administration without making specific requests to hold up delivery. Israel is conscious that the Gulf region is on tenterhooks over its security and the Saudis are deep in military preparations to beat back potentially aggressive Iranian moves in the wake of the oil embargo approved by the US and the European Union against Tehran's nuclear program. Jerusalem also takes into consideration the importance to the flagging American economy of the huge warplane transaction with the Saudis which will support 50,000 jobs in the US air industry and 600 American contractors of aircraft parts.
But none of these considerations allays the deep anxiety prevailing in the top echelons of Israel's high military and air command over the radical upgrade awarded Saudi air power providing it with the capacity to outclass and outgun Israel. (DEBKAfile)
- Oh Abba Father, we fall before You and beg for strength and assurance for Your land Israel and its people! We seek mercy for the evilness of these actions by our national leaders. Lord, may Israel and her people hear within their hearts the story of Gideon, where You are their Lord, their Protector and Defender! May Israeli leaders rise up from being downhearted and fearful, and know how fully You are the Source of their Salvation and in this with them! Amen and Amen.
- "When I blow the trumpet, I and all who are with me, then you also blow the trumpets on every side of the whole camp, and say 'the sword of the Lord and of Gideon'. So Gideon and the hundred men who were with him came to the outpost of the camp at the beginning of the middle watch, just as they had posted the watch; and the blew the trumpets and broke the pitchers that were in their hands. When the three hundred blew the trumpets, the Lord set every man's sword against his companion throughout the whole camp; and the army fled to Beth Accacia." (Judges 7:18-19, 22)
4. "OBAMA PRESIDENCY HAS HARMED ISRAEL," SAYS ISRAELI OFFICIAL
Former Israeli Ambassador to the UN Dan Gillerman firmly stated last week that Barack Obama's time in the White House has caused great harm to Israel. At a time when libelous accusations and efforts to delegitimize Israel are peaking, Obama's "weakness" has meant that "Israel has to keep apologizing for itself all the time," Gillerman said during a panel discussion at the annual Women's International Zionist Organization (WIZO) conference in Tel Aviv. "We shouldn't have to be on the defensive," Gillerman added.
Gillerman went on to note that the ongoing turmoil and regime changes in the Middle East were all the more reason to replace Obama with a stronger president in the upcoming US presidential election. Israeli officials have been critical of Obama's response and approach to the takeover by forces such as the Muslim Brotherhood, which they have labeled as everything from lackadaisical to appeasing.
Obama has been far more unpopular with average Israelis than any US president before him. Most Israelis believe Obama wants them to take unreasonable risks for peace with the Palestinians, and that in the event of a major attack on Israel, Obama would abandon the US commitment to defend the Jewish state. (Israel Today Magazine) Read more.
- Oh Heavenly Father, strengthen Your chosen people and strip the veils off of their eyes so that they fully see and hear how You alone are their Light, Salvation, Redeemer and Defender! You are the source of their strength and will not forsake them. We give You our praise and worship for this, Amen and Amen.
- "Depart from me, all you workers of iniquity, for the Lord has heard the voice of my weeping. The Lord has heard my supplication; the Lord will receive my prayer. Let all my enemies be ashamed and greatly troubled. Let them turn back and be ashamed suddenly." (Psalm 6:8-10)
5. SURVEY: RECORD NUMBER OF ISRAELI JEWS BELIEVE IN GOD
Fully 80% of Israeli Jews believe that God exists - the highest figure found by the Guttman-Avi Chai survey since this review of Israeli-Jewish beliefs began two decades ago. The study also found that 70% of respondents believe the Jews are the Chosen People, 65% believe the Torah and mitzvot (religious commandments) are God-given, and 56% believe in life after death. But that doesn't mean Jews in general are becoming more religious, at least not in an Orthodox Jewish way. Only 37% of Israeli Jews had a problem with fellow Jews not following the biblical commandments, and nearly 70% said they want more entertainment venues to be open on the Shabbat. The numbers, however, coincide with other recent findings that Israelis are increasingly hungry for a deeper spiritual life. (Ha'aretz/Israel Today)
- We rejoice at this good report!
- "May your unfailing love come to me, O Lord, your salvation according to your promise." (Ps 119: 41)
6. ARAB MEMBER OF KNESSET OFFERS HIGHEST PRAISE FOR TERRORIST ''MARTYRS''
In remarks at PA event honoring Palestinian martyrs, MK describes martyrs as "symbols of the homeland." A video purportedly shot at a Palestinian Authority event honoring Palestinian martyrs last week shows MK Ahmed Tibi (UAL-Ta'al) saying that "there is no greater source of praise" than martyrdom.
While the word martyr in Arabic means to die in the name of God, in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict it has come to be associated with suicide bombers and terrorists who are killed while attacking Israel. In the video released by the Palestinian Media Watch NGO Wednesday, Tibi says that "in the history of nations and their conflicts, the martyr is the ultimate source of pride." The martyr, he added, is "the symbol of the homeland."
Following the publication of Tibi's remarks in the Israeli media, MK Michael Ben-Ari (National Union) wrote a letter to Attorney-General Yehuda Weinstein, asking him to put the UAL-Ta'al MK on trial. "Your office has not hesitated to prosecute right-wing activists for less severe speeches," Ben-Ari said. "The time has come to stop Tibi's party." (Jerusalem Post) Read more.
- While Israel remains the only nation in the Middle East that is a true partner in democracy, defending the right to freedom of speech, there is a limit to this freedom -- for the good of society. Pray that MK Ben-Ari's appeal to the Attorney General is met with favor, and that the Israelis will begin to draw a line in the sand, forbidding hate-filled words from being accepted or uttered in the public square. Pray!
- "Woe to those who call good evil, and evil, good." (Isaiah 5:20)
7. ELECTION FOR LIKUD CHAIRMAN - THIS TUESDAY - JANUARY 31
Feiglin vs. Netanyahu Over Likud Elections
[Editorial comment: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is a member of the Likud Party in the Knesset, of which he now serves as Chairman. Elections for a new chairman are currently scheduled to take place this week on Tuesday, Jan. 31st. Thank you for holding this special election in prayer.]
Opposition to Netanyahu's apparent yielding to American pressure is seething within the Likud. Moshe Feiglin, leader of the party's Manhigut Yehudit (Jewish Leadership) faction, warns that Netanyahu is following the path of former Prime Minister and Likud leader Ariel Sharon in preparing to give up large parts of the Land of Israel. The issue at present is when to hold party elections. Feiglin and Manhigut Yehudit say that if elections are delayed, it could cost Israel its united capital. "Don't pay attention to Netanyahu's declarations," Feiglin wrote in a letter to Likud members on Tuesday, "but rather to his actions. Construction in eastern Jerusalem is already completely frozen. The process we are going through is exactly what led up to the Disengagement from Gush Katif, which nearly killed the Likud." (Israelnationalnews.com) Read more.
- We need to pray that the Lord will direct this election and release the Spirit of Wisdom and Truth over it. We must pray against bitter division coming into the Likud party, which could hand the general election over to the Left. We need to pray that P.M. Netanyahu will see the strong support for Feiglin's priorities in the election, as the call of the people to stay right of center. When he faces off with the Quartet or with Obama, the UN or whomever, Netanyahu will be able to justifiably say, this is the way I must lead, because I am a servant of the people. The people have spoken that they want changes to the right, as well as a strong security and post-1967 borders for Israel. Netanyahu must use Feiglin's popularity in the party as support for governing more from the right. Pray that this election doesn't get ugly and attacking, but that the shalom of the Lord will prevail. (Prayers submitted by Kathleen Mitchell)
- "To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding; To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity; To give subtilty to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion. A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels: To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings." (Proverbs 1:2-6)
8. NEW PRESIDENT OF EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT SUPPORTS THE JEWISH PEOPLE
"First responsibility is to defend the Jewish people."
Brussels, January 27th, 2012 - A full week of meetings commemorating the Wannsee Conference in Berlin and the victims of the Holocaust came to a climax in Brussels on Tuesday night, when the newly-elected President of the European Parliament, Martin Schulz, gave an official speech. In his speech, one of the first as a newly-elected president, he stated that "his first obligation as President of the European Parliament is to defend the Jewish people and the State of Israel." The statement came in his opening address at the 8th Annual Holocaust Remembrance Day in the European Parliament, co-organized by the European Coalition for Israel.
The new president spoke from personal experience when he said that "Germans born after the war are not guilty of what happened 70 years ago, but nevertheless responsible for remembering and passing on the remembrance to the next generation". In a private interview with ECI on Tuesday night he explained that "anti-Semitism is still very much an issue that needs to be monitored in Europe". Earlier in the week he had taken measures to ban Holocaust denial in the European Parliament, a decision that was criticised by some, but applauded by others. (European Coalition for Israel) Read more.
- PRAISE THE LORD! And regarding the Holocaust: When we say NEVER AGAIN, we mean NEVER AGAIN. Amen.
- "Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord." (Acts 3:19)
9. PHOTOS OF GAZA: THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE
We recently came across a set of 20 photos of Gaza that may surprise you . . . Instead of a suffering, underprivileged town, Gaza City is a prosperous, modern gem! You can access these photos by going here, or by visiting our blog.. Amen.
On Capitol Hill This Week, Vol. XIX, No. 3a-2
MORE INTERNATIONAL NEWS
1. U.S. BOMBS CAN'T DESTROY BURIED NUKE PLANTS
2. OBAMA, NETANYAHU APPLAUD NEW EU SANCTIONS ON IRAN
3. IRANIAN LAWMAKERS TO TAKE UP BILL BANNING OIL SALES TO EUROPE
4. INDIA TO PAY GOLD INSTEAD OF DOLLARS FOR IRANIAN OIL
5. CALL FOR EU TO CONTROL GREEK BUDGET
6. ASSAD'S TROOPS CARRY OUT ANOTHER MASSACRE IN SYRIA
7. RUSSIA EMERGES AS SYRIA'S MOST VALUABLE ALLY
8. IRANIAN PASTOR AGAIN THREATENED WITH DEATH; REFUSES TO RECANT HIS FAITH
1. U.S. BOMBS CAN'T DESTROY BURIED NUKE PLANTS
Even the heaviest US bombs are not powerful enough to destroy some of Iran's more fortified nuclear facilities, the Wall Street Journal quoted US officials as saying Friday. The Pentagon is taking steps to improve its "bunker-busting" capabilities, they added. The US's 30,000-pound (13,600 kilo) "Mass Ordnance Penetrator" (MOP) was specifically designed to be able to take out Iranian and North Korean nuclear facilities. (Jerusalem Post) Read more.http://www.jpost.com/IranianThreat/News/Article.aspx?id=255468
US building 'mothership' for launching Navy Seal raids
Documents released by the Pentagon show that the military is urgently refitting the USS Ponce, a 1960s transport ship, so that it can accommodate the speed boats and Blackhawk helicopters favoured by America's special forces. The vessel had been scheduled for decommissioning but was given a new lease of life after requests from US Central Command, which has responsibility for American troops in the region, for a floating base that could remain anchored in one spot for weeks at a time. (Telegraph UK) Read more. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/piracy/9046085/US-building-mothership-for-launching-Navy-Seal-raids.html
- Our Great God, we ask that You would give wisdom to our military officials as they deal with budget cuts and still plan new strategies against an enemy who thinks he is doing his god's will. Lord, strengthen our military by giving them creative ideas and incredible intelligence in these matters. We pray for the development of new technologies to accomplish what is necessary to bring about peace and order. Thank You for Your protective hand over our fighting men and women.
- "And they shall fight against thee: but they shall not prevail against thee; for I am with thee, saith the Lord, to deliver thee." (Jeremiah 1:19)
2. NETANYAHU APPLAUDS NEW EU SANCTIONS ON IRAN
Iran defiant, warns against 'military adventurism'
Obama declared on Monday that the recently passed boycott of Iranian oil and the imposition of a freeze on Iran's central bank by the EU was exactly what was needed in ongoing efforts "addressing the serious threat presented by Iran's nuclear program." He added that the US "will continue to impose new sanctions to increase the pressure on Iran."
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a similar statement calling the move a "step in the right direction" adding that these sanctions must be evaluated according to the results they will bring. Today, Iran continues to develop nuclear weapons with no disruption." Other Israeli officials echoed these statements, with a general agreement that the sanctions would finally force Teheran to make a choice between dismantling its renegade nuclear program or facing economic collapse.
Although the new sanctions will not go into effect until 1 July, according to various reports, the economic impact is already being felt on the streets of Iranian cities, with a depressed currency and rising prices for food and consumer goods. (ICEJ News)
- Offer a word of praise the the nations of Europe are standing strong against the threat of a nuclear Iran, by imposing these stronger sanctions on that nation. Pray that the nations will take effect in Iran, but will somehow not have an impact on its innocent civilians. Pray!
- "Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven." (Matthew 18:19)
3. IRANIAN LAWMAKERS TO TAKE UP BILL BANNING OIL SALES TO EUROPE
Iran Threatens Closure of Strait of Hormuz
TEHRAN, Iran - Iran's parliament will begin debating a draft bill requiring the government to immediately halt oil exports to Europe, a prominent lawmaker said Wednesday, as Tehran weighs its options following the European Union's decision to stop importing oil from the country. The EU embargo, announced on Monday, was the latest attempt to try to pressure Iran over a nuclear program the United States and its allies argue is aimed at developing nuclear weapons but which Iran says is for purely peaceful purposes. It came just weeks after the U.S. approved, but has yet to enact, new sanctions targeting Iran's Central Bank and, by extension, its ability to sell its oil.
Many Iranian lawmakers and officials have called for an immediate ban on oil exports to the European bloc before its ban fully goes into effect in July, arguing that the 27 EU nations account for only about 18 percent of Iran's overall oil sales and would be hurt more by the decision than Iran. China, a key buyer of Iranian crude, has blasted the embargo. "The bill requires the government to stop selling oil to Europe before the start of European Union oil embargo against Iran," lawmaker Hasan Ghafourifard told the parliament's website, icana.ir. Debate on the bill is to begin on Sunday, he said.
The U.S. sanctions had outraged Iranian officials, prompting repeated threats from various officials that the country could shutter the vital Strait of Hormuz if measures are enacted that affect its oil exports. Roughly a fifth of the world oil passes through the narrow waterway, and the U.S. and others have warned Iran they will not allow it to impede the free flow of traffic in the area. Iran is OPEC's fourth largest producer and most of its crude goes to Europe and Asia.
Iranian officials have said the sanctions will have no effect on the economy and they will find other willing buyers. Analysts and diplomats also have played down the likelihood that Iran will actually move to close the strait - a step that could bring it into direct conflict with U.S. and other Western naval and ground forces stationed in and around the Persian Gulf. (The Associated Press)
- As the noose is pulled ever more tightly around the neck of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadenijad while the nations demand he suspend his nuclear program, pray and bind the spirit of retaliation we see in this report. May Ahmadenijad yield to reality, stand down, and cooperate with the civilized world in all matters related to nuclear technology. Thank the Lord that there are other sources of oil in the world, and call forth an abundant supply for Europe. Pray for a miracle. Pray!
- "Ah, Sovereign LORD, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you." (Jer. 32:17)
4. INDIA TO PAY GOLD INSTEAD OF DOLLARS FOR IRANIAN OIL
India is the first buyer of Iranian oil to agree to pay for its purchases in gold instead of the US dollar, debkafile's intelligence and Iranian sources report exclusively. Those sources expect China to follow suit. India and China take about one million barrels per day, or 40 percent of Iran's total exports of 2.5 million bpd. Both are superpowers in terms of gold assets. By trading in gold, New Delhi and Beijing enable Tehran to bypass the upcoming freeze on its central bank's assets and the oil embargo which the European Union's foreign ministers agreed to impose Monday, Jan. 23. The EU currently buys around 20 percent of Iran's oil exports. India thus joins China in opting out of the US-led European sanctions against Iran's international oil and financial business. Turkey announced publicly last week that it would not adhere to any sanctions against Iran's nuclear program unless they were imposed by the United Nations Security Council.
The EU decision of Monday banned the signing of new oil contracts with Iran at once, while phasing out existing transactions by July 1, 2012, when the European embargo, like the measure enforced by the United States, becomes total. The European foreign ministers also approved a freeze on the assets of the Central Bank of Iran which handles all the country's oil transactions. However, the damage those sanctions cause the Iranian economy will be substantially cushioned by the oil deals to be channeled through Turkish and Indian state banks. China for its part has declared its opposition to sanctions against Iran.
debkafile's intelligence sources disclose that Tehran has set up alternative financial mechanisms with China and Russia for getting paid for its oil in currencies other than US dollars. Both Beijing and Moscow are keeping the workings of those mechanisms top secret. (debkafile)
- Dear Heavenly Father, we humbly come before You in worship and praise as we know You, and You alone, are the source of our strength for facing what is coming upon the earth. Not only are these nations defying the sanctions being imposed to stop the nuclear threat towards so many nations and peoples by Iran, but they are greatly enriching Iran with their gold. These actions are not just a defiance of the sanctions, but will most likely have horrific consequences on financial markets globally. Lord, we repent of how mammon has come to rule the hearts of so many. We know how deserving we are of Your judgment being evoked. Have mercy, Lord, on your people and lead us as You will through the coming times. Amen and Amen!
- "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. Forget a little while and the wicked shall be no more; indeed, you will look carefully for his place, but it shall be no more." (Psalm 37:7-10)
5. CALL FOR EU TO CONTROL GREEK BUDGET
The German government wants Greece to cede sovereignty over tax and spending decisions to a eurozone "budget commissioner" to secure a second 130bn euro bail-out, according to a copy of the proposal obtained by the Financial Times. In what would amount to an extraordinary extension of European Union control over a member state, the new commissioner would have the power to veto budget decisions taken by the Greek government if they were not in line with targets set by international lenders. The new administrator, appointed by other eurozone finance ministers, would take responsibility for overseeing "all major blocks of expenditure" by the Greek government.
The German plan, circulated on Friday afternoon to finance ministry officials from eurozone countries who make up the so-called "euro working group", underscores the depths of mistrust between Greece and its European Union lenders. Despite the appointment of economist Lucas Papademos as technocratic prime minister in November, attitudes towards Greece within the EU have continued to worsen. European officials privately say that there has been little movement on public sector reforms under Mr Papademos. A senior Greek finance ministry official said Athens was unaware of the proposal and could not comment. A German finance ministry spokesman declined to comment. (Financial Times; Wall Street Journal) Read more.
-This article reveals the ascent of Germany as it moves to take control over the sovereignty of Greece and other bankrupt EU nations. Understand, too, that America is following the path of Greece and the Socialist policies of the EU nations, so know and understand the day is surely coming when there will be a world wide dollar crisis. The end of the US Dollar as the world's reserve currency will not only usher in a new "One World Currency," but will be accompanied by the rise of a new "One World Order." All of this was prophesied in the book of Daniel written more than 2,500 years ago. Beginning in Daniel 7:23, we read it was prophesied that through financial and political turmoil the nations of the world would seek a one world currency and one world government . . . After reading this article, you will realize that just as it was prophesied beginning in Daniel 7:23, we are witnessing this prophecy beginning to take form and substance, and soon to become a reality.
Will the Greeks accept such a proposal? Will the leaders of the EU back such a proposal knowing their nation may be next? Watch and pray, and understand times and seasons. [Prayer focus submitted by Barry Battelstein]
- "Of the sons of Issachar, men who understood the times, with knowledge of what Israel should do, their chiefs were two hundred; and all their kinsmen were at their command." (I Chronicles 12:32)
6. ASSAD'S TROOPS CARRY OUT ANOTHER MASSACRE IN SYRIA
Turning a deaf ear to the growing chorus of criticism against its brutal actions, the Assad regime in Syria ordered security forces to storm Douma, a flashpoint suburb of Damascus on Thursday, with loyalist troops going house-to-house and clashing with army defectors, civilians and anyone who got in their way. In this and other incidents around the country at least 34 civilians were killed and many more injured, according to opposition groups. Among the dead this week were reportedly a Red Crescent volunteer and a Syrian priest.
Despite the ongoing violence, large crowds turned out in several cities to show their support for Assad. Meanwhile, reports surfaced in the Iranian media that 11 Iranian "pilgrims" who were in Syria on a "spiritual journey" were kidnapped on their way to Damascus on Thursday. (ICEJ News)
- Abba Father, we cry out tonight for the persecuted church worldwide, and for unbelievers who are also fighting for their freedom. We ask You to interveme in the nation of Syria, breaking the hand of tyranny under Hafez Assad and setting these citizens free. Father God, we ask that You either change Assad's heart, or cause him to be toppled from his throne.
- "Deliver me, O my God, out of the hand of the wicked, Out of the hand of the unrighteous and cruel man. For You are my hope, O Lord GOD; You are my trust from my youth." (Psalm 71:4,5)
7. RUSSIA EMERGES AS SYRIA'S MOST VALUABLE ALLY
As the Arab League agreed to go to the United Nations Security Council early this week with a resolution calling for Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad to step down, Russia was reportedly doing a major arms deal with the beleaguered regime.
The [US] $550 million agreement to sell 36 Yak-130 combat aircraft will not do anything to tip the balance in favor of the Al-Assad regime, which has been engaged in a 10-month conflict with anti-government opposition. But Russia is almost certainly providing arms Damascus needs to hold back the rebels as well as mounting a diplomatic defense of its friend at the U.N.
In a rare glimpse into the Russia-Syrian arms trade, a ship loaded with ammunition from Russia was briefly detained in Cyprus earlier this month before continuing its journey unmolested to the Syrian port of Tartus. Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has vowed that Russia will veto any sanctions as "unfair and counterproductive."
"Syria is an important customer for the Russian military industry and the industry is quite keen to maintain the relationship," Fyodor Lukyanov, the editor-in-chief of the Moscow based foreign policy journal Russia in Global Affairs, told The Media Line. "Syria is one of the few remaining customers in the region and it hosts the only military base - a small one but still a base - that Russia still has outside its own borders." (Excerpts from an article by The Media Line, January 26, 2012) [Reported by: Bridges for Peace]
- Pray that the Lord will intervene and bring this very dangerous relationship to an end, eliminating the danger faced by Israel through a disruption in the balance of power.
- "Do not let your heart faint, do not be afraid, and do not tremble or be terrified because of them; 'for the LORD your God is He who goes with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you.'" (Deuteronomy 20:3b - 4)
8. IRANIAN PASTOR AGAIN THREATENED WITH DEATH; REFUSES TO RECANT HIS FAITH
Christian Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani is facing new pressure to recant his faith in Jesus Christ. Sources in Iran have reported to us that an Iranian judge is once again telling him to deny Christ or he will be executed.
Pastor Youcef is again refusing to recant.
He is still alive today because of international pressure on Iran - people worldwide raising their voices, demanding that his life be spared. We need to keep that pressure on, and the ACLJ is launching a new initiative.
From working closely with Pastor Youcef's Iranian attorney, we know that the more people who speak out for him, the more pressure is placed on Iran to release him. It is absolutely critical that more people learn about Pastor Youcef's plight. Your voice has helped us get the White House, Secretary of State Clinton, Ambassador Rice, the United Nations and countless other elected officials and candidates for office to speak out for Pastor Youcef.
Please take action for Pastor Youcef; follow this link to take action and learn more. (Jay Sekulow; American Center for Law and Justice)
- Jay Sekulow is now utilising a Twitter account to release daily updates about the plight of Pastor Youcef. Please check the link, above, for more information on this new strategy. Let us continue to raise our voices on behalf of the life of this innocent man. Lift up a prayer, too, severing the "political" from the "human" needs here. As Iran is being slowly and deliberately isolated from the nations of the world, may its leaders not use the life of this one man as a "bargaining chip" or an act of retaliation in response. In prayer and through the Blood of the Lamb, cancel any and all agendas surrounding this issue that are not in the will of God. Amen.
- "For the Lord God is a sun and shield; The Lord will give grace and glory; No good thing will He withhold From those who walk uprightly." (Psalm 84:11)
On Capitol Hill This Week: Vol. XIX, No. 3b
DOMESTIC ISSUES
1. OBAMA SIGNS ACTA GLOBAL INTERNET CENSORSHIP TREATY
2. COMBATTING OBAMA'S LAWLESSNESS
3. WARNING: YOUR FREEDOM OF SPEECH UNDER ATTACK
4. OBAMA'S MISSTATEMENTS ON THE STATE OF THE UNION
5. HOMESCHOOLERS CLASH WITH OBAMA'S SCHOOL ATTENDANCE PLAN
6. ON ABORTION: OBAMA V. THE CHURCH
7. KEYSTONE XL: OBAMA SAYS NO TO CANADA'S OIL
8. DHS PRESENTS PLANS TO CONGRESS: WILL MERGE WITH LOCAL/STATE LEO'S
9. SUPREME COURT FORBIDS WARRANTLESS GPS SPYING
10. NO BUDGET IN 1,000 DAYS
11. SENATE: OK TO RAISE DEBT CEILING ANOTHER $1.2 TRILLION
12. REP. DUNCAN HUNTER INTRODUCES "WAR MEMORIAL ACT"
1. OBAMA SIGNS ACTA GLOBAL INTERNET CENSORSHIP TREATY
Months before the debate about Internet censorship raged as SOPA and PIPA dominated the concerns of web users, President Obama signed an international treaty that would allow companies in China or any other country in the world to demand ISPs remove web content in the US with no legal oversight whatsoever. The Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement was signed by Obama on October 1 2011, yet is currently the subject of a White House petition demanding Senators be forced to ratify the treaty. The White House has circumvented the necessity to have the treaty confirmed by lawmakers by presenting it an as "executive agreement," although legal scholars have highlighted the dubious nature of this characterization..
Under the provisions of ACTA, copyright holders will be granted sweeping direct powers to demand ISPs remove material from the Internet on a whim. Whereas ISPs normally are only forced to remove content after a court order, all legal oversight will be abolished, a precedent that will apply globally, rendering the treaty worse in its potential scope for abuse than SOPA or PIPA. Read more.
What does it mean? Obama has pulled a "workaround" endrun. He could not get the political support for SOPA to pass through Congress. So, he went right over the heads and behind our backs of the American people and signed onto an internet censorship treaty at the international level. This treaty has brought thousands of protesters to the streets in Poland. This same ACTA international internet control/censorship treaty was signed by Obama this week. Yet, there seems to be no public outcry to this action in the US? (Hebrew Nation News)
To read an article from BBC News on the response in Poland, go here.
- Father God, Obama continues to circumvent the constitution and reject it's laws. Do a swift job, Lord. We ask You to either change his heart, or to remove him from power, by any legal means necessary. In Jesus’ Name, amen.
- "For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, he has rejected you as king." (1 Samuel 15:23)
2. COMBATTING OBAMA'S LAWLESSNESS
After illegally putting unconfirmed appointees into office when there was no recess by the United States Senate and ignoring the United States Constitution, Barack Obama is continuing to govern by executive order when he cannot get his way in the United States Congress.
The Republican-controlled House of Representatives is finally beginning to fight back. Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins, Republican from Kansas has introduced a concurrent resolution expressing the sense of Congress that any Executive Order that would require federal spending has no binding effect until it is enacted into law through the legislative process. This resolution would therefore clarify congressional authority, as detailed in the Constitution. Before she introduces it, Representative Jenkins is seeking more co-sponsors for her bill... (Christian Coalition of America) Read more.
- Thank You, Lord, for moving upon the heart of Congresswoman Jenkins to introduce this bill. We ask that it find favor with the majority of the members of Congress, for swift passage in that chamber. In Your Name, amen.
- "Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven." (Matthew 18:19)
3. WARNING: YOUR FREEDOM OF SPEECH UNDER ATTACK
We have become aware of United Nations Resolution 16/18 that if implemented, can have a direct impact on our right to freedom of speech in the United States. Please be sure to watch this brief video by Best Current News that gives the background of this resolution.
As a concerned citizen we suggest you share this video and information with those on your email address list, including ministry contacts, friends, and all who need informed. (AGLOW)
Note: Full details on this alert can be found in a separate article in this edition of the OCAP.
4. OBAMA'S MISSTATEMENTS ON THE STATE OF THE UNION
Only a president long shielded from criticism and accountability could make the kind of State of the Union speech Obama did Tuesday night.
It's hard to know where to begin, given his repetition of tired ideas from his previous SOTUs, his taking credit for successful policies he resisted and omitting failed ones he promoted, his numerous misrepresentations on issues big and small, and his glaring refusal to address the main issues that threaten the nation. (Newsmax) Read more.
WHAT A CONTRAST -While Obama and his campaign is championing class warfare and central planning, one presidential candidate is telling Americans that rights come from God and not from government. During the most recent presidential debate in Florida, former Senator Rick Santorum received thunderous applause when he reminded the audience that our rights come from God but in Obama's view our rights come from government which means they can be taken away by government. (Religious Freedom Coalition) To view Senator Santorum's message, go here.
Many Turned Off by State of the Union Address
U.S. Rep. Doug Lamborn was not the only federal official to skip Obama's annual State of the Union address Tuesday.
In addition, as cameras scanned the audience assembled in the chamber of the U.S. House of Representatives, it was hard to miss the fact that only five of the nine U.S. Supreme Court justices were present, while four more were conspicuously absent: conservative Justices Samuel Alito, Antonin Scalia and Clarence Thomas. (Justice Sonia Sotomayor - one of Obama's appointees - was likely on her way to Guam.) (CitizenLink)
- Gracious God, we praise You that our country was founded by Godly men who knew You and knew that You and You alone are the giver of true freedom. We give honor to You for such a foundation and we affirm that covenant with You made by our country's founders. We thank You for a candidate who will bring attention to this during the debates. We pray for a stirring up in America to return to the God of our Fathers.
- "As the whirlwind passeth, so is the wicked no more: but the righteous is an everlasting foundation." (Proverbs 10:25)
5. HOMESCHOOLERS CLASH WITH OBAMA'S SCHOOL ATTENDANCE PROPOSAL
In the State of the Union address Obama called on all states to raise their school compulsory attendance age to 18, unnecessarily adding to bureaucratic requirements for homeschoolers.
Homeschool advocates (believe that) parents - not the federal government and certainly not Obama - are the ones who should decide how children are educated and when they're ready to graduate from high school. But Obama presumptively spoke on behalf of parents and the states: "So tonight, I am proposing that every state - every state - requires that all students stay in high school until they graduate or turn 18."
Ultimately, a formulaic and compulsory approach to education fails to instill in children a love of learning or a quality education. HSLDA President J. Michael Smith confirmed, "HSLDA has consistently protected homeschool families from the harmful effects of compulsory attendance education in their states, reinforcing the parental right to choose the method and duration of education most fitting to the individual needs and gifts of their children." (Oregon Faith Report; Home School Legal Defense Association) Read more.
- Pray that this proposal never sees the light of day.
- "Devise your strategy, but it will be thwarted; propose your plan, but it will not stand, for God is with us." (Isaiah 8:10)
6. ON ABORTION: OBAMA V. THE CHURCH
Religious liberty suffered another blow Friday (Jan. 20) when the Obama Administration mandated free contraception coverage, including the abortion drug "ella." Religious groups had sought a waiver from this mandate, but the Administration refused. Instead, the Washington Post reported that they will have "a one-year delay before they must comply with the new rule."
Archbishop Timothy Dolan, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, blasted the mandate and the Obama Administration's disregard for religious liberty. Here is an excerpt of his statement:
"In effect, the president is saying we have a year to figure out how to violate our consciences. To force American citizens to choose between violating their consciences and forgoing their healthcare is literally unconscionable. The government should not force Americans to act as if pregnancy is a disease to be prevented at all costs."
I would be remiss if I did not take this opportunity in this "End of Day" report to remind folks once again about why politics is so important. It is literally a matter of life and death. The men and women we elect to public office appoint and confirm the justices who sit on the Supreme Court. (Gary Bauer; End-of-Day; Monday, January 23, 2012)
There are four justices on the high court who realize Roe v. Wade is terrible law. There are four justices who will fall on their sword to defend abortion-on-demand. The deciding vote, Justice Anthony Kennedy, seems to have no firm philosophical convictions. If Obama gets four more years and one or two more appointments to the Supreme Court, he will tip the balance on the high court. And abortion-on-demand, not to mention a radical redefinition of marriage, will be enshrined in our laws for generations to come.
- EVERY VOTE COUNTS. CHOOSE WISELY! And pray that the American public will, indeed, heed these words of wisdom from Gary Bauer. CHOOSE LIFE!
- "This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live." (Dt. 30:19)
7. KEYSTONE XL: OBAMA SAYS NO TO CANADA'S OIL
In a stunning development this month, the Obama Administration once again rejected the Keystone XL pipeline. The pipeline would have transported crude oil from the Canadian tar sands to refineries along the Gulf Coast. It would have provided more oil from a friendly ally while reducing America's dependence on imported oil from hostile regimes like Venezuela or those in the Middle East.
Last month a bi-partisan majority in Congress passed legislation demanding a decision on the pipeline within 60 days. Congress took this unusual step because the Obama White House said it would wait until after the 2012 elections to make a decision. The administration now claims it is denying approval because it can't make an informed decision in 60 days. But according to the Wall Street Journal, "The U.S. government has been reviewing the 1,700-mile Keystone XL pipeline since 2008."
But Obama just can't bring himself to approve a pipeline that would provide America with oil from Canada and create tens of thousands of jobs in the process -- even when his own advisors recommend it. He rejects the one really "shovel ready" project on his desk while spending billions on failed alternative energy companies. (Gary Bauer; End-of-Day; 1/18/12, excerpt)
- I am not sure any of us understood the true power of the presidency, until we elected one who is using that power to destroy our nation. Ask our Lord, Himself, to impact the heart of Hussein Obama, turning him to righteousness, salvation and sanity. May God yet have mercy upon all of us. (Sara Ballenger; Capitol Hill Prayer Partners)
- "Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong; for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away." (Psalm 37:1)
>> Read more in Human Events here.
8. DHS PRESENTS PLANS TO CONGRESS: WILL MERGE WITH LOCAL/STATE LEO'S
Plan will combine databases with local law enforcement officials (LEO's)
(Excerpt from pages 3 and 4 of document at Aspen Institute. To read full article, go here.)
As threats grow more localized, the prospect that a state/local partner will generate the first lead to help understand a new threat, or even an emerging cell, will grow. And the federal government's need to train, and even staff, local agencies, such as major city police departments, will grow. Because major cities are the focus for threat, these urban areas also will become the sources of intelligence that will help understand these threats at the national level, DHS might move toward decentralizing more of its analytic workforce to partner with state/local agencies in the collection and dissemination of intelligence from the local level.
- Pray that God will bring wisdom to state and local governments regarding any actual "merger" with DHS. Sharing information is significantly different than having interference from federal officials who do not know the people or culture of a region. Also pray that people will be protected from "collection and dissemination" of information that could be twisted or used against the innocent.
- "The wicked watches the righteous, and seeks to slay him. The Lord will not leave him in his hand . . " (Psalm 37:32,33a)
9. SUPREME COURT FORBIDS WARRANTLESS GPS SPYING
In a rare defeat for law enforcement, the Supreme Court unanimously agreed on Monday to bar police from installing GPS technology to track suspects without first getting a judge's approval. The justices made clear it wouldn't be their final word on increasingly advanced high-tech surveillance of Americans. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., said the court's decision was "a victory for privacy rights and for civil liberties in the digital age." He said the ruling highlighted many new privacy threats posed by new technologies. Leahy has introduced legislation to update the Electronic Communications Privacy Act, a 1986 law that specifies standards for government monitoring of cellphone conversations and Internet communications. (Washington Times) Read more.
- Thank You, Lord, that we are finally seeing some concrete actions in favor of protecting America's citizens from the overwhelming potential abuses of personal privacy through the use of technology. We pray that technological advances will not replace the protections and liberties granted by the American Constitution.
- " Keep me as the apple of Your eye; Hide me under the shadow of Your wings." (Psalm 17:7-9)
10. NO BUDGET IN 1,000 DAYS
It has now been more than 1,000 days since the Senate has passed a budget for our federal government. Although the Republican House has passed a budget the last two years, the Democrat controlled Senate last passed a budget on April 29, 2009. At that time the national debt was $11.15 trillion. Today, the national debt is $15.2 trillion. Every American now owes $48,700, or, another way to put it is that every U.S. household owes $128,300. (Religious Freedom Coalition)
- Heavenly Father, we ask that You would bring about fiscal responsibility to our legislative bodies. We ask that all hindrances be removed and all subterfuges be eliminated. We ask that You would removed those who have been used by the enemy to harm our country and make it a debtor nation.
- "Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed ye judges of the earth." (Psalm 2:10)
11. SENATE VOTE GIVES OBAMA OPTION TO RAISE DEBT CEILING ANOTHER $1.2 TRILLION
Senate Republicans were unable to muster enough votes Thursday for a bill opposing another $1.2 trillion increase in the debt ceiling.
The measure was defeated on a 52-44 vote. Lawmakers would have needed 60 votes in order to push the bill through, and more than that to override a presidential veto. The House had approved the measure last week, but it was expected to fail in the Senate.
The vote caps an unusual process set up at the end of the debt-ceiling debate last summer. The process allows lawmakers, mostly Republicans, to vote against debt increases but not actually block them. Blocking them would provoke a first-ever, market-rattling default on U.S. obligations. (Christian Coalition of America) Read more.
- Lord God, we have a president and many in Congress who refuse to operate within the laws of our government. Deliver them from greed and the love of money.
- "For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs." (1Timothy 6:10)
12. REP. DUNCAN HUNTER INTRODUCES "WAR MEMORIAL ACT"
Rep. Duncan Hunter introduced H.R. 290, which would ensure that war memorials are able to include religious symbols. The measure specifically states that religious symbols may be included "[t]o recognize the religious background of members of the United States Armed Forces." Rep. Hunter introduced the bill in response to the Ninth Circuit's January 2011 ruling that declared unconstitutional the Mt. Soledad Veterans Memorial.
- We praise You, Father, for concerned and responsive members of Congress who will use their Constitutionally-given ability to push back at the anti-Christ tide of wicked rulings by liberal judges. We pray for swift and unanimous passage of this bill in both Houses of Congress. Bless this effort, in the name of Jesus.
- "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance." (Psalm 33:12)
An Historic Trial in Georgia
Obama-No-Show at (Eligibility) Trial:
Sworn testimony reveals fake Social Security number, other gaps
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Georgia citizens today delivered sworn testimony to a court that Hussein Obama is slam-dunk disqualified from having his name on the 2012 presidential ballot in the state, because his father never was a U.S. citizen, which prevents him from qualifying as a "natural-born citizen" as the U.S. Constitution requires for a president.
The historic hearing was the first time that a court has accepted arguments on the merits of the controversy over Obama's status. His critics say he never met the constitutional requirements to occupy the Oval Office, and the states and Congress failed in their obligations to make sure only a qualified president is inaugurated. His supporters, meanwhile, argue he won the 2008 election and therefore was "vetted" by America.
The hearing was before Judge Michael Malihi of the Georgia state Office of State Administrative Hearings. In Georgia, a state law requires "every candidate for federal" office who is certified by the state executive committees of a political party or who files a notice of candidacy "shall meet the constitutional and statutory qualifications for holding the office being sought."
State law also grants the secretary of state and any "elector who is eligible to vote for a candidate" in the state the authority to raise a challenge to a candidate's qualifications, the judge determined. (WorldNetDaily) Read more.
- Pray for the protection of Judge Malihi, and pray that many other states will follow the lead of the State of Georgia in examining the evidence in hand to determine whether Barack Hussein Obama is qualified, under the Constitution, to run for the Office of President of the United States.
Pray, too, that truth will be revealed in this situation, and that truth will bring good consequences for America. Pray also that the scales on the eyes of the news media will be lifted.
- "Shall the throne of iniquity, which devises evil by law, have fellowship with you? . . . But the Lord has been my defense, and my God the rock of my refuge." (Psalm 94:20,22)
Freedom of Speech in Danger
ALERT: UN Resolution 16/18 is a challenge to our freedom of speech in the U.S.Constitution
We have become aware of United Nations Resolution 16/18 that if implemented, can have a direct impact on our right to freedom of speech in the United States. Please watch this brief video by Best Current News that gives the background of this resolution. (More details below.)
Warning: Your Freedom of Speech Under Attack
As a concerned citizen we suggest you share this video and information with those on your email address list, including ministry contacts, friends, and all who need informed.
This past December the U.S. State Department hosted a three-day, closed-door international conference to discuss implementation of Resolution 16/18 with members of the OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation) that if passed, will criminalize the criticism of Islam. The OIC is the world's largest Islamic Organization with 56 member states and the Palestinian Authority, and is the second largest intergovernmental agency behind the United Nations. This is composed of Kings and Heads of State as the Supreme authority of the organization. These nations typically vote as a bloc within the U.N.
By discussing the implementation of Resolution 16/18, the U.S. State Department immediately gives validity to the OIC's position. The OIC has attempted for the past 12 years to pass resolutions that would criminalize the 'defamation of religions', specifically Islam. There appears to be nothing in this that mentions criticism of Christianity or Judaism. Under the resolution, even if what you say about Islam is true, if it incites Muslims to violence, you could be held criminally liable. Unlike traditional U.S. defamation laws, truth would not be considered a defense.
To read reports on this meeting click the following links for articles written by reputable sources: The Investigative Project on Terrorism and Hudson Institute.
The next meeting to discuss the implementation of this resolution will be held this spring in Europe. Many Europeans are already limited in what they can say because of 'hate speech' laws in their nations. The OIC nations already restrict speech so the resolution is meant to silence critics of Islam within western nations. Even if the U.S. does not implement the resolution, if it is by Europe, we could be faced with the possibility of it becoming international law.
There are many who are speaking about the ramifications of this resolution. One leader stated: "Christians need to be concerned regarding this measure because if implemented in the way the OIC desires, it would severely limit what Americans could say regarding Islam. This would include examining the beliefs of Islam, criticizing the prophet or any of the practices within Islam (including honor killings, forced marriages, etc.) or taken to its ultimate, yet logical conclusion proclaiming that 'Jesus Christ is the Son of God' since that would be considered blasphemy within Islam. Elected public officials need to be made aware of this resolution and the State Department's activities."
The video lists the Chairmen of committees in our federal government who could hold public hearings.
To contact congressional members of the House of Representatives, go to: https://writerep.house.gov/writerep/welcome.shtml
To contact your U.S. Senator, go to: http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm
As responsible American citizens it is very important that we let our concerns be known to our national and state representatives. Our freedom of speech must not be compromised!
(Source: AGLOW International)
CALL TO ACTION: Capitol Hill Prayer Partners stands in agreement with AGLOW International of the danger of this move taken by the OIC in the United Nations. In addition to the action recommended above, we ask you to please circulate this video -- and this alert -- to your own networks of friends. Thank you.
- "Thy people shall volunteer freely in the day of Thy power!" (Psalm 110:3)
This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
WORD OF GOD (D'vahr Ha'Ehlo-heem)
"He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God." (Revelation 19:13)
Just as You were in the beginning, You are the Word of God. Help me to get to know You more, day by day, by reading and meditating on Your Word, on You. How I love You, Lord!
(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)
