Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
"Partners in Prayer for the Nation"
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net
On Capitol Hill This Week Volume XIX, Number 7a
March 12 - 16, 2012
"The LORD will be king over the whole earth. On that day there will be one LORD, and his name the only name." (Zechariah 14:9)
DOMESTIC ISSUES
Obama and the Constitution
1. PANETTA CITES "INTERNATIONAL PERMISSION" FOR MILITARY ACTION
2. H. CON. RES. 107: (IN RESPONSE TO PANETTA'S TESTIMONY)
3. OBAMA ADMIN MUST FOLLOW THE LAW: NO TAX MONEY FOR UNESCO
4. ARIZONA SHERIFF INVESTIGATES OBAMA'S ELIGIBILITY TO RUN FOR OFFICE
5. ARPAIO INVESTIGATION: OBAMA MIGHT BE KENYAN
6. DID THREATS SILENCE MEDIA ON OBAMA PROBE?
1. PANETTA CITES "INTERNATIONAL PERMISSION" FOR MILITARY ACTION
Panetta ignores Act of Congress to go to war
During a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing yesterday, Panetta and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. Martin Dempsey brazenly admitted that their authority comes not from the U.S. Constitution, but that the United States is subservient to and takes its marching orders from the United Nations and NATO, international bodies over which the American people have no democratic influence.
Panetta was asked by Senator Jeff Sessions, "We spend our time worrying about the U.N., the Arab League, NATO and too little time, in my opinion, worrying about the elected representatives of the United States. As you go forward, will you consult with the United States Congress?"
The Defense Secretary responded "You know, our goal would be to seek international permission. And we would come to the Congress and inform you and determine how best to approach this, whether or not we would want to get permission from the Congress."
Despite Sessions' repeated efforts to get Panetta to acknowledge that the United States Congress is supreme to the likes of NATO and the UN, Panetta exalted the power of international bodies over the US legislative branch.
"I'm really baffled by the idea that somehow an international assembly provides a legal basis for the United States military to be deployed in combat," Sessions said. "I don't believe it's close to being correct. They provide no legal authority. The only legal authority that's required to deploy the United States military is of the Congress and the president and the law and the Constitution." (Conservative Action Alerts) The video of the Senate Armed Services Committee can be seen here.
- Father. in heaven, let not man move the clock of time according to their dictates, but hold America and these present hurdles under the mighty hand of God's prophetic timetable. The end is not yet come, and America will yet be under the covering of the solid and righteous Constitution of the United States. America is and has always been guided by the hand of Almighty God and will forever be. No foreign power will be allowed by God to come in and take over. We, as a nation, stand in the strength, liberty and freedom of the Constitution that God established for our country and woe be unto those who take that fatal step that is the one that brings holy judgment upon them. God, send the warring angels from heaven in battle array to fight this battle for our sovereign country. In the Name of Jesus Christ, amen.
- "The righteous shall rejoice when he sees the vengeance of God: he shall wash his feet in the blood of the wicked. So that a man shall say, Verily there is a reward for the righteous: verily He is a God that judges in the earth." (Psalm 58:10-11)
2. H. CON. RES. 107: GROUNDS FOR IMPEACHMENT
Defense Secretary Leon Panetta's testimony asserting that the United Nations and NATO have supreme authority over the actions of the United States military, instead of the U.S.
Congress under the War Powers Act, has prompted Congressman Walter Jones to introduce a resolution that re-affirms such behavior as an "impeachable high crime and misdemeanor" under the Constitution.
Yesterday Rep. Walter Jones, Republican of North Carolina, introduced H. Concurrent Resolution 107, which calls on the House, the Senate Concurring, to do the following:
"IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
March 7, 2012
Mr. JONES submitted the following concurrent resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary
CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
Expressing the sense of Congress that the use of offensive military force by a President without prior and clear authorization of an Act of Congress constitutes an impeachable high crime and misdemeanor under article II, section 4 of the Constitution.
Whereas the cornerstone of the Republic is honoring Congress's exclusive power to declare war under article I, section 8, clause 11 of the Constitution: Now, therefore, be it Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That it is the sense of Congress that, except in response to an actual or imminent attack against the territory of the United States, the use of offensive military force by a President without prior and clear authorization of an Act of Congress violates Congress's exclusive power to declare war under article I, section 8, clause 11 of the Constitution and therefore constitutes an impeachable high crime and misdemeanor under article II, section 4 of the Constitution." (Conservative Action Alerts)
- Father, we ask that the God of heaven will stand behind this Concurrent Resolution, and that if found guilty, the law and the honor of the Constitution of the United States will be upheld and be effective to produce a decided action under Article II, Section 4 of the Constitution. Send Your angel to stand beside Rep. Walter Jones and strengthen him by Your power. In the Name of Jesus.
- "Talk no more so very proudly; Let no arrogance come from your mouth. For the LORD is the God of knowledge; and by Him actions are weighed." (1 Samuel 2:3) "Rejoice, O you nations, with God's people: for He will avenge the blood of his servants, and will render vengeance to his adversaries, and will be merciful unto His land, and to His people." (Deuteronomy 32:43)
3. OBAMA ADMIN. MUST FOLLOW THE LAW: NO TAX MONEY FOR UNESCO
Today, Jay Sekulow, ACLJ Chief Counsel, sent a letter to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton outlining the illegality of President Obama's request for renewed U.S. funding for a United Nations (UN) organization which had unilaterally recognized the terrorist-led Palestinian Authority has a nation. U.S. federal law prohibits taxpayer funds from going to any UN agency which unilaterally recognizes Palestine as a state in contravention to international law and recognized Middle East peace negotiations.
Last October, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) voted to admit "Palestine" as a full member, essentially recognizing Palestinian statehood. The U.S. immediately cut off funding for UNESCO. However, President Obama's budget proposal submitted last month requested $79 million dollars in taxpayer funding for UNESCO.
The ACLJ's letter notes that two laws enacted in the 1990s and signed by Presidents Bush and Clinton prohibit U.S. taxpayer funding for any UN agency that unilaterally grants Palestine the same standing as member states. The letter states: " . . . any plan to provide funds to UNESCO is in violation of existing U.S. law. In light of the foregoing, the President's request to appropriate funds from the U.S. Treasury for UNESCO is in violation of current U.S. law and must be rejected. (ACLJ) Read more.
You can read the entire letter here.
- Offer praise that Jay Sekulow and the ACLJ have taken the lead on confronting this illegal action by the President of the United States. Once again, this administration must be called to account for its defiance of our law under the Constitution. We urge you to support ACLJ in this effort with prayer and with action, to see that our tax monies are not used to fund UNESCO. Thank you.
- "Come out from among them, and be separate, says the Lord. do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you. I will be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty." (2 Corinthians 6;17,18)
4. ARIZONA SHERIFF INVESTIGATES OBAMA'S ELIGIBILITY TO RUN FOR OFFICE
Record number view his press conference online
How many different people watched the live-stream telecast of Sheriff Joe Arpaio's press conference last week about his investigation into questions surrounding Hussein Obama's constitutional eligibility for office? It turns out there were more people watching the live debut of WND TV than any previous news event live-streamed on the Net.
A total of 72,076 unique viewers watched the stream of the 90-minute press conference from Phoenix in which Arpaio charged Obama's birth certificate, released last spring and posted on the White House website, is "fraudulent" and a "forgery." That number, of course, does not include the hundreds of thousands who have since watched the recording of the video.
Meanwhile, Arpaio's investigation continues - now as the first bona fide law-enforcement investigation of Obama's eligibility with subpoena power. (WorldNetDaily) Read more.
You can view Sheriff Arpaio's press conference by going here.
- Offer a chorus of praise for the diligent work of Sheriff Joe Arpaio in pursuing Obama's eligibility to run for President under the Constitution. Pray that other states will follow his lead and that, in the end, only those who have been legally vetted to serve this office will have their names on the ballot in November.
- "A thousand will flee at the threat of one; at the threat of five you will all flee away, till you are left like a flagstaff on a mountaintop, like a banner on a hill." (Isaiah 30:17)
5. ARPAIO INVESTIGATION: HUSSEIN OBAMA MIGHT BE KENYAN
Among the records missing for Barack Obama that would be available for an ordinary president are passport records, school records such as those from Punahou, Occidental, Columbia and Harvard, Harvard Law Review writings, scholarly articles for the University of Chicago, state bar association records from Illinois, Illinois state senate records, the marriage and divorce documents for his mother, his adoption records and others. Now it has been revealed that the Cold Case Posse assembled by Sheriff Joe Arpaio in Maricopa County, Ariz., cannot confirm yet that Obama was not born in Kenya and brought to the United States as a days-old infant for his birth to be registered in Hawaii. The reason? Missing records. (WorldNetDaily) Read more.
- Lord, wherever there is smoke, there is fire. This issue will not die until all documents have been produced and verified. We pray that You will bring truth to light in a way that the citizens and regular media can understand.
- "The lip of truth shall be established forever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment." [Proverbs 12:19]
6. DID THREATS SILENCE MEDIA ON OBAMA PROBE?
The lead investigator in Sheriff Joe Arpaio's review of the authenticity of Hussein Obama's birth certificate today unloaded a bombshell about the case: that he was told by sources members of the media were threatened with federal investigations should they continue to report on the birth certificate issue.
Lead investigator Mike Zullo told WND that as he was preparing information to be presented to the public "it was clear that the mainstream media was not going to be in attendance" at the sheriff's scheduled new conference, where he presented facts suggesting both fraud and forgery in the image of a Hawaiian birth certificate that the White House released last year's "proof positive" of Obama's eligibility for office.
"During our investigation, we actually were told [that media] had been threatened with FTC investigations. Commentators [had been] threatened with their jobs," Zullo said. The threats were so intimidating that some individuals quit their positions over safety concerns for their families, he said.
So the problem became to get the information to the American public in spite of an intentional media blackout, since citizens still must make critical leadership decisions about their government through the election process. The solution was an ebook with details from the investigation, the evidence that was accumulated, and the issues that remain for Arpaio and his investigators to pursue. (WorldNetDaily) Read more.
- This situation is now getting to be very serious. First, the president ignores Congress and puts our soldiers in harm's way on his own. Next, he directs his administration to spend taxpayer money for UNESCO, against known law. And now, it appears that his adminstration is trying to cover up an investigation about his eligibility to run for office by placing the media under a "gag order" in reporting the same. Enough is enough. Spread the word; get the facts out. Let the people choose wisely who should serve as our next president, if impeachment does not come first.
- "The wicked flee when no man pursues: but the righteous are bold as a lion." (Proverbs 28:1)
>>See also an article on WorldNetDaily on tihs topic, called "Pravda Asks: What Happened to American Media?" [Accuses U.S. press of 'deliberately hiding evidence' of Obama's 'fraud'] Go here.
Obamacare and the Conscience Clause
1. WHITE HOUSE ORGANIZES PRAYER VIGIL FOR OBAMACARE OUTSIDE SUPREME COURT
2. OBAMA, CENTRALIZED GOVERNMENT AND FAITH
3. CONGRESSMEN SUPPORT RELIGIOUS FREEDOM
4. OBAMACARE AND CONSCIENCE: ONE PRIEST SPEAKS OUT
5. OUTRAGE OVER "POST BIRTH ABORTION"
6. OBAMA'S PRIORITY: ABORTION V. ADOPTION
1. WHITE HOUSE ORGANIZES PRAYER VIGIL FOR OBAMACARE OUTSIDE SUPREME COURT
Hearings will begin on March 26
As the White House struggles to garner support for Obamacare as it approaches Supreme Court arguments on the new health care law, the administration is not leaving anything to chance - not even forces from heaven above. Yes, on Wednesday, White House officials reportedly called on dozens of nonprofit leaders to aid them in organizing a prayer vigil outside the court - right when justices plan to hear arguments for three days beginning March 26.
In a push that hopes to shape public opinion on the issue at the very center of the battle for the White House and Congress, advocates and officials set their strategy to win favor in motion. White House officials, however, deny they are trying to influence others or garner support by facilitating rallies outside the Supreme Court. "The White House was very encouraging and supportive of our activities," said Ronald F. Pollack, executive director of Families USA. Pollack said the theme of the Supreme Court events would be, "Protect our health care, protect the law." Jennifer M. Ng'andu from the National Council of La Raza said White House officials stressed that the court case provided "a great opportunity to highlight benefits of the law for real people."
A White House official who attended the session said that at least 100 people were present. According to the Times, more than 60 organizations sent representatives to the meeting.
EXCERPT FROM NEW YORK TIMES (embedded in this article)
At the White House meeting on Wednesday, a wide range of advocates representing consumers and people with diseases and disabilities - as well as doctors and nurses, labor unions and religious organizations - discussed plans to bolster the landmark law, which is being challenged by 26 states as unconstitutional.
Supporters of the law plan to hold events outside the court on each day of oral argument. The events include speeches by people with medical problems who have benefited or could benefit from the law. In addition, supporters will arrange for radio hosts to interview health care advocates at a "radio row," at the United Methodist Building on Capitol Hill.
People who attended the meeting on Wednesday said the speakers included Jennifer Palmieri, deputy communications director at the White House; Jon Carson, director of the president's Office of Public Engagement; Jeanne M. Lambrew, deputy assistant to the president for health policy; and Mark B. Childress, a deputy chief of staff at the White House. (The Blaze) Read more.
- In light of this information, we make one single decree:
"The LORD is far from the wicked but he hears the prayer of the righteous." (Prov. 15:29)
- Pray for those who are gathered outside the steps of the Supreme Court, for they have been blinded by the evil one, and they know not what they do. May our God show each one His mercy, and draw each soul to Him unto salvation. In Jesus' Name, amen.
- "Therefore hear the word of the LORD, you scoffers who rule this people in Jerusalem. You boast, "We have entered into a covenant with death, with the realm of the dead we have made an agreement. When an overwhelming scourge sweeps by, it cannot touch us, for we have made a lie our refuge and falsehood our hiding place. . . ."
"So this is what the Sovereign LORD says:
Your covenant with death will be annulled; your agreement with the realm of the dead will not stand. . . . " (Isaiah 28:14-16, 18 [in part])
2. OBAMA, CENTRALIZED GOVERNMENT AND FAITH
Presidential candidate Rick Santorum summed up his message this past Tuesday by saying: "This is an election about fundamental liberty. And the signature piece, the signature piece of legislation that points this out, where you have economic rights created by the government, and then the government using its heavy hand to force you to buy insurance, to force you to take policies that you don't want, and, of course, to force you to take coverages that may even violate your faith convictions."
That is the key: Hussein Obama believes that government overrides any individual freedom; that the 'common good' as defined by him gives government the right to not only intrude upon but control the individual actions of each citizen. (Religious Freedom Coalition)
-Our Mighty God, thank you that this candidate and others have voiced concerns about this unlawful mandate and we pray for strong voices to rise up against it. In the name of Jesus, we speak defeat to the law forcing citizens to buy and use governmental healthcare only and we come against the requirements to violate one's conscience. We pray for Americans to use the power of the vote wisely, knowing they will have to answer to You for it. Thank you, that our hope is in You. In Jesus' Name, amen.
-"This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come." (2 Timothy 3:1)
3. CONGRESSMEN SUPPORT RELIGIOUS FREEDOM
Amid recent attacks by the Obama Administration on religious freedom, Congressman Jeff Landry (R, LA-03) led a coalition of 79 House Members in sending a letter to the Budget Committee requesting that no funding be allocated to any effort which forces entities to violate their sacred beliefs. The letter urges the Budget Committee to remember the faith of our Founding Fathers and preserve our fundamental religious freedoms. (Religious Freedom Coalition) Read more
- Father, we thank You for Congressmen and women who will stand up to speak for those who are led by You to set boundaries on doing the things they know You consider wicked. We ask for more men and women to take the same strong stand against tyranny of the conscience. Lord, please make a way where there does not seem to be one. Raise a strong standard against those who would force others to violate their beliefs. In Jesus' Name, amen.
-"When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him." (Isaiah 59:19 b)
3. OBAMACARE AND CONSCIENCE: ONE PRIEST SPEAKS OUT
A Catholic Homily that is sweeping the nation
On February 5, 2012 Father Sammie Maletta delivered a Homily at St. John the Evangelist Parish in St. John, Indiana. This Homily addressed how President Obama is threatening our Religious Freedom and declaring war with the Catholic Church. Please take a few moments to listen. No one sums it up quite like Father Maletta.
To view the video of Father Manetta's homily, go here.
To fight the HHS Mandate, go here.
- Offer a word of praise for this bold statement made by one Catholic priest in Indiana. Pray that many more voices would be raised in our nation, to decry and to destroy this mandate. Pray!
- "Blessed are they who maintain justice, who constantly do what is right." (Psalm 106:3)
5. CONGRESSIONAL PRAYER CAUCUS OPPOSES HHS MANDATE
Members of the Congressional Prayer Caucus are also speaking out against this mandate. We refer you to their blog by going here.
Please note especially two articles on the CPC blog, as follows:
1. "Religious Freedom is the Crux of the Matter," posted March 9th
2. "The State of Religious Freedom in America," posted on February 17th.
- Give thanks to the LORD for these men and women in Congress, as well as many more, who are also lifting up their voices to oppose the tyranny of the HHS Mandate. Please ask our Lord to place His Hand of protection over each one, and to grant them wisdom, strength and grace in the days ahead as they continue to wage this war on behalf of us all.
- "Fight the good fight of faith." (I Timothy 6:12)
5. OUTRAGE OVER "POST BIRTH ABORTION"
Congressman Joe Pitts (R-PA) went to the floor of the House to express his outrage over an article in the February edition of the Journal of Medical Ethics titled "After-birth abortion: why should the baby live?" The authors state that "merely being human is not in itself a reason for ascribing someone the right to life." I am sure that Adolf Hitler would agree, if he were alive. He did not ascribe the right to life to any Jew. (Religious Freedom Coalition)
- Heavenly Father, we are appalled at the notion that a human being can be killed if he or she is deemed too sick to survive in the opinion of so called experts. Lord, we believe in miracles and ask that an outrage would come against this barbaric practice. Thank you for voices in Congress to address this issue of infanticide. In Jesus' Name, amen.
- "Thou shalt not kill." (Exodus 20:13)
6. OBAMA'S PRIORITY: ABORTION V. ADOPTION
Abortion Funding Yes, Adoption Funding No
Hussein Obama's recent budget proposal would end a lifesaving adoption program while continuing to advocate for hundreds of millions of dollars to subsidize the abortion industry.
On December 31, 1998, Hannah Strege was born to proud parents, John and Marlene Strege. As the father of two (and soon to be three), I can tell you that every birth is a miracle, and every child is a gift from God. However, there was and is something uniquely special about Hannah. Hannah was the first baby ever delivered after having been adopted as a frozen embryo. These babies are often referred to as snowflake babies.
Snowflake babies begin their journey to an adoptive family when the in-vitro fertilization process of another couple generates "leftover" embryos. When this occurs, the genetic parents of these embryos have the option to give them up for adoption rather than allow for them to be simply destroyed. As evidenced by Hannah (and many more after her), the result can be truly life-giving, and can help couples realize the desire of welcoming a child into their family.
In recent years, the federal government has been promoting this embryo adoption program by providing funding to increase awareness of its existence. Last fiscal year, $1.9 million was used for this purpose. However, President Obama's Fiscal Year 2013 budget proposes an end to this funding. (Life News) Read more. [Reported by: Christian Coalition of America]
- Stand in the gap and cry out in prayer for a nation, and a president, that values death more than life. Yes, difficult decisions must indeed be now made regarding our national budget, but not at the expense of LIFE. Amen.
- "Arise, cry out in the night, as the watches of the night begin; pour out your heart like water in the presence of the Lord. Lift up your hands to him for the lives of your children, who faint from hunger at the head of every street." (Lamentations 2:19)
More News from the Hill
1. GOP MOVES TO PROTECT NUCLEAR ARSENAL FROM OBAMA
2. SENATE DEMOCRATS DEFEAT PIPELINE AND JOBS
3. JOBLESS STATS REVEAL DISPARITIES AS ECONOMY STARTS TO RECOVER
4. TEA PARTY SENATORS UNVEIL FIVE-YEAR PLAN TO BALANCE THE BUDGET
5. PENTAGON TRIES TO SELL SKEPTICAL CONGRESS ON NEW ROUNDS OF BASE CLOSURES
6. H.R. 2299: CHILD INTERSTATE ABORTION NOTIFICATION ACT (CIANA)
1. GOP MOVES TO PROTECT NUCLEAR ARSENAL FROM OBAMA
A senior House Republican leader of the Armed Services Committee filed legislation on Thursday that would limit nuclear warhead cuts under a treaty with Russia and prevent President Obama from cutting strategic nuclear forces by 80 percent. Representative Mike Turner (R., Ohio), chairman of the strategic forces subcommittee, said in an interview that the legislation he authored was introduced in response to the failure by the president to follow through on promises two years ago to spend $8 billion to modernize aging U.S. strategic weapons and infrastructure.
The modernization-funding program was a precondition for many Senate Republicans who agreed to vote in favor of ratifying the New START arms treaty with Russia in December 2010. The administration's current defense budget request, however, fails to provide full funding for the nuclear modernization program and prompted Turner and six other Republicans to take steps to block the implementation of nuclear cuts under New START."START implementation and nuclear modernization are intrinsically linked. The president made them linked," Turner said in an interview. "Without modernization, the reductions should not occur," he said.
"This is about making the president live up to his word," Turner said. "He made commitments and promises. He himself said that the modernization program was essential in order to safely reduce to the levels that were being agreed to under New START." Cosponsors of the bill include Republican congressmen John Fleming of Louisiana; Doug Lamborn of Colorado; Trent Franks of Arizona; J. Randy Forbes of Virginia; Denny Rehberg of Montana; and Jeff Miller of Florida. The bill is called "Maintaining the President's Commitment to Our Nuclear Deterrent and National Security Act of 2012." . (Washington Free Beacon) Read more.
- Once again, Obama is defying and ignoring Congress, going his own way. If a man's word cannot be trusted, where do we turn?
Call your own member of Congress and ask him or her to support this important piece of legislation. Obama must be held to his word on this very critical issue; the lives of millions could be at stake!
- "Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right." (Proverbs 20:11)
2. SENATE DEMOCRATS DEFEAT PIPELINE AND JOBS
Yesterday Senate Democrats, at the urging of Hussein Obama, voted to kill the Keystone XL pipeline. Knowing how popular the pipeline is, Harry Reid had to raise the bar for passage to 60 votes in order to defeat it. And he succeeded -- the vote was 56 to 42.
This vote is a gift to the GOP. In spite of the media's efforts to portray Obama as a moderate and cast Republicans as obstructionists, yesterday's vote demonstrated the exact opposite. Eleven Democrats defied Obama and joined all Republicans in voting for the pipeline. This project had strong bi-partisan support, but Obama stood in the way.
It should have been the easiest thing in the world for Obama to embrace the pipeline, as Bill Clinton has suggested he do. Obama's former National Security Advisor has said the pipeline is essential. With Ahmadinejad causing trouble in the Middle East, more oil from Canada is a slam dunk. With gas prices rising and millions out of work, more oil and the jobs the pipeline would have created should have been a no brainer.
But yesterday's vote is more evidence of just how captive Obama and Senate Democrats are to the left's extreme environmental ideology. Remind your friends and family members about this vote the next time they complain after filling up their tanks! (Gary Bauer; March 9, 2012)
- Father we pray that somehow, some way, You will get through to the leadership of America that dependence on foreign oil at this point in history is foolish from the jobs perspective, and a clear and present danger to our nation.
- "For she did not know that I gave her corn, and wine, and oil, and multiplied her silver and gold, which they prepared for Baal. Therefore I will return and take away My corn in the time thereof, and My wine in the season thereof . . ." [Hosea 2:8,9a]
3. JOBLESS STATS REVEAL DISPARITIES AS ECONOMY STARTS TO RECOVER
Congressman Duncan Hunter to Introduce Legislation Correcting the Record
While the Labor Department reports a surge in private-sector hiring and the nation's unemployment rate holding steady at 8.3 percent, a closer look at the numbers paints a less flattering picture of the country's post-recession growth.
The latest report for February shows lingering economic disparities among different segments of the population. And, as has been the case for decades, the unemployment rate used by the Bureau of Labor Statistics does not tell the whole story. Counting only those Americans who are actively looking for work, the jobless rate is 8.3 percent, just like it was in January. But counting those who stopped looking for work within the last year, the rate is 9.8 percent. And counting all of the above, plus those who settled for part-time jobs, the rate is 14.9 percent.
"Everybody who has friends knows it's higher," Rep. Duncan Hunter, R-Calif., told Fox News. Hunter is pushing legislation that would require the Bureau of Labor Statistics to broaden its definition for the unemployment rate. He wants the department to count those who stopped looking for work as well, which would put last month's rate at 9.8 percent.
"We just want to know what the truth is, because we can't make good policy here unless we know what the actual unemployment number is," Hunter told Fox News on Thursday, ahead of the latest labor report release. "It's not 8 percent -- anybody who's out there in the real world knows that. We need real numbers, not D.C. numbers." (Fox News) Read more.
- Pray that this legislation will pass both the House and the Senate, and is eventually signed into law, so that Congress can do the job it has been called to do.
- "A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight." (Proverbs 11:1)
4. TEA PARTY SENATORS UNVEIL FIVE-YEAR PLAN TO BALANCE THE BUDGET
Members of the Senate Tea Party Caucus on Thursday announced a plan to balance the budget in five years, cutting spending by nearly $11 trillion compared to President Obama's budget. The plan, dubbed "A Platform to Revitalize America," is a wish list of conservative policies, none of which have any chance of passing the Democratic-controlled Senate or being signed into law by a liberal Democratic president. The ambitious blueprint would achieve a $111 billion surplus in fiscal year 2017.
"The whole point here is to show we can reasonably balance the budget within a five-year period," said Sen. Jim DeMint (R-S.C.), one of the sponsors of the plan. "This idea that we have to look 30 years out to balance the budget is not only unnecessary, but it's improbable. We cannot continue to spend at our current rate for 10 more years, much less 20 or 30 more years. "This is an urgent matter."
Sens. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) and Mike Lee (R-Utah) also back the proposal, which would overhaul Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security. (The Hill) Read more.
- Father, we ask for a miracle concerning this budget plan. Move upon the lawmakers to approve this plan. May they set politics aside, and do what is best for the people. We ask your favor upon this budget. In Jesus name.
- "Therefore, since we do hold and engage in this ministry by the mercy of God (granting us favor, benefits, opportunities, and especially salvation), we do not get discouraged (spiritless and despondent with fear) or become faint with weariness and exhaustion." (2 Corinthians 4:1; AMP)
5. PENTAGON TRIES TO SELL SKEPTICAL CONGRESS ON NEW ROUNDS OF BASE CLOSURES
Facing a hostile crowd in Congress, Pentagon officials Thursday tried to make the case that lawmakers need to accept more base closures as important medicine to cure Defense budget problems.
Dorothy Robyn, deputy under secretary of Defense for installations and environment, appearing at a subcommittee hearing on the defense budget . . . Robyn said more base closures are needed because a reduction of 100,000 troops over the next five years means that less infrastructure is necessary. Robyn said the Defense Department already has about 20 percent excess infrastructure with the current force structure. "That, in a nutshell, is why we are asking for additional BRAC (base reduction) rounds," Robyn said. "The math is straightforward."
House members did not sound convinced.
Rep. Randy Forbes (R-Va.), chairman of the House Armed Services Readiness subcommittee, said he was "vigorously opposed" because he was also opposed to the Pentagon's reduction in troop levels. Rep. Joe Courtney (D-Conn.) said that the upfront costs associated with BRAC make no sense - even if it will eventually see savings - because the Pentagon must reduce its budget now under the Budget Control Act. Courtney also complained that it was unfair of the Pentagon to ask for new BRAC rounds when the department hasn't "given us a scrap of information in terms of savings." (The Hill) Read more.
- Father, we pray over these base closures. Give our leaders wisdom regarding this situation. It seems with Iran's nuclear ambitions - and Israel's safety concerns - this would not be the right time to be trimming away our military. Guide the Pentagon officials to do what is right for the safety of our country. In Jesus name, amen.
- "In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; reverently fear and worship the Lord and turn away from evil." (Proverbs 3:6,7 AMP)
6. H.R. 2299: CHILD INTERSTATE ABORTION NOTIFICATION ACT (CIANA)
No school would dream of taking your kids on a field trip without asking permission. So it seems a little ridiculous that there are people in America who think it's okay to take young girls to another state for an abortion without calling home! Yesterday, Rep. Trent Franks (R-Ariz.) tried to put a stop to this outrage by holding a hearing on the Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act (CIANA). Under this law, it would be a federal crime to take a girl across state lines to bypass the parental involvement laws in her home state.
If the legislation sounds familiar, it's because the House passed it twice in 2005 and 2006. This time around, 151 members of Congress have co-sponsored the bill (H.R. 2299), and leaders expect even more. In America, most children can't get their ears pierced or visit a tanning booth without a mom or dad's consent. What parent would say that's more dangerous than undergoing major surgery? Help Rep. Franks and others protect these girls--and your rights as parents--by calling your representatives and asking them to support H.R. 2299! (Family Research Council)
- God, we ask for Your divine favor regarding the passage of this Bill, which if passed, will save many people from having much heartache. You are the holy God who saves life and protects the unborn from being murdered. Our God not only sees the baby about to be aborted but looks into the future at the life they would have lived. Father God, we ask that You walk this Bill through to victory with no restraints from its passage. In the Name of Jesus, amen.
- "Therefore shall you observe all God's statutes, and all His judgments, and do them; I AM the Lord." (Leviticus 19:37)
On Capitol Hill This Week Volume XIX, Number 7b
INTERNATIONAL ISSUES
1. SOME 100 ROCKETS HIT ISRAEL SINCE FRIDAY
2. NETANYAHU AT AIPAC: A NUCLEAR IRAN MUST BE STOPPED
3. ISRAEL ALERTS TURKEY OF TERROR THREAT AGAINST DIPLOMATS
4. ISRAEL FACES ENEMIES ON ALL FRONTS
5. TALKS CONCLUDE BETWEEN P.M. NETANYAHU AND OBAMA
1. SOME 100 ROCKETS HIT ISRAEL SINCE FRIDAY
Iron Dome intercepts 27 out of 30 rockets fired at Beersheba, Ashdod, Ashkelon; IAF kills 15 Islamic Jihad operatives in Gaza strikes. Gantz: IDF to respond with determination to any attack
Palestinians from northern Gaza fired rockets at Beersheba, Ashdod and Gan Yavne early Saturday morning as the Color Red alert was sounded across Israel's southern cities. The IDF estimates that some 100 rockets have been fired at Israel since Friday. Meanwhile, a new Israeli air strike in Gaza killed two Palestinians riding on a motorcyle, Hamas officials and medics said on Saturday. The attack followed the firing of rockets at Israel at the weekend, raises the death toll in escalating violence since Friday to 15.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke over the phone with Ashkelon Mayor Benny Vaknin following the escalation in the south. Netanyahu expressed support and interest in the well-being of Ashkelon residents suffering from the ongoing rocket attacks on the city.
IDF Chief of Staff Benny Gantz held a special situation assessment on Saturday given the recent rocket attacks in the south. Officials decided that the IDF will respond with determination to any attack on Israel. The officials also praised the Iron Dome system which successfully managed to intercept rockets fired at southern communities.
- Father, may violence, devastation, and destruction cease within these borders. We pray supernatural protection. In Jesus name.
"Violence shall no more be heard in your land, nor devastation or destruction within your borders, but you shall call your walls Salvation and your gates Praise." (Isaiah 60:18)
2. NETANYAHU AT AIPAC: A NUCLEAR IRAN MUST BE STOPPED
Washington - Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee) conference in Washington Tuesday (March 6), following a meeting with Hussein Obama.
"Jerusalem is the eternal united capital of Israel," he began his speech to roaring applause. "Israel must always reserve the right to defend itself."
"I want to ask the supporters of Israel here to stand up and applaud the Congress for standing up and supporting Israel. Democrats and Republicans alike, I salute your commitment to the State of Israel," he said.
Netanyahu was quick to focus on the nuclear threat posed by Iran: "Every day, I open a newspaper and read about deadlines and red lines, about what Israel might do and will do - but I won't talk about that. I will never talk about that. As the prime minister of Israel, I will not gamble with its security."
"I want to explain about the dangers of Iran, and why Iran should never be allowed to develop nuclear weapons," Netanyahu continued.
"President Obama stated clearly that the US wants to prevent Iran from having nuclear weapons and that all options are on the table. Israel has the same policy - we're determined to prevent Iran from having nuclear weapons and we leave all options on the table."
"Iran says that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, but I say - if it looks like a duck, and walks like a duck, and quacks like a duck - it's a duck. But this is a nuclear duck! And it is impossible to believe that the world's most dangerous regime won't use the world most dangerous weapon."
"A nuclear-armed Iran," he warned, "will embolden its proxies, like Hezbollah, to attack Israel and US targets. And they will. They'll be doing so backed by a nuclear regime. A nuclear-armed Iran could choke the world's oil supplies. It could blackmail the world on oil."
A nuclear-armed Iran is likely to spark an arms race in the Middle East, he continued, "And the worst nightmare - a nuclear-armed Iran could threaten all of us with nuclear terrorism."
"The Jewish state will not allow those who seek our annihilation to develop such weapons. A nuclear Iran must be stopped," Netanyahu stated. "When it comes to Israel's survival we must always remain masters of our fate." During his meeting with the American president earlier Monday, Netanyahu reportedly stressed that Israel has yet to reach a decision regarding a possible strike on Iran's nuclear facilities. Speaking with reporters after the meeting, Netanyahu said that "the Israeli position was met with understanding." (YnetNews) [Reported by Bridges for Peace]
- Pray for excellent communication between the leaders of Israel and leaders of the countries of the world. Pray for wisdom for the leaders of the world.
- "For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding; He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk uprightly." (Proverbs 2:6-7)
3. REPORT: ISRAEL ALERTS TURKEY OF TERROR THREAT AGAINST DIPLOMATS
Clear and present danger? The Turkish Daily Hurriyet reported Thursday [March 8] that Israel has warned Turkey of an imminent threat of terror against Israeli diplomats stationed on its soil.
The report quoted Ankara's NTV channel as saying that the Mossad warned its Turkish counterpart, the National Intelligence Agency (MIT), that "Iran's Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force is preparing bomb attacks against Israeli targets in Turkey."
The Turkish TV channels said that four individuals had already "entered Turkey from Iran," with the necessary weapons and materials - possibly explosives - to carry out the alleged attacks. Hurriyet's MIT sources neither confirmed nor denied the report. The Quds Force serves as the Revolutionary Guards international operations arm.
Israel believes its operatives were involved in the attacks on the Israeli missions in India and Georgia in February, as well as the terror attack in Thailand. (YnetNews) [Reported by Bridges for Peace]
- Pray that Turkey will heed the warnings from Israel and that they will be alert to any suspicious activity. Pray for the safety of Israelis living across the globe.
- "'At the same time," says the LORD, 'I will be the God of all the families of Israel, and they shall be My people.' Thus says the LORD: 'The people who survived the sword found grace in the wilderness - Israel, when I went to give him rest.'" (Jeremiah 31:1-2)
4. ISRAEL FACES ENEMIES ON ALL FRONTS
(The following is from Intercessors for Israel)
We prayed that Israel might not be caught off guard by a threat from a different front eg from Syria, Egypt, Palestinians, etc. The threat from Syria becomes ever more imminent. They have one of the world's largest stockpiles of chemical and biological weapons and President Assad has said that if he is about to be overthrown he would attack Israel.
- You, Lord, are the keeper of Israel. Please keep guard and watch! The threats from every side are all too much for us. But they are not too much for You! Stop the plans of our enemies!
- Give alertness and vigilance to our leaders and security forces on every side and give wisdom to know how to deploy our resources!
5. TALKS CONCLUDE BETWEEN P.M. NETANYAHU AND OBAMA
(The following is from Intercessors for Israel)
Out of this week's talks between Benjamin Netanyahu and President Obama in the USA came declared resolution from Netanyahu that he needs to prepare his own people for every possible eventuality while Obama appealed to Israel not to talk about war against Iran. We prayed:
- for Netanyahu and the nation of Israel to "be strong and of good courage" (Joshua 1:6)
- for the people of Israel to be prepared for the dangers we are facing
- "And the governors of Judah shall say in their heart, The inhabitants of Jerusalem are my strength in the Lord of hosts, their God." (Zechariah 12:5)
- "In that day the Lord will defend the inhabitants of Jerusalem; the one who is feeble among them in that day shall be like David, and the house of David shall be like God, like the Angel of the Lord before them." (Zechariah 12:80)
More International News
1. IRAN: WE'LL NEVER SUSPEND NUKE ACTIVITIES
2. PA TV ACCUSES ISRAEL OF FIGHTING PALESTINIANS IN GOD'S NAME
3. PA WANTS DEADLINE FOR ISRAELI ACCEPTANCE OF "GROUND RULES"
4. HAMAS WON'T AID IRAN IF WAR BREAKS OUT
5. OBAMA TELLS PALESTINE TO "SIT TIGHT"
6. IRANIAN AYATOLLAH KHAMENEI PRAISES PRESIDENT OBAMA
7. OBAMA: SHOOTING OF AFGHAN CIVILIANS "TRAGIC AND SHOCKING"
1. IRAN: WE'LL NEVER SUSPEND NUKE ACTIVITIES
Iran's ambassador to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) stressed Thursday [March 8] that his country "is ready to re-engage with IAEA," amid growing pressure from world powers over its nuclear program, CNN reported.
"A new chapter (has) opened," Ali Asghar Soltanieh declared at an IAEA meeting in Vienna. Nevertheless, the Iranian official stressed that the Islamic Republic "will never ever suspend our nuclear activities," insisting that the program is exclusively for peaceful purposes. "The truth is, Iran is not developing a nuclear weapon."
Soltanieh added that international sanctions and cyber attacks against Iran will not prevent it from developing nuclear energy, and that sanctions were only working to hurt its citizens.
Addressing reports of a possible Israeli attack on Iran noted, he said that such threats are against international law, and called on the United Nations to condemn and take action against Israel. "We are facing a barbaric phenomenon," Soltanieh said, referring to the killing of Iranian nuclear scientists. In an interview with CNN, IAEA chief Yukiya Amano said that Iran is not open about its nuclear program, but should be. "Iran is not telling us everything. That is my impression. We are asking Iran to engage with us proactively, and Iran has a case to answer," Amano said. (Ynet News) [Reported by Bridges for Peace]
- Pray that all hidden things will be revealed in Iran. Pray for those overseeing the IAEA to have the knowledge they need to make informed decisions.
- "The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but he who heeds counsel is wise. There is one who speaks like the piercings of a sword, but the tongue of the wise promotes health. Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, but counselors of peace have joy." (Proverbs 12:15, 18, 20)
2. PA TV ACCUSES ISRAEL OF FIGHTING PALESTINIANS IN GOD'S NAME
One principle of Palestinian Authority religious belief is that the Palestinians' fight against Israel is for Allah and for Islam. Accordingly, the PA presents the conflict with Israel as a fight on behalf of all Muslims to liberate what they claim is Islamic holy land.
Now PA TV has broadcast a song accusing Israel of being the one fighting a religious war "in your name, oh God." The song demonizes Israel as an oppressor that "tortured" Palestinians and "usurped" Palestinian land, all in the name of religion.
While Israel does not portray the conflict as a religious war, the PA emphatically defines it as such. In January, Palestinian Media Watch exposed a speech by the PA Mufti in which he presented the killing of Jews by Muslims as a religious Islamic destiny.
PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas has said that taking Jerusalem away from Israel on behalf of Islam is a fard ayn, a personal religious obligation on every Muslim. (Palestinian Media Watch, March 4, 2012) [Reported by Bridges for Peace]
- Pray that God works in the lives of the Palestinians and that they come to know the God of Israel.
- "You shall have the same law for the stranger and for one from your own country; for I am the LORD your God." (Leviticus 24:22)
3. P.A. WANTS DEADLINE FOR ISRAELI ACCEPTANCE OF "GROUND RULES"
Palestinian Foreign Minister Riad Al-Malki said on Saturday [March3] that the Palestinian Authority will demand that Israel accept a timetable for milestones in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process. Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu has said he is prepared to re-start talks immediately, but Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas rejected the offer, arguing that a sufficient basis for negotiations is lacking.
The Palestinians have steadfastly refused to resume negotiations until Israel accepts pre-1967 borders and an absolute freeze on construction in Jewish communities located on land Israel acquired in the 1967 war. Israel rejects those terms as "pre-conditions."
During the past two months, two meetings have been held in Amman under the patronage of Jordanian King Abdallah II and under the auspices of the Quartet - the international entity sponsoring peace talks made up of the US, UN, EU and Russia - but no tangible results followed.
Al-Malki said Abbas will make public the contents of a letter spelling out its position and alleging Israeli violations of previous agreements that will be sent to Netanyahu in coming days. Israel's government has warned it will reject what it perceives to be attempts to enforce pre-conditions to negotiations. (By The Media Line, March 5, 2012) [Reported by Bridges for Peace]
- Pray for the peace of Israel. Pray for an understanding between Israel and the Palestinians.
- "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: 'May they prosper who love you. Peace be within your walls, prosperity within your palaces.' For the sake of my brethren and companions, I will now say, 'Peace be within you." (Psalm 122:6-8)
4. HAMAS WON'T AID IRAN IF WAR BREAKS OUT
Senior Politburo member in Gaza Strip Salah Bardawil said that Hamas "will not do Iran's bidding in any war with Israel, and will not launch rockets at Israel at Tehran's request. If there is a war between two powers, Hamas will not be part of such a war." Bardawil was quoted as saying, "Hamas is not part of military alliances in the region. Our strategy is to defend our rights."
Analysts said that this somewhat surprising stance illustrates the rift between Hamas and Iran - its key financial patron; as well as Gaza-rulers realignment with Egypt's new ruling party, the Muslim Brotherhood.
A second, anonymous Hamas source, told the British newspaper that the group "will not get involved in any war between Iran and Israel." Defense analysts speculate that in the event of a war between Jerusalem and Tehran, the latter will task its proxies in the region - Hamas and Hezbollah - with firing rockets at Israel.
However, Bardawil insisted that "Hamas has never given complete loyalty to Tehran. "Bardawil also spoke about the situation in Syria. Hamas has diminished its presence in Damascus over the escalating violence in the country, with Hamas Politburo Chief Khaled Mashaal relocating to Qatart. According to Bardawil, Hamas' office in Damascus "is still open and functioning, but it is empty. We still haven't found another country to move our office to." Politburo members are now scattered between Jordan, Qatar and Egypt. (YnetNews) [Reported by Bridges for Peace]
- Pray for God's continued protection for the people of Israel. Pray that God's glory will prevail.
- "Be exalted, O God, above the heavens, and Your glory above all the earth." (Psalm 108:5)
5. HUSSEIN OBAMA TELLS PALESTINE TO "SIT TIGHT"
Help Is On Its Way AFTER 2012 Election
Palestinian Foreign Minister Riad Malki publicly indicates he was promised help from Obama administration after the 2012 election. His statements come just days after Barack Obama met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Talking out of both sides of his mouth has become a fixture of the Obama presidency - and it appears the increasingly volatile Middle East situation is no exception. In fact, it is quite likely the often conflicted message coming out of the Obama White House is to blame for much of the region's worsening condition. If an American president consistently places ideological politics ahead of international principle, the world is likely to suffer - it becomes a matter of just how much suffering.
And no better example of the Obama administration's "politics before everything" operation can be seen than this most recent indication from the Palestinian government that they have been promised "vigorous U.S. mediation" in Palestine's efforts to extract more concessions from Israel as well as statehood recognition from the United Nations.
According to an AP REPORT published today, the relationship between the Obama administration and Palestine is quite cozy:
"Everybody was telling us, including the Americans, 'don't expect that much from us during the election year because the president will be focusing on how to be re-elected, and in order to do so, he should really shift his attention . . . to other issues,'" Malki said. He did not say how those messages were delivered. Obama administration officials are frequent visitors at Abbas' headquarters. (The Ulsterman Report) Read more.
- Abba Father, we fall before You to profoundly repent and beg for mercy on behalf of our nation due to the constant betrayal from our federal governmental leaders of Your people and special chosen land Israel. We are all being betrayed. We know as a people we need Your mercy, Lord, as we have so sinned as a nation and fallen away from Your Biblical ways. Have mercy on us, Lord, in Jesus' name, Amen and Amen!
- "Let God arise, Let His enemies be scattered. Let those also who hate Him flee before Him. As smoke is driven away, so drive them away. As wax melts before the fire, so let the wicked perish at the presence of God. But let the righteous be glad; let them rejoice before God; Yes, let them rejoice exceedingly. Sing to God, sing praises to His name; Extol Him who rides on the clouds; By His name YAH, and rejoice before Him." (Psalm 68:1-4)
6. IRANIAN AYATOLLAH KHAMENEI PRAISES HUSSEIN OBAMA
(The following is from Intercessors for Israel)
Ayatollah Khamenei praised Hussein Obama this week for his statement that he is not thinking about war with Iran. This praise from the supreme leader of Iran must be a sign to Israel if not to the United States that we can't let up with our prayers and our preparations for the war which may come. We continued to pray for God to act sovereignly to hold back this threat:
- Cause earthquakes to swallow up Iran's nuclear facilities. You know where all these places are, God. Open up the earth so the people of Iran would know You are God. By the work of Your Spirit undermine the power of Islam from within.
- Cause more mistakes and accidents in these places created for destruction!
- Sow division among our enemies! Especially within the Iranian leadership
- Bring to nothing the intent to "wipe Israel off the map"!
- Take up arms on behalf of your people and bring down this evil regime!
- "The Lord brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; He makes the plans of the peoples of no effect. The counsel of the Lord stands forever, the plans of His heart to all generations." (Psalm 33:10-11)
7. HUSSEIN OBAMA: SHOOTING OF AFGHAN CIVILIANS "TRAGIC AND SHOCKING"
U.S. officials worked quickly to calm tensions after an American service member opened fire on Afghan civilians Sunday, killing at least sixteen.
Obama said he was "deeply saddened" by news of the attack, in a statement released by the White House. "I offer my condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, and to the people of Afghanistan, who have endured too much violence and suffering," he added.
The incident comes at a critical time for U.S., Afghan relations. Last month, the accidental burnings of Qurans by American troops at an airbase sparked a week of violent protests, killing six Americans and over 30 Afghans. Obama said the shooting was "tragic and shocking, and does not represent the exceptional character of our military and the respect that the United States has for the people of Afghanistan." (The Hill)
- Join together in prayer this morning, asking our Lord to intervene in this horrific matter. May He calm these troubled waters; bring peace in this storm; and may He bring answers to this tragedy . . . in His time.
- "This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us-whatever we ask-we know that we have what we asked of him." (I John 5:14,15)
Remembering Japan
1. FUKUSHIMA: ONE YEAR LATER
2. JAPAN SAYS THANK YOU
3. FEDS APPROVE POST-FUKUSHIMA POWER RULES
4. JAPANESE TSUNAMI TRASH THREATENS HAWAII, U.S. WEST COAST
1. FUKUSHIMA: ONE YEAR LATER
Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant surrounded by desolate no-man's-land year after disaster
Nothing prepares you for entering Japan's 12-mile exclusion zone around the crippled nuclear power plant at Fukushima. Everybody still has to wear radiation suits and face masks when entering, but within the area it is as if time has stood still. In other areas along the coastline, a lot of the debris from the tsunamis that hit the shore a year ago, taking over 15,000 lives, has been removed and many homes have been rebuilt. But in the exclusion zone nearly everything has been left untouched.
Village after village we traveled through is silent. There are, of course, no people, but there also are no domestic animals, like cats or dogs or farm animals. The only life you can see are birds. . . (Fox News) Read more.
- Dear Abba Father, we come before You to lift up in prayer the desolation that lingers not just physically but also emotionally and spiritually in this Fukushima area. They are left with stark reminders of this terror evoking event, since no cleanup has occurred and not all the deaths have been found, for closure for the families. The drifting tons of items swept away are moving with the currents toward Hawaii and towards the west coast of the US, as stark reminders of this event; bringing not only pollution and debris, but also overwhelming challenges to health and property. We speak Your comfort, strength and encouragement, Lord, into these peoples' lives, in Jesus' name, Amen and Amen.
- "The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. And those who know Your name will put their trust in You; For You, Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you." (Psalm 9:9-10)
2. JAPAN SAYS THANK YOU
One Year After: Japan Says `Thank You` to the World!
Dear Friends, It was a year ago that our beloved Japan was devastated by an Earthquake, Tsunami and Radiation in an unprecedented disaster. In the middle of our most difficult time, the world responded and thousands came to help us and deliver tons of supplies that sustain us still.
We will never forget!
As the Commissioner of the Japan Tourism Agency, and as part of our `thank you` campaign I want to say a big `thank you` to the all who came and helped us, those who prayed for us and cared so much at our time of need.
Although we still have a long way to go, `Japan is back`.
Please come and visit us as together we rebuild. You will find a grateful people who are waiting for your kind return!
Sincerely,
Hiroshi Mizohata, Commissioner
Japan Tourism Agency
- O Lord God, May the Japanese people remember that many who came to help them were Your people! In remembering this, may they repent for their national leadership who spoke so strongly against Israel and its people. We ask that Your Holy Spirit continue to hover over them, convicting and drawing them to You so that they truly will be free, in Jesus' name, Amen and Amen.
- "The Lord looks from heaven; He sees all the sons of men. From the place of His dwelling, He looks on all the inhabitants of the earth. He fashions their hearts individually; He considers all their works." (Psalm 33:13-15)
- "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy." (Matthew 5:7)
3. FEDS APPROVE POST-FUKUSHIMA POWER RULES
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission on Friday authorized staff to issue beefed-up safety requirements for U.S. nuclear power plants, the first new rules issued in response to the disaster at Japan's Fukushima Daiichi power plant.
NRC Chairman Gregory Jaczko praised the decision to issue three post-Fukushima orders, but warned that the commission most continue working to implement the entirety of the safety reforms put forward by a federal task force last year. The orders represent the "highest-priority" recommendations of the task force, according to the commission.
The orders require that operators better protect safety equipment and install new technology to monitor water levels of spent-fuel pools located at plants. A separate order requires that certain reactors improve venting systems "that help prevent or mitigate core damage in the event of a serious accident," according to the commission.
Jaczko and the other NRC commissioners stressed that U.S. plants are safe. They said the new rules are necessary to prevent a disaster in a worst-case scenario. (The Hill) Read more.
- Pray that these new regulations will take the maximum effect possible. In the end, however, our real reliance is upon God: the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Amen.
- "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." (Isaiah 41:10)
4. JAPANESE TSUNAMI TRASH THREATENS HAWAII, U.S. WEST COAST
This report is on a video, posted by Fox News.
To view this video report on the tsunami debris now heading to our nation, go here.
- Ask our Lord to place His merciful Hand of protection over all areas in our nation that are now threatened by this flood of potentially radioactive tsunami debris. Our God is a God of miracles; and we do need a miracle now.
- "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)
This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
ALMIGHTY
(Shadi)
"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty." (Psalm 91:1)
How I praise You, El-Shadi, Almighty, maker of heaven and earth! There is peace in my soul when I come into Your secret place. There is no other place that I would rather be than under Your shadow. Thank You for Your ever-present protection over my life, El-Shadi, Mighty God of Israel. Amen.
(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)
"Partners in Prayer for the Nation"
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net
On Capitol Hill This Week Volume XIX, Number 7a
March 12 - 16, 2012
"The LORD will be king over the whole earth. On that day there will be one LORD, and his name the only name." (Zechariah 14:9)
DOMESTIC ISSUES
Obama and the Constitution
1. PANETTA CITES "INTERNATIONAL PERMISSION" FOR MILITARY ACTION
2. H. CON. RES. 107: (IN RESPONSE TO PANETTA'S TESTIMONY)
3. OBAMA ADMIN MUST FOLLOW THE LAW: NO TAX MONEY FOR UNESCO
4. ARIZONA SHERIFF INVESTIGATES OBAMA'S ELIGIBILITY TO RUN FOR OFFICE
5. ARPAIO INVESTIGATION: OBAMA MIGHT BE KENYAN
6. DID THREATS SILENCE MEDIA ON OBAMA PROBE?
1. PANETTA CITES "INTERNATIONAL PERMISSION" FOR MILITARY ACTION
Panetta ignores Act of Congress to go to war
During a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing yesterday, Panetta and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. Martin Dempsey brazenly admitted that their authority comes not from the U.S. Constitution, but that the United States is subservient to and takes its marching orders from the United Nations and NATO, international bodies over which the American people have no democratic influence.
Panetta was asked by Senator Jeff Sessions, "We spend our time worrying about the U.N., the Arab League, NATO and too little time, in my opinion, worrying about the elected representatives of the United States. As you go forward, will you consult with the United States Congress?"
The Defense Secretary responded "You know, our goal would be to seek international permission. And we would come to the Congress and inform you and determine how best to approach this, whether or not we would want to get permission from the Congress."
Despite Sessions' repeated efforts to get Panetta to acknowledge that the United States Congress is supreme to the likes of NATO and the UN, Panetta exalted the power of international bodies over the US legislative branch.
"I'm really baffled by the idea that somehow an international assembly provides a legal basis for the United States military to be deployed in combat," Sessions said. "I don't believe it's close to being correct. They provide no legal authority. The only legal authority that's required to deploy the United States military is of the Congress and the president and the law and the Constitution." (Conservative Action Alerts) The video of the Senate Armed Services Committee can be seen here.
- Father. in heaven, let not man move the clock of time according to their dictates, but hold America and these present hurdles under the mighty hand of God's prophetic timetable. The end is not yet come, and America will yet be under the covering of the solid and righteous Constitution of the United States. America is and has always been guided by the hand of Almighty God and will forever be. No foreign power will be allowed by God to come in and take over. We, as a nation, stand in the strength, liberty and freedom of the Constitution that God established for our country and woe be unto those who take that fatal step that is the one that brings holy judgment upon them. God, send the warring angels from heaven in battle array to fight this battle for our sovereign country. In the Name of Jesus Christ, amen.
- "The righteous shall rejoice when he sees the vengeance of God: he shall wash his feet in the blood of the wicked. So that a man shall say, Verily there is a reward for the righteous: verily He is a God that judges in the earth." (Psalm 58:10-11)
2. H. CON. RES. 107: GROUNDS FOR IMPEACHMENT
Defense Secretary Leon Panetta's testimony asserting that the United Nations and NATO have supreme authority over the actions of the United States military, instead of the U.S.
Congress under the War Powers Act, has prompted Congressman Walter Jones to introduce a resolution that re-affirms such behavior as an "impeachable high crime and misdemeanor" under the Constitution.
Yesterday Rep. Walter Jones, Republican of North Carolina, introduced H. Concurrent Resolution 107, which calls on the House, the Senate Concurring, to do the following:
"IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
March 7, 2012
Mr. JONES submitted the following concurrent resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary
CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
Expressing the sense of Congress that the use of offensive military force by a President without prior and clear authorization of an Act of Congress constitutes an impeachable high crime and misdemeanor under article II, section 4 of the Constitution.
Whereas the cornerstone of the Republic is honoring Congress's exclusive power to declare war under article I, section 8, clause 11 of the Constitution: Now, therefore, be it Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That it is the sense of Congress that, except in response to an actual or imminent attack against the territory of the United States, the use of offensive military force by a President without prior and clear authorization of an Act of Congress violates Congress's exclusive power to declare war under article I, section 8, clause 11 of the Constitution and therefore constitutes an impeachable high crime and misdemeanor under article II, section 4 of the Constitution." (Conservative Action Alerts)
- Father, we ask that the God of heaven will stand behind this Concurrent Resolution, and that if found guilty, the law and the honor of the Constitution of the United States will be upheld and be effective to produce a decided action under Article II, Section 4 of the Constitution. Send Your angel to stand beside Rep. Walter Jones and strengthen him by Your power. In the Name of Jesus.
- "Talk no more so very proudly; Let no arrogance come from your mouth. For the LORD is the God of knowledge; and by Him actions are weighed." (1 Samuel 2:3) "Rejoice, O you nations, with God's people: for He will avenge the blood of his servants, and will render vengeance to his adversaries, and will be merciful unto His land, and to His people." (Deuteronomy 32:43)
3. OBAMA ADMIN. MUST FOLLOW THE LAW: NO TAX MONEY FOR UNESCO
Today, Jay Sekulow, ACLJ Chief Counsel, sent a letter to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton outlining the illegality of President Obama's request for renewed U.S. funding for a United Nations (UN) organization which had unilaterally recognized the terrorist-led Palestinian Authority has a nation. U.S. federal law prohibits taxpayer funds from going to any UN agency which unilaterally recognizes Palestine as a state in contravention to international law and recognized Middle East peace negotiations.
Last October, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) voted to admit "Palestine" as a full member, essentially recognizing Palestinian statehood. The U.S. immediately cut off funding for UNESCO. However, President Obama's budget proposal submitted last month requested $79 million dollars in taxpayer funding for UNESCO.
The ACLJ's letter notes that two laws enacted in the 1990s and signed by Presidents Bush and Clinton prohibit U.S. taxpayer funding for any UN agency that unilaterally grants Palestine the same standing as member states. The letter states: " . . . any plan to provide funds to UNESCO is in violation of existing U.S. law. In light of the foregoing, the President's request to appropriate funds from the U.S. Treasury for UNESCO is in violation of current U.S. law and must be rejected. (ACLJ) Read more.
You can read the entire letter here.
- Offer praise that Jay Sekulow and the ACLJ have taken the lead on confronting this illegal action by the President of the United States. Once again, this administration must be called to account for its defiance of our law under the Constitution. We urge you to support ACLJ in this effort with prayer and with action, to see that our tax monies are not used to fund UNESCO. Thank you.
- "Come out from among them, and be separate, says the Lord. do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you. I will be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty." (2 Corinthians 6;17,18)
4. ARIZONA SHERIFF INVESTIGATES OBAMA'S ELIGIBILITY TO RUN FOR OFFICE
Record number view his press conference online
How many different people watched the live-stream telecast of Sheriff Joe Arpaio's press conference last week about his investigation into questions surrounding Hussein Obama's constitutional eligibility for office? It turns out there were more people watching the live debut of WND TV than any previous news event live-streamed on the Net.
A total of 72,076 unique viewers watched the stream of the 90-minute press conference from Phoenix in which Arpaio charged Obama's birth certificate, released last spring and posted on the White House website, is "fraudulent" and a "forgery." That number, of course, does not include the hundreds of thousands who have since watched the recording of the video.
Meanwhile, Arpaio's investigation continues - now as the first bona fide law-enforcement investigation of Obama's eligibility with subpoena power. (WorldNetDaily) Read more.
You can view Sheriff Arpaio's press conference by going here.
- Offer a chorus of praise for the diligent work of Sheriff Joe Arpaio in pursuing Obama's eligibility to run for President under the Constitution. Pray that other states will follow his lead and that, in the end, only those who have been legally vetted to serve this office will have their names on the ballot in November.
- "A thousand will flee at the threat of one; at the threat of five you will all flee away, till you are left like a flagstaff on a mountaintop, like a banner on a hill." (Isaiah 30:17)
5. ARPAIO INVESTIGATION: HUSSEIN OBAMA MIGHT BE KENYAN
Among the records missing for Barack Obama that would be available for an ordinary president are passport records, school records such as those from Punahou, Occidental, Columbia and Harvard, Harvard Law Review writings, scholarly articles for the University of Chicago, state bar association records from Illinois, Illinois state senate records, the marriage and divorce documents for his mother, his adoption records and others. Now it has been revealed that the Cold Case Posse assembled by Sheriff Joe Arpaio in Maricopa County, Ariz., cannot confirm yet that Obama was not born in Kenya and brought to the United States as a days-old infant for his birth to be registered in Hawaii. The reason? Missing records. (WorldNetDaily) Read more.
- Lord, wherever there is smoke, there is fire. This issue will not die until all documents have been produced and verified. We pray that You will bring truth to light in a way that the citizens and regular media can understand.
- "The lip of truth shall be established forever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment." [Proverbs 12:19]
6. DID THREATS SILENCE MEDIA ON OBAMA PROBE?
The lead investigator in Sheriff Joe Arpaio's review of the authenticity of Hussein Obama's birth certificate today unloaded a bombshell about the case: that he was told by sources members of the media were threatened with federal investigations should they continue to report on the birth certificate issue.
Lead investigator Mike Zullo told WND that as he was preparing information to be presented to the public "it was clear that the mainstream media was not going to be in attendance" at the sheriff's scheduled new conference, where he presented facts suggesting both fraud and forgery in the image of a Hawaiian birth certificate that the White House released last year's "proof positive" of Obama's eligibility for office.
"During our investigation, we actually were told [that media] had been threatened with FTC investigations. Commentators [had been] threatened with their jobs," Zullo said. The threats were so intimidating that some individuals quit their positions over safety concerns for their families, he said.
So the problem became to get the information to the American public in spite of an intentional media blackout, since citizens still must make critical leadership decisions about their government through the election process. The solution was an ebook with details from the investigation, the evidence that was accumulated, and the issues that remain for Arpaio and his investigators to pursue. (WorldNetDaily) Read more.
- This situation is now getting to be very serious. First, the president ignores Congress and puts our soldiers in harm's way on his own. Next, he directs his administration to spend taxpayer money for UNESCO, against known law. And now, it appears that his adminstration is trying to cover up an investigation about his eligibility to run for office by placing the media under a "gag order" in reporting the same. Enough is enough. Spread the word; get the facts out. Let the people choose wisely who should serve as our next president, if impeachment does not come first.
- "The wicked flee when no man pursues: but the righteous are bold as a lion." (Proverbs 28:1)
>>See also an article on WorldNetDaily on tihs topic, called "Pravda Asks: What Happened to American Media?" [Accuses U.S. press of 'deliberately hiding evidence' of Obama's 'fraud'] Go here.
Obamacare and the Conscience Clause
1. WHITE HOUSE ORGANIZES PRAYER VIGIL FOR OBAMACARE OUTSIDE SUPREME COURT
2. OBAMA, CENTRALIZED GOVERNMENT AND FAITH
3. CONGRESSMEN SUPPORT RELIGIOUS FREEDOM
4. OBAMACARE AND CONSCIENCE: ONE PRIEST SPEAKS OUT
5. OUTRAGE OVER "POST BIRTH ABORTION"
6. OBAMA'S PRIORITY: ABORTION V. ADOPTION
1. WHITE HOUSE ORGANIZES PRAYER VIGIL FOR OBAMACARE OUTSIDE SUPREME COURT
Hearings will begin on March 26
As the White House struggles to garner support for Obamacare as it approaches Supreme Court arguments on the new health care law, the administration is not leaving anything to chance - not even forces from heaven above. Yes, on Wednesday, White House officials reportedly called on dozens of nonprofit leaders to aid them in organizing a prayer vigil outside the court - right when justices plan to hear arguments for three days beginning March 26.
In a push that hopes to shape public opinion on the issue at the very center of the battle for the White House and Congress, advocates and officials set their strategy to win favor in motion. White House officials, however, deny they are trying to influence others or garner support by facilitating rallies outside the Supreme Court. "The White House was very encouraging and supportive of our activities," said Ronald F. Pollack, executive director of Families USA. Pollack said the theme of the Supreme Court events would be, "Protect our health care, protect the law." Jennifer M. Ng'andu from the National Council of La Raza said White House officials stressed that the court case provided "a great opportunity to highlight benefits of the law for real people."
A White House official who attended the session said that at least 100 people were present. According to the Times, more than 60 organizations sent representatives to the meeting.
EXCERPT FROM NEW YORK TIMES (embedded in this article)
At the White House meeting on Wednesday, a wide range of advocates representing consumers and people with diseases and disabilities - as well as doctors and nurses, labor unions and religious organizations - discussed plans to bolster the landmark law, which is being challenged by 26 states as unconstitutional.
Supporters of the law plan to hold events outside the court on each day of oral argument. The events include speeches by people with medical problems who have benefited or could benefit from the law. In addition, supporters will arrange for radio hosts to interview health care advocates at a "radio row," at the United Methodist Building on Capitol Hill.
People who attended the meeting on Wednesday said the speakers included Jennifer Palmieri, deputy communications director at the White House; Jon Carson, director of the president's Office of Public Engagement; Jeanne M. Lambrew, deputy assistant to the president for health policy; and Mark B. Childress, a deputy chief of staff at the White House. (The Blaze) Read more.
- In light of this information, we make one single decree:
"The LORD is far from the wicked but he hears the prayer of the righteous." (Prov. 15:29)
- Pray for those who are gathered outside the steps of the Supreme Court, for they have been blinded by the evil one, and they know not what they do. May our God show each one His mercy, and draw each soul to Him unto salvation. In Jesus' Name, amen.
- "Therefore hear the word of the LORD, you scoffers who rule this people in Jerusalem. You boast, "We have entered into a covenant with death, with the realm of the dead we have made an agreement. When an overwhelming scourge sweeps by, it cannot touch us, for we have made a lie our refuge and falsehood our hiding place. . . ."
"So this is what the Sovereign LORD says:
Your covenant with death will be annulled; your agreement with the realm of the dead will not stand. . . . " (Isaiah 28:14-16, 18 [in part])
2. OBAMA, CENTRALIZED GOVERNMENT AND FAITH
Presidential candidate Rick Santorum summed up his message this past Tuesday by saying: "This is an election about fundamental liberty. And the signature piece, the signature piece of legislation that points this out, where you have economic rights created by the government, and then the government using its heavy hand to force you to buy insurance, to force you to take policies that you don't want, and, of course, to force you to take coverages that may even violate your faith convictions."
That is the key: Hussein Obama believes that government overrides any individual freedom; that the 'common good' as defined by him gives government the right to not only intrude upon but control the individual actions of each citizen. (Religious Freedom Coalition)
-Our Mighty God, thank you that this candidate and others have voiced concerns about this unlawful mandate and we pray for strong voices to rise up against it. In the name of Jesus, we speak defeat to the law forcing citizens to buy and use governmental healthcare only and we come against the requirements to violate one's conscience. We pray for Americans to use the power of the vote wisely, knowing they will have to answer to You for it. Thank you, that our hope is in You. In Jesus' Name, amen.
-"This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come." (2 Timothy 3:1)
3. CONGRESSMEN SUPPORT RELIGIOUS FREEDOM
Amid recent attacks by the Obama Administration on religious freedom, Congressman Jeff Landry (R, LA-03) led a coalition of 79 House Members in sending a letter to the Budget Committee requesting that no funding be allocated to any effort which forces entities to violate their sacred beliefs. The letter urges the Budget Committee to remember the faith of our Founding Fathers and preserve our fundamental religious freedoms. (Religious Freedom Coalition) Read more
- Father, we thank You for Congressmen and women who will stand up to speak for those who are led by You to set boundaries on doing the things they know You consider wicked. We ask for more men and women to take the same strong stand against tyranny of the conscience. Lord, please make a way where there does not seem to be one. Raise a strong standard against those who would force others to violate their beliefs. In Jesus' Name, amen.
-"When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him." (Isaiah 59:19 b)
3. OBAMACARE AND CONSCIENCE: ONE PRIEST SPEAKS OUT
A Catholic Homily that is sweeping the nation
On February 5, 2012 Father Sammie Maletta delivered a Homily at St. John the Evangelist Parish in St. John, Indiana. This Homily addressed how President Obama is threatening our Religious Freedom and declaring war with the Catholic Church. Please take a few moments to listen. No one sums it up quite like Father Maletta.
To view the video of Father Manetta's homily, go here.
To fight the HHS Mandate, go here.
- Offer a word of praise for this bold statement made by one Catholic priest in Indiana. Pray that many more voices would be raised in our nation, to decry and to destroy this mandate. Pray!
- "Blessed are they who maintain justice, who constantly do what is right." (Psalm 106:3)
5. CONGRESSIONAL PRAYER CAUCUS OPPOSES HHS MANDATE
Members of the Congressional Prayer Caucus are also speaking out against this mandate. We refer you to their blog by going here.
Please note especially two articles on the CPC blog, as follows:
1. "Religious Freedom is the Crux of the Matter," posted March 9th
2. "The State of Religious Freedom in America," posted on February 17th.
- Give thanks to the LORD for these men and women in Congress, as well as many more, who are also lifting up their voices to oppose the tyranny of the HHS Mandate. Please ask our Lord to place His Hand of protection over each one, and to grant them wisdom, strength and grace in the days ahead as they continue to wage this war on behalf of us all.
- "Fight the good fight of faith." (I Timothy 6:12)
5. OUTRAGE OVER "POST BIRTH ABORTION"
Congressman Joe Pitts (R-PA) went to the floor of the House to express his outrage over an article in the February edition of the Journal of Medical Ethics titled "After-birth abortion: why should the baby live?" The authors state that "merely being human is not in itself a reason for ascribing someone the right to life." I am sure that Adolf Hitler would agree, if he were alive. He did not ascribe the right to life to any Jew. (Religious Freedom Coalition)
- Heavenly Father, we are appalled at the notion that a human being can be killed if he or she is deemed too sick to survive in the opinion of so called experts. Lord, we believe in miracles and ask that an outrage would come against this barbaric practice. Thank you for voices in Congress to address this issue of infanticide. In Jesus' Name, amen.
- "Thou shalt not kill." (Exodus 20:13)
6. OBAMA'S PRIORITY: ABORTION V. ADOPTION
Abortion Funding Yes, Adoption Funding No
Hussein Obama's recent budget proposal would end a lifesaving adoption program while continuing to advocate for hundreds of millions of dollars to subsidize the abortion industry.
On December 31, 1998, Hannah Strege was born to proud parents, John and Marlene Strege. As the father of two (and soon to be three), I can tell you that every birth is a miracle, and every child is a gift from God. However, there was and is something uniquely special about Hannah. Hannah was the first baby ever delivered after having been adopted as a frozen embryo. These babies are often referred to as snowflake babies.
Snowflake babies begin their journey to an adoptive family when the in-vitro fertilization process of another couple generates "leftover" embryos. When this occurs, the genetic parents of these embryos have the option to give them up for adoption rather than allow for them to be simply destroyed. As evidenced by Hannah (and many more after her), the result can be truly life-giving, and can help couples realize the desire of welcoming a child into their family.
In recent years, the federal government has been promoting this embryo adoption program by providing funding to increase awareness of its existence. Last fiscal year, $1.9 million was used for this purpose. However, President Obama's Fiscal Year 2013 budget proposes an end to this funding. (Life News) Read more. [Reported by: Christian Coalition of America]
- Stand in the gap and cry out in prayer for a nation, and a president, that values death more than life. Yes, difficult decisions must indeed be now made regarding our national budget, but not at the expense of LIFE. Amen.
- "Arise, cry out in the night, as the watches of the night begin; pour out your heart like water in the presence of the Lord. Lift up your hands to him for the lives of your children, who faint from hunger at the head of every street." (Lamentations 2:19)
More News from the Hill
1. GOP MOVES TO PROTECT NUCLEAR ARSENAL FROM OBAMA
2. SENATE DEMOCRATS DEFEAT PIPELINE AND JOBS
3. JOBLESS STATS REVEAL DISPARITIES AS ECONOMY STARTS TO RECOVER
4. TEA PARTY SENATORS UNVEIL FIVE-YEAR PLAN TO BALANCE THE BUDGET
5. PENTAGON TRIES TO SELL SKEPTICAL CONGRESS ON NEW ROUNDS OF BASE CLOSURES
6. H.R. 2299: CHILD INTERSTATE ABORTION NOTIFICATION ACT (CIANA)
1. GOP MOVES TO PROTECT NUCLEAR ARSENAL FROM OBAMA
A senior House Republican leader of the Armed Services Committee filed legislation on Thursday that would limit nuclear warhead cuts under a treaty with Russia and prevent President Obama from cutting strategic nuclear forces by 80 percent. Representative Mike Turner (R., Ohio), chairman of the strategic forces subcommittee, said in an interview that the legislation he authored was introduced in response to the failure by the president to follow through on promises two years ago to spend $8 billion to modernize aging U.S. strategic weapons and infrastructure.
The modernization-funding program was a precondition for many Senate Republicans who agreed to vote in favor of ratifying the New START arms treaty with Russia in December 2010. The administration's current defense budget request, however, fails to provide full funding for the nuclear modernization program and prompted Turner and six other Republicans to take steps to block the implementation of nuclear cuts under New START."START implementation and nuclear modernization are intrinsically linked. The president made them linked," Turner said in an interview. "Without modernization, the reductions should not occur," he said.
"This is about making the president live up to his word," Turner said. "He made commitments and promises. He himself said that the modernization program was essential in order to safely reduce to the levels that were being agreed to under New START." Cosponsors of the bill include Republican congressmen John Fleming of Louisiana; Doug Lamborn of Colorado; Trent Franks of Arizona; J. Randy Forbes of Virginia; Denny Rehberg of Montana; and Jeff Miller of Florida. The bill is called "Maintaining the President's Commitment to Our Nuclear Deterrent and National Security Act of 2012." . (Washington Free Beacon) Read more.
- Once again, Obama is defying and ignoring Congress, going his own way. If a man's word cannot be trusted, where do we turn?
Call your own member of Congress and ask him or her to support this important piece of legislation. Obama must be held to his word on this very critical issue; the lives of millions could be at stake!
- "Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right." (Proverbs 20:11)
2. SENATE DEMOCRATS DEFEAT PIPELINE AND JOBS
Yesterday Senate Democrats, at the urging of Hussein Obama, voted to kill the Keystone XL pipeline. Knowing how popular the pipeline is, Harry Reid had to raise the bar for passage to 60 votes in order to defeat it. And he succeeded -- the vote was 56 to 42.
This vote is a gift to the GOP. In spite of the media's efforts to portray Obama as a moderate and cast Republicans as obstructionists, yesterday's vote demonstrated the exact opposite. Eleven Democrats defied Obama and joined all Republicans in voting for the pipeline. This project had strong bi-partisan support, but Obama stood in the way.
It should have been the easiest thing in the world for Obama to embrace the pipeline, as Bill Clinton has suggested he do. Obama's former National Security Advisor has said the pipeline is essential. With Ahmadinejad causing trouble in the Middle East, more oil from Canada is a slam dunk. With gas prices rising and millions out of work, more oil and the jobs the pipeline would have created should have been a no brainer.
But yesterday's vote is more evidence of just how captive Obama and Senate Democrats are to the left's extreme environmental ideology. Remind your friends and family members about this vote the next time they complain after filling up their tanks! (Gary Bauer; March 9, 2012)
- Father we pray that somehow, some way, You will get through to the leadership of America that dependence on foreign oil at this point in history is foolish from the jobs perspective, and a clear and present danger to our nation.
- "For she did not know that I gave her corn, and wine, and oil, and multiplied her silver and gold, which they prepared for Baal. Therefore I will return and take away My corn in the time thereof, and My wine in the season thereof . . ." [Hosea 2:8,9a]
3. JOBLESS STATS REVEAL DISPARITIES AS ECONOMY STARTS TO RECOVER
Congressman Duncan Hunter to Introduce Legislation Correcting the Record
While the Labor Department reports a surge in private-sector hiring and the nation's unemployment rate holding steady at 8.3 percent, a closer look at the numbers paints a less flattering picture of the country's post-recession growth.
The latest report for February shows lingering economic disparities among different segments of the population. And, as has been the case for decades, the unemployment rate used by the Bureau of Labor Statistics does not tell the whole story. Counting only those Americans who are actively looking for work, the jobless rate is 8.3 percent, just like it was in January. But counting those who stopped looking for work within the last year, the rate is 9.8 percent. And counting all of the above, plus those who settled for part-time jobs, the rate is 14.9 percent.
"Everybody who has friends knows it's higher," Rep. Duncan Hunter, R-Calif., told Fox News. Hunter is pushing legislation that would require the Bureau of Labor Statistics to broaden its definition for the unemployment rate. He wants the department to count those who stopped looking for work as well, which would put last month's rate at 9.8 percent.
"We just want to know what the truth is, because we can't make good policy here unless we know what the actual unemployment number is," Hunter told Fox News on Thursday, ahead of the latest labor report release. "It's not 8 percent -- anybody who's out there in the real world knows that. We need real numbers, not D.C. numbers." (Fox News) Read more.
- Pray that this legislation will pass both the House and the Senate, and is eventually signed into law, so that Congress can do the job it has been called to do.
- "A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight." (Proverbs 11:1)
4. TEA PARTY SENATORS UNVEIL FIVE-YEAR PLAN TO BALANCE THE BUDGET
Members of the Senate Tea Party Caucus on Thursday announced a plan to balance the budget in five years, cutting spending by nearly $11 trillion compared to President Obama's budget. The plan, dubbed "A Platform to Revitalize America," is a wish list of conservative policies, none of which have any chance of passing the Democratic-controlled Senate or being signed into law by a liberal Democratic president. The ambitious blueprint would achieve a $111 billion surplus in fiscal year 2017.
"The whole point here is to show we can reasonably balance the budget within a five-year period," said Sen. Jim DeMint (R-S.C.), one of the sponsors of the plan. "This idea that we have to look 30 years out to balance the budget is not only unnecessary, but it's improbable. We cannot continue to spend at our current rate for 10 more years, much less 20 or 30 more years. "This is an urgent matter."
Sens. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) and Mike Lee (R-Utah) also back the proposal, which would overhaul Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security. (The Hill) Read more.
- Father, we ask for a miracle concerning this budget plan. Move upon the lawmakers to approve this plan. May they set politics aside, and do what is best for the people. We ask your favor upon this budget. In Jesus name.
- "Therefore, since we do hold and engage in this ministry by the mercy of God (granting us favor, benefits, opportunities, and especially salvation), we do not get discouraged (spiritless and despondent with fear) or become faint with weariness and exhaustion." (2 Corinthians 4:1; AMP)
5. PENTAGON TRIES TO SELL SKEPTICAL CONGRESS ON NEW ROUNDS OF BASE CLOSURES
Facing a hostile crowd in Congress, Pentagon officials Thursday tried to make the case that lawmakers need to accept more base closures as important medicine to cure Defense budget problems.
Dorothy Robyn, deputy under secretary of Defense for installations and environment, appearing at a subcommittee hearing on the defense budget . . . Robyn said more base closures are needed because a reduction of 100,000 troops over the next five years means that less infrastructure is necessary. Robyn said the Defense Department already has about 20 percent excess infrastructure with the current force structure. "That, in a nutshell, is why we are asking for additional BRAC (base reduction) rounds," Robyn said. "The math is straightforward."
House members did not sound convinced.
Rep. Randy Forbes (R-Va.), chairman of the House Armed Services Readiness subcommittee, said he was "vigorously opposed" because he was also opposed to the Pentagon's reduction in troop levels. Rep. Joe Courtney (D-Conn.) said that the upfront costs associated with BRAC make no sense - even if it will eventually see savings - because the Pentagon must reduce its budget now under the Budget Control Act. Courtney also complained that it was unfair of the Pentagon to ask for new BRAC rounds when the department hasn't "given us a scrap of information in terms of savings." (The Hill) Read more.
- Father, we pray over these base closures. Give our leaders wisdom regarding this situation. It seems with Iran's nuclear ambitions - and Israel's safety concerns - this would not be the right time to be trimming away our military. Guide the Pentagon officials to do what is right for the safety of our country. In Jesus name, amen.
- "In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; reverently fear and worship the Lord and turn away from evil." (Proverbs 3:6,7 AMP)
6. H.R. 2299: CHILD INTERSTATE ABORTION NOTIFICATION ACT (CIANA)
No school would dream of taking your kids on a field trip without asking permission. So it seems a little ridiculous that there are people in America who think it's okay to take young girls to another state for an abortion without calling home! Yesterday, Rep. Trent Franks (R-Ariz.) tried to put a stop to this outrage by holding a hearing on the Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act (CIANA). Under this law, it would be a federal crime to take a girl across state lines to bypass the parental involvement laws in her home state.
If the legislation sounds familiar, it's because the House passed it twice in 2005 and 2006. This time around, 151 members of Congress have co-sponsored the bill (H.R. 2299), and leaders expect even more. In America, most children can't get their ears pierced or visit a tanning booth without a mom or dad's consent. What parent would say that's more dangerous than undergoing major surgery? Help Rep. Franks and others protect these girls--and your rights as parents--by calling your representatives and asking them to support H.R. 2299! (Family Research Council)
- God, we ask for Your divine favor regarding the passage of this Bill, which if passed, will save many people from having much heartache. You are the holy God who saves life and protects the unborn from being murdered. Our God not only sees the baby about to be aborted but looks into the future at the life they would have lived. Father God, we ask that You walk this Bill through to victory with no restraints from its passage. In the Name of Jesus, amen.
- "Therefore shall you observe all God's statutes, and all His judgments, and do them; I AM the Lord." (Leviticus 19:37)
On Capitol Hill This Week Volume XIX, Number 7b
INTERNATIONAL ISSUES
1. SOME 100 ROCKETS HIT ISRAEL SINCE FRIDAY
2. NETANYAHU AT AIPAC: A NUCLEAR IRAN MUST BE STOPPED
3. ISRAEL ALERTS TURKEY OF TERROR THREAT AGAINST DIPLOMATS
4. ISRAEL FACES ENEMIES ON ALL FRONTS
5. TALKS CONCLUDE BETWEEN P.M. NETANYAHU AND OBAMA
1. SOME 100 ROCKETS HIT ISRAEL SINCE FRIDAY
Iron Dome intercepts 27 out of 30 rockets fired at Beersheba, Ashdod, Ashkelon; IAF kills 15 Islamic Jihad operatives in Gaza strikes. Gantz: IDF to respond with determination to any attack
Palestinians from northern Gaza fired rockets at Beersheba, Ashdod and Gan Yavne early Saturday morning as the Color Red alert was sounded across Israel's southern cities. The IDF estimates that some 100 rockets have been fired at Israel since Friday. Meanwhile, a new Israeli air strike in Gaza killed two Palestinians riding on a motorcyle, Hamas officials and medics said on Saturday. The attack followed the firing of rockets at Israel at the weekend, raises the death toll in escalating violence since Friday to 15.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke over the phone with Ashkelon Mayor Benny Vaknin following the escalation in the south. Netanyahu expressed support and interest in the well-being of Ashkelon residents suffering from the ongoing rocket attacks on the city.
IDF Chief of Staff Benny Gantz held a special situation assessment on Saturday given the recent rocket attacks in the south. Officials decided that the IDF will respond with determination to any attack on Israel. The officials also praised the Iron Dome system which successfully managed to intercept rockets fired at southern communities.
- Father, may violence, devastation, and destruction cease within these borders. We pray supernatural protection. In Jesus name.
"Violence shall no more be heard in your land, nor devastation or destruction within your borders, but you shall call your walls Salvation and your gates Praise." (Isaiah 60:18)
2. NETANYAHU AT AIPAC: A NUCLEAR IRAN MUST BE STOPPED
Washington - Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee) conference in Washington Tuesday (March 6), following a meeting with Hussein Obama.
"Jerusalem is the eternal united capital of Israel," he began his speech to roaring applause. "Israel must always reserve the right to defend itself."
"I want to ask the supporters of Israel here to stand up and applaud the Congress for standing up and supporting Israel. Democrats and Republicans alike, I salute your commitment to the State of Israel," he said.
Netanyahu was quick to focus on the nuclear threat posed by Iran: "Every day, I open a newspaper and read about deadlines and red lines, about what Israel might do and will do - but I won't talk about that. I will never talk about that. As the prime minister of Israel, I will not gamble with its security."
"I want to explain about the dangers of Iran, and why Iran should never be allowed to develop nuclear weapons," Netanyahu continued.
"President Obama stated clearly that the US wants to prevent Iran from having nuclear weapons and that all options are on the table. Israel has the same policy - we're determined to prevent Iran from having nuclear weapons and we leave all options on the table."
"Iran says that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, but I say - if it looks like a duck, and walks like a duck, and quacks like a duck - it's a duck. But this is a nuclear duck! And it is impossible to believe that the world's most dangerous regime won't use the world most dangerous weapon."
"A nuclear-armed Iran," he warned, "will embolden its proxies, like Hezbollah, to attack Israel and US targets. And they will. They'll be doing so backed by a nuclear regime. A nuclear-armed Iran could choke the world's oil supplies. It could blackmail the world on oil."
A nuclear-armed Iran is likely to spark an arms race in the Middle East, he continued, "And the worst nightmare - a nuclear-armed Iran could threaten all of us with nuclear terrorism."
"The Jewish state will not allow those who seek our annihilation to develop such weapons. A nuclear Iran must be stopped," Netanyahu stated. "When it comes to Israel's survival we must always remain masters of our fate." During his meeting with the American president earlier Monday, Netanyahu reportedly stressed that Israel has yet to reach a decision regarding a possible strike on Iran's nuclear facilities. Speaking with reporters after the meeting, Netanyahu said that "the Israeli position was met with understanding." (YnetNews) [Reported by Bridges for Peace]
- Pray for excellent communication between the leaders of Israel and leaders of the countries of the world. Pray for wisdom for the leaders of the world.
- "For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding; He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk uprightly." (Proverbs 2:6-7)
3. REPORT: ISRAEL ALERTS TURKEY OF TERROR THREAT AGAINST DIPLOMATS
Clear and present danger? The Turkish Daily Hurriyet reported Thursday [March 8] that Israel has warned Turkey of an imminent threat of terror against Israeli diplomats stationed on its soil.
The report quoted Ankara's NTV channel as saying that the Mossad warned its Turkish counterpart, the National Intelligence Agency (MIT), that "Iran's Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force is preparing bomb attacks against Israeli targets in Turkey."
The Turkish TV channels said that four individuals had already "entered Turkey from Iran," with the necessary weapons and materials - possibly explosives - to carry out the alleged attacks. Hurriyet's MIT sources neither confirmed nor denied the report. The Quds Force serves as the Revolutionary Guards international operations arm.
Israel believes its operatives were involved in the attacks on the Israeli missions in India and Georgia in February, as well as the terror attack in Thailand. (YnetNews) [Reported by Bridges for Peace]
- Pray that Turkey will heed the warnings from Israel and that they will be alert to any suspicious activity. Pray for the safety of Israelis living across the globe.
- "'At the same time," says the LORD, 'I will be the God of all the families of Israel, and they shall be My people.' Thus says the LORD: 'The people who survived the sword found grace in the wilderness - Israel, when I went to give him rest.'" (Jeremiah 31:1-2)
4. ISRAEL FACES ENEMIES ON ALL FRONTS
(The following is from Intercessors for Israel)
We prayed that Israel might not be caught off guard by a threat from a different front eg from Syria, Egypt, Palestinians, etc. The threat from Syria becomes ever more imminent. They have one of the world's largest stockpiles of chemical and biological weapons and President Assad has said that if he is about to be overthrown he would attack Israel.
- You, Lord, are the keeper of Israel. Please keep guard and watch! The threats from every side are all too much for us. But they are not too much for You! Stop the plans of our enemies!
- Give alertness and vigilance to our leaders and security forces on every side and give wisdom to know how to deploy our resources!
5. TALKS CONCLUDE BETWEEN P.M. NETANYAHU AND OBAMA
(The following is from Intercessors for Israel)
Out of this week's talks between Benjamin Netanyahu and President Obama in the USA came declared resolution from Netanyahu that he needs to prepare his own people for every possible eventuality while Obama appealed to Israel not to talk about war against Iran. We prayed:
- for Netanyahu and the nation of Israel to "be strong and of good courage" (Joshua 1:6)
- for the people of Israel to be prepared for the dangers we are facing
- "And the governors of Judah shall say in their heart, The inhabitants of Jerusalem are my strength in the Lord of hosts, their God." (Zechariah 12:5)
- "In that day the Lord will defend the inhabitants of Jerusalem; the one who is feeble among them in that day shall be like David, and the house of David shall be like God, like the Angel of the Lord before them." (Zechariah 12:80)
More International News
1. IRAN: WE'LL NEVER SUSPEND NUKE ACTIVITIES
2. PA TV ACCUSES ISRAEL OF FIGHTING PALESTINIANS IN GOD'S NAME
3. PA WANTS DEADLINE FOR ISRAELI ACCEPTANCE OF "GROUND RULES"
4. HAMAS WON'T AID IRAN IF WAR BREAKS OUT
5. OBAMA TELLS PALESTINE TO "SIT TIGHT"
6. IRANIAN AYATOLLAH KHAMENEI PRAISES PRESIDENT OBAMA
7. OBAMA: SHOOTING OF AFGHAN CIVILIANS "TRAGIC AND SHOCKING"
1. IRAN: WE'LL NEVER SUSPEND NUKE ACTIVITIES
Iran's ambassador to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) stressed Thursday [March 8] that his country "is ready to re-engage with IAEA," amid growing pressure from world powers over its nuclear program, CNN reported.
"A new chapter (has) opened," Ali Asghar Soltanieh declared at an IAEA meeting in Vienna. Nevertheless, the Iranian official stressed that the Islamic Republic "will never ever suspend our nuclear activities," insisting that the program is exclusively for peaceful purposes. "The truth is, Iran is not developing a nuclear weapon."
Soltanieh added that international sanctions and cyber attacks against Iran will not prevent it from developing nuclear energy, and that sanctions were only working to hurt its citizens.
Addressing reports of a possible Israeli attack on Iran noted, he said that such threats are against international law, and called on the United Nations to condemn and take action against Israel. "We are facing a barbaric phenomenon," Soltanieh said, referring to the killing of Iranian nuclear scientists. In an interview with CNN, IAEA chief Yukiya Amano said that Iran is not open about its nuclear program, but should be. "Iran is not telling us everything. That is my impression. We are asking Iran to engage with us proactively, and Iran has a case to answer," Amano said. (Ynet News) [Reported by Bridges for Peace]
- Pray that all hidden things will be revealed in Iran. Pray for those overseeing the IAEA to have the knowledge they need to make informed decisions.
- "The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but he who heeds counsel is wise. There is one who speaks like the piercings of a sword, but the tongue of the wise promotes health. Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, but counselors of peace have joy." (Proverbs 12:15, 18, 20)
2. PA TV ACCUSES ISRAEL OF FIGHTING PALESTINIANS IN GOD'S NAME
One principle of Palestinian Authority religious belief is that the Palestinians' fight against Israel is for Allah and for Islam. Accordingly, the PA presents the conflict with Israel as a fight on behalf of all Muslims to liberate what they claim is Islamic holy land.
Now PA TV has broadcast a song accusing Israel of being the one fighting a religious war "in your name, oh God." The song demonizes Israel as an oppressor that "tortured" Palestinians and "usurped" Palestinian land, all in the name of religion.
While Israel does not portray the conflict as a religious war, the PA emphatically defines it as such. In January, Palestinian Media Watch exposed a speech by the PA Mufti in which he presented the killing of Jews by Muslims as a religious Islamic destiny.
PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas has said that taking Jerusalem away from Israel on behalf of Islam is a fard ayn, a personal religious obligation on every Muslim. (Palestinian Media Watch, March 4, 2012) [Reported by Bridges for Peace]
- Pray that God works in the lives of the Palestinians and that they come to know the God of Israel.
- "You shall have the same law for the stranger and for one from your own country; for I am the LORD your God." (Leviticus 24:22)
3. P.A. WANTS DEADLINE FOR ISRAELI ACCEPTANCE OF "GROUND RULES"
Palestinian Foreign Minister Riad Al-Malki said on Saturday [March3] that the Palestinian Authority will demand that Israel accept a timetable for milestones in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process. Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu has said he is prepared to re-start talks immediately, but Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas rejected the offer, arguing that a sufficient basis for negotiations is lacking.
The Palestinians have steadfastly refused to resume negotiations until Israel accepts pre-1967 borders and an absolute freeze on construction in Jewish communities located on land Israel acquired in the 1967 war. Israel rejects those terms as "pre-conditions."
During the past two months, two meetings have been held in Amman under the patronage of Jordanian King Abdallah II and under the auspices of the Quartet - the international entity sponsoring peace talks made up of the US, UN, EU and Russia - but no tangible results followed.
Al-Malki said Abbas will make public the contents of a letter spelling out its position and alleging Israeli violations of previous agreements that will be sent to Netanyahu in coming days. Israel's government has warned it will reject what it perceives to be attempts to enforce pre-conditions to negotiations. (By The Media Line, March 5, 2012) [Reported by Bridges for Peace]
- Pray for the peace of Israel. Pray for an understanding between Israel and the Palestinians.
- "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: 'May they prosper who love you. Peace be within your walls, prosperity within your palaces.' For the sake of my brethren and companions, I will now say, 'Peace be within you." (Psalm 122:6-8)
4. HAMAS WON'T AID IRAN IF WAR BREAKS OUT
Senior Politburo member in Gaza Strip Salah Bardawil said that Hamas "will not do Iran's bidding in any war with Israel, and will not launch rockets at Israel at Tehran's request. If there is a war between two powers, Hamas will not be part of such a war." Bardawil was quoted as saying, "Hamas is not part of military alliances in the region. Our strategy is to defend our rights."
Analysts said that this somewhat surprising stance illustrates the rift between Hamas and Iran - its key financial patron; as well as Gaza-rulers realignment with Egypt's new ruling party, the Muslim Brotherhood.
A second, anonymous Hamas source, told the British newspaper that the group "will not get involved in any war between Iran and Israel." Defense analysts speculate that in the event of a war between Jerusalem and Tehran, the latter will task its proxies in the region - Hamas and Hezbollah - with firing rockets at Israel.
However, Bardawil insisted that "Hamas has never given complete loyalty to Tehran. "Bardawil also spoke about the situation in Syria. Hamas has diminished its presence in Damascus over the escalating violence in the country, with Hamas Politburo Chief Khaled Mashaal relocating to Qatart. According to Bardawil, Hamas' office in Damascus "is still open and functioning, but it is empty. We still haven't found another country to move our office to." Politburo members are now scattered between Jordan, Qatar and Egypt. (YnetNews) [Reported by Bridges for Peace]
- Pray for God's continued protection for the people of Israel. Pray that God's glory will prevail.
- "Be exalted, O God, above the heavens, and Your glory above all the earth." (Psalm 108:5)
5. HUSSEIN OBAMA TELLS PALESTINE TO "SIT TIGHT"
Help Is On Its Way AFTER 2012 Election
Palestinian Foreign Minister Riad Malki publicly indicates he was promised help from Obama administration after the 2012 election. His statements come just days after Barack Obama met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Talking out of both sides of his mouth has become a fixture of the Obama presidency - and it appears the increasingly volatile Middle East situation is no exception. In fact, it is quite likely the often conflicted message coming out of the Obama White House is to blame for much of the region's worsening condition. If an American president consistently places ideological politics ahead of international principle, the world is likely to suffer - it becomes a matter of just how much suffering.
And no better example of the Obama administration's "politics before everything" operation can be seen than this most recent indication from the Palestinian government that they have been promised "vigorous U.S. mediation" in Palestine's efforts to extract more concessions from Israel as well as statehood recognition from the United Nations.
According to an AP REPORT published today, the relationship between the Obama administration and Palestine is quite cozy:
"Everybody was telling us, including the Americans, 'don't expect that much from us during the election year because the president will be focusing on how to be re-elected, and in order to do so, he should really shift his attention . . . to other issues,'" Malki said. He did not say how those messages were delivered. Obama administration officials are frequent visitors at Abbas' headquarters. (The Ulsterman Report) Read more.
- Abba Father, we fall before You to profoundly repent and beg for mercy on behalf of our nation due to the constant betrayal from our federal governmental leaders of Your people and special chosen land Israel. We are all being betrayed. We know as a people we need Your mercy, Lord, as we have so sinned as a nation and fallen away from Your Biblical ways. Have mercy on us, Lord, in Jesus' name, Amen and Amen!
- "Let God arise, Let His enemies be scattered. Let those also who hate Him flee before Him. As smoke is driven away, so drive them away. As wax melts before the fire, so let the wicked perish at the presence of God. But let the righteous be glad; let them rejoice before God; Yes, let them rejoice exceedingly. Sing to God, sing praises to His name; Extol Him who rides on the clouds; By His name YAH, and rejoice before Him." (Psalm 68:1-4)
6. IRANIAN AYATOLLAH KHAMENEI PRAISES HUSSEIN OBAMA
(The following is from Intercessors for Israel)
Ayatollah Khamenei praised Hussein Obama this week for his statement that he is not thinking about war with Iran. This praise from the supreme leader of Iran must be a sign to Israel if not to the United States that we can't let up with our prayers and our preparations for the war which may come. We continued to pray for God to act sovereignly to hold back this threat:
- Cause earthquakes to swallow up Iran's nuclear facilities. You know where all these places are, God. Open up the earth so the people of Iran would know You are God. By the work of Your Spirit undermine the power of Islam from within.
- Cause more mistakes and accidents in these places created for destruction!
- Sow division among our enemies! Especially within the Iranian leadership
- Bring to nothing the intent to "wipe Israel off the map"!
- Take up arms on behalf of your people and bring down this evil regime!
- "The Lord brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; He makes the plans of the peoples of no effect. The counsel of the Lord stands forever, the plans of His heart to all generations." (Psalm 33:10-11)
7. HUSSEIN OBAMA: SHOOTING OF AFGHAN CIVILIANS "TRAGIC AND SHOCKING"
U.S. officials worked quickly to calm tensions after an American service member opened fire on Afghan civilians Sunday, killing at least sixteen.
Obama said he was "deeply saddened" by news of the attack, in a statement released by the White House. "I offer my condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, and to the people of Afghanistan, who have endured too much violence and suffering," he added.
The incident comes at a critical time for U.S., Afghan relations. Last month, the accidental burnings of Qurans by American troops at an airbase sparked a week of violent protests, killing six Americans and over 30 Afghans. Obama said the shooting was "tragic and shocking, and does not represent the exceptional character of our military and the respect that the United States has for the people of Afghanistan." (The Hill)
- Join together in prayer this morning, asking our Lord to intervene in this horrific matter. May He calm these troubled waters; bring peace in this storm; and may He bring answers to this tragedy . . . in His time.
- "This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us-whatever we ask-we know that we have what we asked of him." (I John 5:14,15)
Remembering Japan
1. FUKUSHIMA: ONE YEAR LATER
2. JAPAN SAYS THANK YOU
3. FEDS APPROVE POST-FUKUSHIMA POWER RULES
4. JAPANESE TSUNAMI TRASH THREATENS HAWAII, U.S. WEST COAST
1. FUKUSHIMA: ONE YEAR LATER
Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant surrounded by desolate no-man's-land year after disaster
Nothing prepares you for entering Japan's 12-mile exclusion zone around the crippled nuclear power plant at Fukushima. Everybody still has to wear radiation suits and face masks when entering, but within the area it is as if time has stood still. In other areas along the coastline, a lot of the debris from the tsunamis that hit the shore a year ago, taking over 15,000 lives, has been removed and many homes have been rebuilt. But in the exclusion zone nearly everything has been left untouched.
Village after village we traveled through is silent. There are, of course, no people, but there also are no domestic animals, like cats or dogs or farm animals. The only life you can see are birds. . . (Fox News) Read more.
- Dear Abba Father, we come before You to lift up in prayer the desolation that lingers not just physically but also emotionally and spiritually in this Fukushima area. They are left with stark reminders of this terror evoking event, since no cleanup has occurred and not all the deaths have been found, for closure for the families. The drifting tons of items swept away are moving with the currents toward Hawaii and towards the west coast of the US, as stark reminders of this event; bringing not only pollution and debris, but also overwhelming challenges to health and property. We speak Your comfort, strength and encouragement, Lord, into these peoples' lives, in Jesus' name, Amen and Amen.
- "The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. And those who know Your name will put their trust in You; For You, Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you." (Psalm 9:9-10)
2. JAPAN SAYS THANK YOU
One Year After: Japan Says `Thank You` to the World!
Dear Friends, It was a year ago that our beloved Japan was devastated by an Earthquake, Tsunami and Radiation in an unprecedented disaster. In the middle of our most difficult time, the world responded and thousands came to help us and deliver tons of supplies that sustain us still.
We will never forget!
As the Commissioner of the Japan Tourism Agency, and as part of our `thank you` campaign I want to say a big `thank you` to the all who came and helped us, those who prayed for us and cared so much at our time of need.
Although we still have a long way to go, `Japan is back`.
Please come and visit us as together we rebuild. You will find a grateful people who are waiting for your kind return!
Sincerely,
Hiroshi Mizohata, Commissioner
Japan Tourism Agency
- O Lord God, May the Japanese people remember that many who came to help them were Your people! In remembering this, may they repent for their national leadership who spoke so strongly against Israel and its people. We ask that Your Holy Spirit continue to hover over them, convicting and drawing them to You so that they truly will be free, in Jesus' name, Amen and Amen.
- "The Lord looks from heaven; He sees all the sons of men. From the place of His dwelling, He looks on all the inhabitants of the earth. He fashions their hearts individually; He considers all their works." (Psalm 33:13-15)
- "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy." (Matthew 5:7)
3. FEDS APPROVE POST-FUKUSHIMA POWER RULES
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission on Friday authorized staff to issue beefed-up safety requirements for U.S. nuclear power plants, the first new rules issued in response to the disaster at Japan's Fukushima Daiichi power plant.
NRC Chairman Gregory Jaczko praised the decision to issue three post-Fukushima orders, but warned that the commission most continue working to implement the entirety of the safety reforms put forward by a federal task force last year. The orders represent the "highest-priority" recommendations of the task force, according to the commission.
The orders require that operators better protect safety equipment and install new technology to monitor water levels of spent-fuel pools located at plants. A separate order requires that certain reactors improve venting systems "that help prevent or mitigate core damage in the event of a serious accident," according to the commission.
Jaczko and the other NRC commissioners stressed that U.S. plants are safe. They said the new rules are necessary to prevent a disaster in a worst-case scenario. (The Hill) Read more.
- Pray that these new regulations will take the maximum effect possible. In the end, however, our real reliance is upon God: the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Amen.
- "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." (Isaiah 41:10)
4. JAPANESE TSUNAMI TRASH THREATENS HAWAII, U.S. WEST COAST
This report is on a video, posted by Fox News.
To view this video report on the tsunami debris now heading to our nation, go here.
- Ask our Lord to place His merciful Hand of protection over all areas in our nation that are now threatened by this flood of potentially radioactive tsunami debris. Our God is a God of miracles; and we do need a miracle now.
- "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)
This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
ALMIGHTY
(Shadi)
"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty." (Psalm 91:1)
How I praise You, El-Shadi, Almighty, maker of heaven and earth! There is peace in my soul when I come into Your secret place. There is no other place that I would rather be than under Your shadow. Thank You for Your ever-present protection over my life, El-Shadi, Mighty God of Israel. Amen.
(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)
