Note: Congress has now gone into a two-week recess for its Spring District Work Period. Accordingly, we will not publish an OCAP next weekend, but will stand down to celebrate Resurrection Sunday with family and friends. Our next edition of On Capitol Hill This Week will be released on Monday, April 16.
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On Capitol Hill This Week ("The OCAP") Volume XIX, Number 9a
April 2 - 6, 2012
"And he shall bring forth the capstone with shouts of "Grace, grace to it!" (Zechariah 4:7)
"And they that went before, and they that followed, cried, saying, 'Hosanna; Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.'" (Mark 11:9)
DOMESTIC ISSUES
1. HEALTH CARE AT THE SUPREME COURT - THE NEXT STEP
2. BRUTAL WEEK FOR OBAMA, THE WORST OF HIS PRESIDENCY
3. OBAMA EXPANDS HIS EXECUTIVE POWER
4. NATIONAL OCEAN POLICY: AN EXECUTIVE POWER GRAB
5. SPEAKER BOEHNER SEEKS ANSWERS ON OBAMA'S "FLEXIBILITY" COMMENT
6. DEFENSE DEPARTMENT SEEKS NEW AUTHORITIES FOR TERRORISM FIGHT
7. HOMELAND SECURITY ORDERS HUGE AMOUNT OF AMMUNITION
8. LAWMAKER CHASTISED FOR WEARING HOODIE IN HOUSE
9. TRAYVON'S FATHER: LOOKING FOR PEACEFUL RESOLUTION
10. FEDERAL CYBER NETWORKS ARE COMPROMISED
11. LAWMAKERS OPPOSE U.N. REGULATION OF THE INTERNET
12. HOUSE REJECTS OBAMA'S BUDGET PROPOSAL BY UNANIMOUS VOTE: 414-0
13. AFTER A LONG YEAR, CONGRESS GRANTS ITSELF AN ACTUAL RECESS
14. U.S. GOVERNMENT BURNS BIBLES; CONDEMNS BURNING OF QUR'ANS
1. HEALTH CARE AT THE SUPREME COURT - THE NEXT STEP
Now that oral arguments on the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act are finished at the Supreme Court, everyone is wondering what comes next. The short answer is that we will not hear anything until June when they are expected to issue the opinion. But much will be happening from now until then that will require us to remain diligent in our prayers for the justices. (Concerned Women for America) THIS ORIGINAL ARTICLE CAN BE SEEN BELOW.
- As you will learn by reading this article in its entirety, the final decision on how the Court will decide on the legality of the Affordable Care Act is far from being a "done deal." Continued, earnest prayer is required to bring this process to the finish line, for the blessing of the American people, and in obedience to the perfect will of God. Pray!!
- "The mouths of the righteous utter wisdom, and their tongues speak what is just. The law of their God is in their hearts; their feet do not slip." (Psalm 37:31,32)
2. BRUTAL WEEK FOR OBAMA, THE WORST OF HIS PRESIDENCY
The past seven brutal days will go down as one of the worst weeks in history for a sitting president. It certainly has been, without any doubt, the worst week yet for Obama. Somehow, Obama managed to embarrass himself abroad, humiliate himself here at home, see his credentials for being elected so severely undermined that it raises startling questions about whether he should have been elected in the first place - let alone be re-elected later this year. (By Charles Hurt; Washington Times) Read more.
- Ask the Lord to use the shaking in the life of the President for His Glory and for His redemptive purpose in the life of Barack Hussein Obama.
- "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9)
3. OBAMA EXPANDS HIS EXECUTIVE POWER
Despite campaign promises to refrain from using executive powers to bypass Congress, Obama is increasingly doing just that, the Wall Street Journal reported on Friday. From helping rebels in the Libyan revolution to granting states waivers from the No Child Left Behind education act, Obama is finding it easier to push his agenda without asking for approval from elected senators and representatives, the paper said. And that is not sitting well with either Republicans or Democrats who are keen to defend their own turf against what they see as an overreaching executive. (Newsmax) Read more.
- Heavenly Father, we have someone in the White House whose actions reflect that he has no respect for our nation's Constitution and for the balance of power under which our nation was established. Lord, we petition You to put forth Your right hand and cut off these actions. May you have mercy on his soul but we ask that You confront him fully with who You are and what he is so glibly violating, in Jesus' name, Amen and Amen!
- "The wicked watches the righteous, and seeks to slay him. The Lord will not leave him in his hand, nor condemn him when he is judged. Wait on the Lord, and keep His way, and He shall exalt you to inherit the land. When the wicked are cut off, you shall see it. I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a native green tree,. Yet he passed away, and behold, he was no more; indeed I sought him, but he could not be found." (Psalm 37:32-36)
4. NATIONAL OCEAN POLICY: AN EXECUTIVE POWER GRAB
The Obama Administration power grab continues. This time the president wants to seize more executive control over a massive piece of real estate: our oceans, the tributaries that lead to them, and the inland areas that surround those waterways.
Plenty of regulations, on the federal, state, and local levels, already govern the supervision of our oceans and coastlines. An estimated 140 laws are on the books for managing fisheries, offshore energy development, and marine conservation. Instead of cutting out the overlap and redundancy, and lessening the heavy burden of government rules, the Obama Administration is following a course that will create broad new regulations and expand Executive Branch overreach.
Just months after Obama occupied the White House he formed a panel of federal bureaucrats and told them to create a "national policy" that would oversee oceans, coastlines, and the Great Lakes. Then, by executive order, the president launched a National Ocean Council which led to nine smaller panels. As the layers of federal bureaucracy pile up, so have the guarantees that the outcome - the president's National Ocean Policy - will be another top-down, centralized plan that tramples the power of states and the rights of individual citizens. . .
Obama's National Ocean Policy should be authorized by specific legislation and funded through the regular appropriations process. Implementing this power grab through an executive order, with funds diverted from other Congressional-appropriated programs is simply wrong. Existing laws already manage fisheries, and we don't need a costly, massive, new, job-destroying layer of bureaucracy to centralize more power in Washington, and jeopardize the liberties of hard-working citizens. Until Congress receives answers to the questions we have asked about the authority and funding for this National Ocean Policy, I will continue to oppose this policy. (By Rep. John Fleming; R-La.) Source: The Hill (Read more)
- Dear Heavenly Father, we bring this horrendous grab of power and control before Your throne and seek assistance from You to counter the destruction of jobs and people's way of life that this executive order creates. We take up the sword of the Living Word of God and slash and destroy what is being sought here Lord! This action ignores the laws under which this nation was established and the freedoms under which we are governed. Have mercy Lord, in Jesus' Name, Amen and Amen.
- "The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their cry. The face of the Lord is against those who do evil, to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth. The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles." (Psalm 34:15-17)
5. SPEAKER BOEHNER SEEKS ANSWERS ON OBAMA'S "FLEXIBILITY" ON MISSILE DEFENSE
WASHINGTON, DC - House Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) today sent a letter to President Obama requesting answers about his comments to Russian President Dmitri Medvedev concerning America's missile defense program. In October, Speaker Boehner delivered an address on the president's "reset" policy with the Russian government in which he urged the administration not to make any unilateral concessions to the Russians that would diminish America's missile defense capabilities. A PDF of the letter sent today can be found here. (Christian Coalition of America)
Please note: here's how Charles Krauthammer sees this exchange:
"That's [Obama's] way of saying with a nod and a wink, 'Look, you guys have a free hand because you run a dictatorship, your elections are rigged. Well, ours aren't rigged, but once I get passed my last election, I'm unleashed. I can do anything I want."
- Lord God, the statements made by this president, referring to plans that are in place "after the upcoming election," classify him as a willing accomplice in an agenda that would weaken our missile defense capabilities and our stability as a nation. But God, we trust that You will show forth Your loving-kindness in the morning, and Your faithfulness every night, and so we place this matter in Your hands. We ask You, Lord, to call forth Your holy warring angels to fight against and defeat all of our enemies. In the Name of Jesus Christ we pray, amen.
- "When the wicked spring as the grass, and when all the workers of iniquity do flourish; it is that they shall be destroyed forever; but You, Lord, are most high and in control forevermore. For, lo, Your enemies, O Lord, for, lo, Your enemies shall perish; all the workers of iniquity shall be scattered." (Psalm 92:7-9)
6. DEFENSE DEPARTMENT SEEKS NEW AUTHORITIES FOR TERRORISM FIGHT
As the Pentagon begins to wind down the war in Afghanistan, the smaller conflicts elite U.S. forces are fighting around the world are heating up. But DoD needs more than just men and materiel to meet these challenges. It needs additional authority from Congress to do so.
"Most of the authorities that we have right now are narrowly construed to counter terrorism . . . [but] I think for some countries we may need a little bit more flexibility to go in there," Michael Sheehan, assistant secretary of defense for special operations and low-intensity conflict, told lawmakers on Tuesday in a hearing before Senate Armed Services Subcommittee. "If we have a broader range of authorities, we can respond with more agility to each country with a different set of programs," Sheehan said. "I think that's the direction we're thinking."
The majority of counter terrorism missions by U.S. special forces have been focused on al Qaeda and Taliban cells in Afghanistan and the Middle East region. But growing numbers and types of threats, particularly in Africa and South America, require a new approach to U.S. counter terrorism operations, Sheehan told members of the Senate Armed Services' subcommittee on emerging threats and capabilities.
Subcommittee chairwoman Sen. Kay Hagan (D-N.C.) and subpanel member Sen. Rob Portman (R-Ohio) pressed Sheehan on what exactly DoD was looking for, in terms of legislative authorities. While not going into too much detail, Sheehan said the lines between terrorism and crime have become increasingly blurry and current U.S. statutes to address either have not kept up.
Under current federal authorities, counter terrorism is strictly a military operation conducted by DoD. Pursuing transnational criminal groups falls to law enforcement and is done by the Department of Justice. "Some of these threats are not pure terrorism," Sheehan explained. DoD needs to be able to go after groups that straddle the line between terrorism and organized crime.
"We are looking for some legislative authority . . . that might be able to give us some broader authorities, legislative authorities and multiyear funding for some of the types of activities that I'd like to do in terms of building coalitions to take on these complex threats," Sheehan said.
DoD will hand over a slate of potential legislative options being drafted by Sheehan's office to lawmakers "in the weeks and months ahead," he added. However, the Pentagon is already beginning to move ahead with its plans for both continents. (The Hill) Read more.
- Lord Jesus, forgive us as a nation and people who think, as reflected in this Pentagon request, that we have been appointed to interfere and control so many places in the world. Yes, there are serious issues all over the world but we as a nation have not appointed by You to rule over them. Have mercy and direct our prayers for the protection of the sovereignty of these nations. We ask this in the mighty name of Jesus, Amen and Amen!
- "I, wisdom, dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge and discretion. The fear of the Lord is to hate evil. Pride and arrogance and the evil way and the perverse mouth I hate." (Proverbs 8:12,13)
7. HOMELAND SECURITY ORDERS HUGE AMOUNT OF AMMUNITION
The Department of Homeland Security and its Immigration and Customs Enforcement office is getting an "indefinite delivery" of an "indefinite quantity" of .40 caliber bullets from defense contractor ATK. U.S. agents will receive a maximum of 450 million rounds over five years, according to a press release on the deal. The high performance HST bullets are designed for law enforcement and ATK says they offer "optimum penetration for terminal performance." (Washington Times) Read more.
- Lord God, we know not what plans this administration may have in mind as they store up this vast amount of ammunition, so we submit those plans to Your plans for our nation. If rumors of suspected violence in the streets and/or a new civil war are true, we ask for a spirit of restraint to fall upon our governing authorities, and our citizens, that we might yet be safe in our cities and on our streets. Thank You, Lord, for hearing and for answering our prayers today, in Jesus' Name, amen.
- "These are the things which you should do: speak the truth to one another; judge with truth and judgment for peace in your gates." (Zechariah 8:16)
8. LAWMAKER CHASTISED FOR WEARING HOODIE IN HOUSE
Rep. Bobby Rush donned a hoodie during a speech on the House floor Wednesday deploring the killing of Florida teenager Trayvon Martin, receiving a reprimand for violating rules on wearing hats in the House chamber. The Illinois Democrat spoke out against racial profiling and, as he removed his suit coat and pulled the hood on the sweatshirt he was wearing underneath over his head, saying "just because someone wears a hoodie does not make them a hoodlum."
Rush was interrupted by the presiding officer, Mississippi Republican Gregg Harper, who reminded him that the wearing of hats was not allowed and "members need to remove their hoods or leave the floor."
Rush founded the Illinois chapter of the Black Panthers in 1968 . . . and won a seat on Chicago's city council in 1983 and was elected to Congress from Chicago's South Side in 1992. In 2000 he defeated Barack Obama, then a state senator, in a primary battle for Rush's seat.
Rush lost a son to a shooting in 1999 and has been a strong advocate for victims of gun violence. (CNS News; AP) Read more.
- Ask our Lord to pour His healing balm over waters of racial strife that are being stirred up in our nation at this time. Pray for the heart of Rep. Rush and many others who have lost sons and daughters due to gun violence in our nation. May our Lord heal their own pain, even as we cry out that our right to bear arms remains intact in America under the Constitution. Amen.
- "But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." (Isaiah 53:5)
9. TRAYVON'S FATHER: LOOKING FOR PEACEFUL RESOLUTION
Parents Testify on the Hill in Committee Hearings
The father of a black Florida teen killed in February by a neighborhood watch captain says his son's death shouldn't be a race issue, and that his family is looking for a peaceful resolution in the case.
Speaking to Fox News' Geraldo Rivera on his show "Geraldo at Large," Tracy Martin, father of slain teen Trayvon Martin, said though the family is seeking justice, they are also promoting peace.
"First and foremost, me and my family, as well as my attorneys are promoting non-violence in this issue," he said. "We just want a peaceful resolution - we're promoting peace. We're not responsible for anybody's actions." (Fox News) Read more.
- As above, pray in agreement with the desire of this father's heart.
- "These are the things which you should do: speak the truth to one another; judge with truth and judgment for peace in your gates." (Zechariah 8:16)
10. FEDERAL CYBER NETWORKS ARE COMPROMISED
Network security experts from across the U.S. government told a U.S. Senate Armed Services Subcommittee Tuesday that federal networks have been thoroughly penetrated by foreign spies, and that current perimeter-based defenses that attempt to curb intrusions are outdated and futile. Speaking before the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Emerging Threats and Capabilities the experts told the assembled Senators that the U.S. government needed to abandon the notion that it could keep outsiders off its computer networks.
"We've got the wrong mental model here," Dr. James S. Peery, director of the Information Systems Analysis Center at Sandia National Laboratories, testified. "I don't think that we would think that we could keep spies out of our country. And I think we've got this model for cyber that says, 'We're going to develop a system where we're not attacked.' I think we have to go to a model where we assume that the adversary is in our networks. It's on our machines, and we've got to operate anyway. We have to protect the data anyway."
Zachary J. Lemnios, the assistant secretary of defense for research and engineering at the Department of Defense described the situation as "an environment of measures and countermeasures." "We can do things to make it more costly for them to hack into our systems. . .," Senator Rob Portman (R-OH), ranking member of the Emerging Threats and Capabilities subcommittee said as a point of clarification, "but you didn't say we can stop them."
Dr. Kaigham J. Gabriel acting director of DARPA likened the situation to treading water in the middle of the ocean as a metaphor to describe the state of security on federal networks. Treading water is a great way to stay alive, to buy breathing room, he said, but treading water in the middle of the ocean inevitably leads to drowning. "It's not that we're doing wrong things, it's just the nature of playing defense in cyber," Gabriel said. All the experts called for better offensive capacities, but opted to wait for a closed-door session to go into specifics. (Threatpost.com) Read more.
You can view the hearing here.
- During World War II, America's military came up with a secret code of communication that the Japanese never cracked into, even with diligent attempts. We call on the intelligence of Almighty God to give America supreme knowledge that exceeds the mental ability of our enemies. In the mighty Name of Jesus Christ.
- "O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments, and His ways past finding out! For who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been His counselor? For of Him, and through Him, and to Him, are all things: to whom be glory forever. Amen." (Romans 11:33-36)
11. LAWMAKERS OPPOSE U.N. REGULATION OF THE INTERNET
Two House lawmakers introduced a resolution on Tuesday urging the United States Permanent Representative to the United Nations to oppose any resolution that would regulate the Internet. The bill's sponsors, Reps. Michael McCaul (R-Texas) and Jim Langevin (D-R.I.), warned that China and Russia may seek a U.N. resolution to give authoritarian regimes the license to continue censoring the Internet. The lawmakers said their resolution is consistent with President Obama's stated policy to "preserve, enhance and increase access to an open, global Internet. "
"Any action taken by the United Nations to attempt to limit Americans' right to free and open Internet content is unacceptable," McCaul said in a statement. "The Internet's current multi-stake holder model has provided an unburdened environment for ideas and inventions to thrive. No single state should have control over content and information must be freely disseminated."
Langevin said that giving international approval to Internet censorship "would be a significant setback for anyone who believes free expression is a universal right. . . It must be made clear that efforts to secure the Internet against malicious hacking do not need to interfere with this freedom and the United States will oppose any attempt to blur the line between the two," Langevin said. (The Hill) Read more.
- Offer praise that these members of Congress are opposed to interference with our internet freedom by the United Nations, and pray that this legislation will be passed quickly by both the House and the Senate. In His name, amen.
- "Again I say to you, that if two of you agree on earth about anything that they may ask, it shall be done for them by My Father who is in heaven." (Matthew 18:19)
12. HOUSE REJECTS OBAMA'S BUDGET PROPOSAL BY UNANIMOUS VOTE: 414-0
The House on Wednesday night unanimously rejected an alternative budget proposal based on Obama's 2013 budget plan, dispatching it in a 0-414 rout. The vote came just hours after the White House cast the pending vote as a political "gimmick," an apparent attempt to downplay what many expected to be an ugly-looking vote for the White House. . .
Obama's budget plans have a poor track record in Congress over the last year. In May 2011, 97 senators voted against a motion to take up his 2012 budget plan - no senator voted in favor of the motion. (The Hill) Read more.
- Offer praise for the marvelous work of the Lord, who watches over us in love. Only He knows the ins and outs of politics like none other; and only He knows how to rescue our people from plans that would bankrupt our nation. Praise Him today!
- "Let every thing that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord!" (Psalm 150:6)
Please see also: "Ryan budget passes House with 10 Republican defections" (The Hill) Go here.
13. AFTER A LONG YEAR, CONGRESS GRANTS ITSELF AN ACTUAL RECESS
The House and Senate left for a two-week break that, for the first time in a year, will not be punctuated by occasional pro forma sessions. Instead, both chambers passed an adjournment resolution this week, granting themselves an actual recess until they both return on Monday, April 16.
It's the first adjournment resolution Congress has approved since last year's Easter break. House Republicans have frequently rejected the idea of a recess, as they have been wary of recess appointments by the Obama administration. In an effort to get around this possibility, the House has insisted on holding pro forma sessions, which often last just a few minutes.
The House can insist on these informal sessions because under the Constitution, neither the House nor Senate can recess without the consent of the other body. By rejecting a formal recess, the House has forced both chambers to hold two brief sessions each week, requiring at least one member to preside in the chamber.
The GOP was outmaneuvered in January, when the Obama administration ignored the pro forma sessions and recess-appointed three nominees to the National Labor Relations Board, and Richard Cordray to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Republicans fumed over those appointments, and have warned that the decisions these bodies make could be challenged as invalid because they will be made by people who did not legally assume their positions.
Just this week, House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman Darrell Issa (R-Calif.) introduced a resolution that says it's the sense of the House that Obama's January appointments are not valid.
Despite this battle, Republicans appeared to be put at ease enough to allow an official recess this Easter, in light of a deal that Senate leaders agreed to with the White House. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) said Thursday that as a result of these discussions, there would be "no recess appointments" over the Easter break. (The Hill) Read more.
- Pray that the Senate Majority Leader will stick to his promise this time, and that no "dirty tricks" will take place during this much-deserved recess period.
- "Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one." (Matthew 5:37)
14. U.S. GOVERNMENT BURNS BIBLES; CONDEMNS BURNING OF QUR'ANS
The U.S. government condemns burning the Qur'an. Yet the U.S. government burns Bibles. This is a clear violation of the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. To learn more about this policy, please view this YouTube video: "Shariamerica: Islam, Obama, and the Establishment Clause," presented by David Wood, founder of Acts 17 Ministries.
- Lord God in Heaven, we ask You for mercy upon our land and upon our elected officials and upon those in authority in the military! For way too long now, we have viewed evil and called it good; and we have scorned good, calling it evil. We have clearly lost our way. Lord God, please have mercy and show us the way back again to You, for only the truth can set our people free. Mercy, Lord, Mercy. Amen.
- "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter." (Isaiah 5:20)
Health Care at the Supreme Court- the Next Step
Mario Diaz, Esq.
Published by Concerned Women for America
Now that oral arguments on the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ObamaCare) are finished at the Supreme Court, everyone is wondering what comes next. The short answer is that we will not hear anything until June when they are expected to issue the opinion. But much will be happening from now until then that will require us to remain diligent in our prayers for the justices.
On Friday, the Justices met alone in conference to discuss the case and the oral arguments in general. The Chief Justice opened the discussion with the applicable law and the facts of the case. Following the discussion, they took a vote, starting with the Chief Justice and following with the Justices in order of seniority.
The Justices ordinarily stick to their initial positions, but they are allowed to -and in rare circumstances, do indeed- change their votes later.
If the Chief Justice is in the majority, he will decide who writes the opinion. If he is not in the majority, then the most senior Justice in the majority will make the assignment. The minority will decide in the same manner for the dissent. Justices can also issue concurrent opinions.
From there the consultation begins between the Justices about the specific language to be used. That language is just as crucial as the bottom line in the case. As you are all aware, that language will be used from then on to aid the courts when deciding, not just cases on health care, but many other related matters. Concurring opinions and even the dissent's language are also important.
Consider the issues involved in this case, and you will quickly get a glimpse of how important this is. The case deals with issues of federalism, separation of powers, religious liberty, taxes, and the scope of the power granted by the Constitution to the federal government, among many others.
We must pray for a good bottom line outcome, but we must also pray for God to guide the Justice's every word as they write.
A Commentary from Mary Murphy, President, Christian Women's Outreach:
IT IS NOT OVER UNTIL IT IS OVER!!
It is critical that you continue to pray over this issue of the Supreme Court and Healthcare. As this article from Concerned Women of America demonstrates, please note that the Justices are allowed to change their minds from their original vote, and might possibly do so.
The Lord tells us to "WATCH AND PRAY." Diligence in prayer is our job for now. It is a long time until June. The Justices seem to have given a favorable sign that this could be overturned but "it isn't over until it is over." Those "signs" must be manifested into votes-not impressions.
PRAY THAT GOD'S WILL BE DONE FOR THE PEOPLE OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
"Blessed are those servants, whom the Lord when he comes shall find watching . . ." (Luke 12:37)
On Capitol Hill This Week ("The OCAP") Volume XIX, Number 9b
INTERNATIONAL ISSUES
Israel in the News
1. BOLTON ACCUSES ADMINISTRATION OF LEAKING STORY
2. ISRAEL HAS QUIET TIES TO AZERBAIJAN
3. LAND DAY TURNS VIOLENT
4. LAND DAY RALLIES IN COUNTRIES BORDERING ISRAEL
5. FEARING SYRIA WAR, GANTZ HOLDS SURPRISE DRILLS
6. IDF, U.S. HOLD JOINT EXERCISES IN MEDITERRANEAN SEA
7. IT'S RAINING IN ISRAEL!
1. BOLTON ACCUSES ADMINISTRATION OF LEAKING STORY
Bolton accuses administration of leaking story on Israeli planning along Iran border
Former U.S. diplomat John Bolton alleged Thursday that the Obama administration leaked a story about covert Israeli activity in order to foil potential plans by the country to attack Iran's nuclear program. Bolton, who served as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations in the George W. Bush administration, was responding to an article in Foreign Policy magazine that quoted government sources claiming Israel had been granted access to airfields in Azerbaijan -- along Iran's northern border.
The article did not state exactly what the Israelis' intentions were, but it suggested it could point to a possible strike on Iran. "I think this leak today is part of the administration's campaign against an Israeli attack," Bolton claimed on Fox News.
The White House did not respond to Bolton's claims Thursday.
Bolton, a Fox News contributor, noted that a strike launched from Azerbaijan would be much easier for the Israelis than a strike launched from their own country -- jets could stay over their targets longer and worry less about refueling. But he said tipping the Israelis' hand by revealing "very sensitive, very important information" could frustrate such a plan.
"Clearly, this is an administration-orchestrated leak," Bolton told FoxNews.com. "This is not a rogue CIA guy saying I think I'll leak this out. It's just unprecedented to reveal this kind of information about one of your own allies," Bolton said. (Fox News) Read more.
- O God of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and our God, we thank You for bringing this work of darkness out into the Light. Father, we ask, that according to Your Word, You would bless those who bless Israel, and curse those who curse Israel. Betraying the trust of an ally, who is in mortal danger, certainly seems to qualify as a curse. We thank You that You are the God of Israel, and You watch over Your Word to perform it! It goes forth out of Your mouth, and it does not return to You void, but accomplishes the thing it was sent out to do. We ask, Lord, that the curse would return upon the person or persons who did this; and not our entire nation. You know that the majority of Americans are kindly inclined toward Israel, and we ask that Your judgment would come only upon those responsible for this betrayal. Bless and protect Israel, we pray, and give them Your strategies and favor! In Yeshua's precious Name, Amen!
- "And I will bless those who bless you [who confer prosperity or happiness upon you] and curse him who curses or uses insolent language toward you; in you will all the families and kindred of the earth be blessed [and by you they will bless themselves]." (Genesis 12:3)
2. ISRAEL HAS QUIET TIES TO AZERBAIJAN
In a report last week, Foreign Policy cited senior US government leaders who revealed Israel had secured the use of airbases in Azerbaijan, a nation that borders Iran to the north. "The Israelis have bought an airfield, and the airfield is called Azerbaijan," said one US official. . .
Last month, Azerbaijan quietly signed a deal to buy $1.6 billion worth of Israeli arms largely comprised of anti-aircraft and missile defense systems equipment. The country has allegedly denied reports it provided Israel with an airfield near the border with the Islamic Republic. Azerbaijan could be expected to avoid stirring up a hornet's nest with Iran and other Islamic regimes by curtailing such disclosures. (Fox News)
- Approximately 99.2% of the population of Azerbaijan is Muslim. The country is known to be among the most progressive Islamic societies. Its support for secularism and tolerance is the highest among Muslim nations. Intercede for Azerbaijan to become Israel's increasingly staunch ally - and to be protected from fear and bullying tactics from Iran.
Pray for the people of Azerbaijan to have open hearts and access to the Good News of Yeshua. Pray also that military activity deemed necessary by the Jewish state for its own security will not be disclosed by US politicians. (JERUSALEM-ON-THE-LINE)
- "If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer." (Matthew 21:22)
3. LAND DAY TURNS VIOLENT
Anti-Israel organizers and leaders of Land Day events and the Global March to Jerusalem promised that March 30 demonstrations would be non-violent. Israel was prepared, however, for the true face of hatred to rear its ugly head as the day progressed.
Land Day turned brutal Friday when Arabs began hurling Molotov cocktails and stones at soldiers near the Kalandia checkpoint north of Jerusalem. The riots began after Friday afternoon Muslim prayers when dozens of masked Arab youths began rioting at the checkpoint. Soldiers responded with tear gas and deployed the "Skunk" - a vehicle loaded with canons spraying a noxious-smelling liquid. Several protesters were slightly injured in the clashes and taken to the hospital.
Hundreds of Arabs also gathered near the Nablus Gate in Jerusalem in an attempt to stage an illegal march, but were stopped by police. Numerous arrests were reported. Meanwhile, Jordanian news sites disclosed some 20,000 people had gathered to take part in the massive march towards the Israeli border. Lebanese newspaper As-Safir reported 120 Hamas-provided buses for transporting protesters to the Israeli border to participate in the "Global March on Jerusalem." Friday's violence was widely expected as rallies took place throughout Israel. Security officials, deployed thousands of additional troops and police officers on Thursday in anticipation of trouble. (INN)
ONE PA ARAB DEAD IN LAND DAY RIOTS
In a late Friday press release, Bethlehem-based Ma'an news agency reported that protester, Mahmoud Zaqout, was killed by Israeli fire when he tried to breach the security zone near the Erez Crossing. An Israeli army spokesman said that one PA Arab man approached the Erez crossing before soldiers opened fire. The spokesman added that forces acted within the rules of engagement, firing warning shots and then directly targeting him when he refused to stop. Earlier Friday, Arabs began hurling firebombs and stones at soldiers near the Kalandia checkpoint north of Jerusalem. (Arutz-7)
The Vision for Israel team (and Capitol Hill Prayer Partners) conveys appreciation to those who responded to our special prayer alert sent Thursday. Prayer and intercession have likely prevented deaths and injuries on a wide scale that might have resulted from such a hate propelled operation.
- "The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." (James 5:16)
4. LAND DAY RALLIES IN COUNTRIES BORDERING ISRAEL
In Jordan a large rally took place, Friday, drawing 14,000 people - including protesters who arrived from Asia to take part in the Pro-Palestinian event. Concurrently, an estimated 5,000 people held an anti-Israel rally in southern Lebanon. Some arrived at the demonstration from Lebanon's Palestinian refugee camps, while others travelled from as far as India. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister, Hussein Amir Abed Lahyan, toured southern Lebanon near the border with Israel, and promised the Islamic Republic will continue to support the Lebanese and Palestinian resistance "until the entire land is liberated."
A Hezbollah delegation attended the reception held for the Iranian official. In Syria, hundreds of protesters rallied in Damascus in show of solidarity for the Palestinians, while the Palestinian community in Egypt staged a protest in Cairo's Tahrir Square. Meanwhile, in a related and shocking development further afield, far-left candidate, George Galloway, won a landslide win in the by-election for the Bradford West parliamentary seat in the UK on Thursday night. He celebrated his victory, tweeting to supporters, ". . . Long live Palestine . . . " (Ynet/Ha'aretz)
- As we witness the increasing violence and hatred by Israel's neighboring countries, all directed towards her, let us fix our gaze upon our Messiah, who is the Author and the Finisher of our faith. Offer quiet praise that God Himself will fight for Israel when the time comes, and she will be safe under the shelter of His wing.
Pray too for her enemies, for they know not what they do. In coming against Israel, her enemies are really coming against the very God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. May He have mercy upon their souls, drawing them to Himself unto salvation. Amen!
- "Yet hear me now, O Jacob My servant, and Israel whom I have chosen, Thus says the LORD who made you and formed you from the womb, who will help you: 'Fear not, O Jacob My servant; And you, Jeshurun, whom I have chosen. For I will pour water on him who is thirsty, and floods on the dry ground; I will pour My Spirit on your descendants, and My blessing on your offspring." (Isaiah 44:1-3)
5. FEARING SYRIA WAR, GANTZ HOLDS SURPRISE DRILLS
Fearing a future war with Syria, IDF Chief of Staff Lt.- Gen. Benny Gantz held a surprise drill inspection of two key military bases in the North on Sunday to ensure that they will be able to continue operating in the event of significant missile attacks.
Commanders at the bases - one a critical ammunition depot and the other a key maintenance base for IDF armored vehicles - were surprised when Gantz and other senior officers arrived at the gates of their bases to review operations there.
A senior IDF officer who participated in the inspections said that they were aimed at ensuring the military's readiness for a wide range of scenarios including possible war with Syria as well as additional border demonstrations like those held over the weekend. "Our assumption is that both of these bases will come under major missile fire in a future war and nevertheless, soldiers there will need to know how to continue to operate," the officer said.
Gantz has explained that the objective of the drills is to help create a new mindset within the IDF according to which Israel needs to be prepared for the possibility that war could erupt without warning, particularly in light of the ongoing upheaval sweeping the Middle East. (Jerusalem Post) Read more.
- Lift up the brave men and women of the IDF as they continue to respond to these surprise drills. Ask that they be granted unusual abilities to anticipate any move an enemy might make against them, and to respond accordingly. May each one be endued with a strength and a boldness that comes from our Lord on high. Amen.
- "David said to the Philistine, "You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied." (1 Samuel 17:45)
6. IDF, U.S. AND GREECE HOLD JOINT EXERCISES IN MEDITERRANEAN SEA
Meanwhile Sunday, the IDF was holding joint air and navy maneuvers with the United States and Greece in the Mediterranean Sea. According to reports in the Greek press, the drill was focusing on air-to-air combat scenarios as well as anti-submarine warfare. The drill is under the supervision of the US's Sixth Fleet.
The exercise, called Noble Dina, was first held in 2011 and came to fill a void created after Turkey pulled out of joint maneuvers it had held with Israel since 1998 after Ankara suspended military cooperation with the IDF in 2010. (Jerusalem Post) Read more.
- Pray that Operation Noble Dina will be fully successful, and that all three nations will "walk away" from this experience better equipped to move in unity against a common enemy, should war break out in that region. Offer praise for the cooperation of U.S. and Israeli military, as we work together to protect our people.
- "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." (1 John 5:14-15)
7. IT'S RAINING IN ISRAEL!
As we write, it is snowing and raining again in the north, and is forecast to shower in Jerusalem this evening. What a blessing this is! For the first time in seven years the water level in the Sea of Galilee has risen two meters during a single rainy season. This season has also greatly improved the level of water in the large underground mountain aquifer. The other aquifer which runs along the coast is still low, and the Sea of Galilee is still three meters from full-but we are so grateful that things are getting back to normal.
In Israel, the "Former Rains" usually come between October and the middle of March. The so-called "Latter Rains" come from around Passover until early or middle May.
PLEASE PRAY:
- That as we enter the time of the Latter Rains, they will be poured out in abundance. This is not an extravagance; the Lord has invited us to ask-especially during the time of the Latter Rains!
- That the rains will benefit our neighbors.even those considered our enemies, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan and Egypt.
- That Israel would take such measures as she will need both to preserve her water, and supplemental measures such as desalination. She has finally begun to make advances in this; today half of Israel's drinking water comes from three desalination plants (which retrieve potable water from the salt-water of the Mediterranean); two more plants are planned to come on line within two years. God knows how much may be necessary in the future.
- Grateful offerings of praise for God's mercies upon us so far this year!
- "ASK THE LORD FOR RAIN IN THE TIME OF THE LATTER RAIN. The LORD will make flashing clouds; He will give them showers of rain, Grass in the field for everyone." (Zechariah 10:1) (Martin & Norma Sarvis; Jerusalem)
More International News
1. RED ALERT: PENTAGON ACTIVATES MISSILE DEFENSES FOR NORTH KOREA LAUNCH
2. SATELLITE PICS REVEAL NORTH KOREA'S RAPID LAUNCH PREPARATIONS
3. CONGRESSIONAL LEADERS OPPOSE ARMING SYRIAN REBELS
4. ANNAN TO BRIEF UN SECURITY COUNCIL ON SYRIA PEACE PLAN
5. SAUDI KINGDOM ARMING "REBELS" IN SYRIA
6. U.S. CALLS ON IRAN TO PROVE ITS NUCLEAR PROGRAM INTENDED FOR PEACEFUL MEANS
7. TURKEY TO COOPERATE WITH WEST'S SANCTIONS ON IRAN BY CUTTING OIL IMPORTS
8. MUSLIM BROTHERHOOD STRATEGIST SET TO RUN FOR PRESIDENT OF EGYPT
9. INTERNET ACTIVITY 'TO BE MONITORED UNDER NEW LAWS IN UK
1. RED ALERT: PENTAGON ACTIVATES MISSILE DEFENSES FOR NORTH KOREA LAUNCH
The Pentagon recently activated its global missile shield in anticipation of North Korea's launch of a long-range missile, according to defense officials. The measures include stepped-up electronic monitoring, deployment of missile interceptor ships, and activation of radar networks to areas near the Korean peninsula and western Pacific.
Three interceptor ships near Japan and the Philippines, as well as U.S.-based interceptors, are ready to shoot down the North Korean missile if space-, land-, and sea-based sensors determine its flight path is targeted at the United States or U.S. allies, said officials who spoke on condition of anonymity.
The Obama administration will regard any launch by North Korea as a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions regardless of whether the North Koreans claim the rocket test is for space launch purposes, the officials said. The technology and rocketry used for a space launch is nearly identical to that used with ballistic missiles that carry a warhead, they said.
Also, because the payload or warhead of the test launch cannot be determined prior to launch, the Obama administration decided to activate the missile defense system.
According to U.S. officials, current intelligence assessments indicate the North Korean missile will be launched from a base called Tongchang-ri, located on a west coast peninsula north of Pyongyang between April 12 and April 15. (Washington Free Beacon) Read more.
- Just as our military is now on a state of red alert in light of this news, so we should be, too. Contact others in your intercessory networks and begin to cry out over North Korea, asking our Lord to cover that nation, and its leaders, with His shed blood. Declare and decree the TRUTH from Scripture of His protection over His own, and be comforted knowing that His Word will not return unto Him void. Pray!
- "No weapon formed against you shall prosper . . . " (Isaiah 54:17a)
2. SATELLITE PICS REVEAL NORTH KOREA'S RAPID LAUNCH PREPARATIONS
Satellite images of a North Korean rocket launch site show a mobile radar trailer and rows of what appear to be empty fuel and oxidiser tanks, evidence of ramped-up preparation for what Washington calls a cover for a long-range missile test.
An analysis of images that the US-Korea Institute at Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies gave to Associated Press on Monday shows Pyongyang "has undertaken more extensive preparations for its planned April rocket launch than previously understood."
"These pictures are new and important evidence that the north's preparations for its rocket launch are progressing according to schedule," said Joel Wit, visiting fellow at the institute and editor of its website on North Korea, 38 North. (AP) Read more.
- As above, continue in prayer that all of our military personnel and equipment/technology will be able to function with the greatest possible efficiency should this launch occur. And continue to remain on watch, even through this lovely holiday week, for it is when we are at ease that any enemy is most likely to strike. Pray!
- "I will stand on my guard post And station myself on the rampart; And I will keep watch to see what He will speak to me, And how I may reply when I am reproved." (Habakkuk 2:1)
3. CONGRESSIONAL LEADERS OPPOSE ARMING SYRIAN REBELS
The top-ranking Republican and Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee said Sunday that they would not support arming rebels in Syria, signaling that Congress could oppose any such effort by the administration.
Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Mich.), the chairman of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, said it would be risky to arm the rebels, members of the Sunni Muslim population in Syria. "I think we both agree that's probably a bad idea. Mainly because we just don't know who they are," Rogers said on CNN's "State of the Union" when asked about the possibility of arming the rebels.
The United Nations estimates more than 9,000 people have been killed in the uprising that has pitted Sunni Muslims against Syria's ruling Alawite sect, a branch of Shia Islam, to which President Bashar al-Assad belongs.
Rep. C.A. "Dutch" Ruppersberger (Md.), the senior Democrat on the panel, suggested Syrian defense forces could give weapons of mass destruction to terrorist groups in retaliation or the rebels could form allegiances with terrorists, such as al Qaeda, a Sunni Muslim group, after winning power.
"They have a cadre of weapons that are very dangerous. And we are concerned, just like we were in Libya that if they - if these weapons of mass destruction, if the chemical or biological weapons get in the hands of - of terrorists or other groups, that could be very detrimental to the Middle East. But also to - to the national security of the United States," he said. (The Hill) Read more.
- Our Mighty God, we thank You that our Congressmen are cautious about supporting so called "freedom fighters" who may well be representatives of even more radical and oppressive organizations than the Assad regime. We ask You to give the lawmakers divine wisdom in their handling of this situation. We speak Your peace over the area. We pray that as the men and women of the Middle East see chaos and tyranny all around them, that they will seek the Prince of Peace Jesus.
- "Draw me not away with the wicked, and with the workers of iniquity, which speak peace to their neighbours, but mischief is in their hearts." (Psalm 28:3)
4. ANNAN TO BRIEF UN SECURITY COUNCIL ON SYRIA PEACE PLAN
Violence is continuing in Syria as the UN and Arab League envoy, Kofi Annan, prepares to brief the Security Council on the progress of his peace plan. Activists say at least three people have been killed in an army offensive in Idlib province, and there has been fresh fighting in the city of Homs. There has also been an explosion in central Damascus, state media report.
On Sunday, Gulf Arab states agreed to pay the salaries and other costs of the rebel Free Syrian Army (FSA). The money, which will be distributed through the opposition Syrian National Council, is the first formal international support for the FSA. The decision was announced at a meeting in Istanbul of the "Friends of Syria" - a group of 83 countries backing political change.
Meanwhile, the head of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Jakob Kellenberger, is on his way to Damascus for talks about expanding aid operations and gaining access to all detainees. During his two-day visit, Mr Kellenberger plans to visit areas affected during the fighting, the ICRC said in a statement. He will also push the ICRC's proposal for a daily two-hour ceasefire to allow aid to be delivered and the wounded to be evacuated. (BBC) Read more.
- With so many voices expressing their opinions and viewpoints about what should be done about Syria, it's no wonder that this situation has not changed now in over half a year . . . or more. Pray much in the Spirit over events in Syria, and especially for the protection of Christians who are still living in this land. May God's perfect will be accomplished in and through that ancient nation, as we yield our tongues to Him. Amen.
- "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God's people in accordance with the will of God." (Romans 8:26,27)
5. SAUDI KINGDOM ARMING "REBELS" IN SYRIA
Why is one of the top five most despotic nations in the world arming the "rebels" who are fighting for "democracy" in Syria? The Saudi government, a despotic nation completely under sharia law, would not arm any group fighting for democracy. The fact that the the Saudis are supplying arms to the "rebels" in Syria, should tell our government the true nature of the anti-government forces in Syria. Particularly when al-Qaeda is also arming the "rebels!" The "rebels" are for the most part religious fanatics who want to bring down the secular government and establish a purely religious state under sharia. The Saudi Kingdom is supporting the implementation of sharia law and the destruction of the Christian church in Syria, not democracy. (Religious Freedom Coalition)
- Father God, we ask You to intervene in Syria so that yet another Middle Eastern government is not taken down by so-called "democracy" fighters. Lord, we pray that the real agenda of these "rebels" be revealed to the world and that the deep funding from rich Saudis would cease. Lord, protect Your remnant in Syria and elsewhere they are threatened.
- "Behold these are the ungodly, who prosper in the world; they increase in riches." (Psalm 73:12)
6. U.S. CALLS ON IRAN TO PROVE ITS NUCLEAR PROGRAM INTENDED FOR PEACEFUL MEANS
Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton on Sunday urged Iran to back up its declaration that Islam bars weapons of mass destruction by agreeing to a plan that would prove it does not intend to develop nuclear arms. Ahead of international talks April 13 in Istanbul on Iran's uranium enrichment program, Clinton talked strategy with Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who visited Tehran last week with other government officials.
"They were told that the supreme leader (Ayatollah Ali Khamenei) viewed weapons of mass destruction as religiously prohibited, as against Islam," Clinton said at a news conference. "We are meeting with the Iranians to discuss how to translate what is a stated belief into a plan of action," she said. "It is not an abstract belief, but a government policy. That government policy can be demonstrated in a number of ways . . . The international community now wants to see actions associated with that statement of belief." (Haaretz) Read more.
- Offer praise that the United States is confronting Iran regarding its intended uses for its nuclear facilities. Pray against all deception, and call forth wisdom and discernment for Mrs. Clinton and this administration in all matters relating to Iran. May God Himself intervene to stop all nuclear production in the nation of Iran. He is able!
- "Get yourself ready! Stand up and say to them whatever I command you. Do not be terrified by them, or I will terrify you before them." (Jer. 1:17)
7. TURKEY TO COOPERATE WITH WEST'S SANCTIONS ON IRAN BY CUTTING OIL IMPORTS
Turkey decided to partially cooperate with the U.S. and European sanctions on Iran, and will cut its oil imports from the Islamic Republic by 20 percent. Turkey's Energy Minister, Taner Yildiz, said on Saturday that Turkey will make up for its oil imports by trading with Libya and other countries. It seems, however, that Turkey will not purchase oil from Saudi Arabia, after the kingdom refused to grant Ankara preferential conditions.
In light of Turkey's continued refusal to implement the full extents of the sanctions, it has recently come under heavy U.S. pressure, including warnings that Turkish oil companies might bear the brunt for such inaction. According to the sanctions the U.S. is promoting, any country that does not downgrade its oil trade with Iran would face more U.S. sanctions - and despite efforts by Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan not to include Turkey in this policy, U.S. President Barack Obama - despite a deep friendship between the countries - decided not to grant Ankara a 'pass.' (Haaretz) Read more.
- Praise the Lord for this stated agreement with Turkey. Now let's see if Turkey keeps its word. Pray that Turkey's agreement will not be followed with clandestine relations with Iran. Ask the Lord to oversee this situation with Turkey and to protect Israel.
- "Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment." (Proverbs 12:19)
8. MOSLEM BROTHERHOOD STRATEGIST SET TO RUN FOR PRESIDENT OF EGYPT
COULD EMERGE AS ENEMY OF ISRAEL.
"The Moslem Brotherhood nominated its chief strategist and financier Khairat el-Shater on Saturday as its candidate to become Egypt's first president since Hosni Mubarak, breaking a pledge not to seek the top office and a monopoly on power," reports the New York Times. "Because of the Brotherhood's unrivaled grass-roots organization and popular appeal, Mr. Shater, 62, a multimillionaire business tycoon who was a political prisoner until just a year ago, immediately became a presidential front-runner. If he wins the June election, the Brotherhood, a previously outlawed Islamist group, would control the presidency, the Parliament and the committee writing the new constitution, moving toward a confrontation with Egypt's military rulers over the country's future. His candidacy is likely to unnerve the West and has already outraged Egyptian liberals, who wonder what other pledges of moderation the Brotherhood may abandon.
The Brotherhood is also engaged in a standoff with the military over its calls to dissolve the military-led government, and the degree of civilian oversight of the military in the new constitution. The Brotherhood's participation also turns the election into a referendum on the role of Islamist politics in post-Arab Spring governments that is sure to resonate across the region. Mr. Shater faces Islamist rivals to his left and right - one a more liberal former Brotherhood leader, the other an ultraconservative Salafi. Indeed, the Brotherhood may have entered the race in part because a win or near win by either rival Islamist would badly damage its authority as the primary voice of the Islamist movement in Egypt....An Israeli official, speaking on condition of anonymity, declined to comment specifically on Mr. Shater but called the nomination a worrisome turn. 'Obviously this is not good news,' the official said. 'The Muslim Brotherhood is no friend of Israel's. They do not wish us well. The big question will be how pragmatic they will be once in power. It could go in either direction.'" (Joel Rosenberg's blog from the New York Times)
- This is not good news for anyone interested in true democracy, especially Israel and America. Pray that the Moslem Brotherhood does not gain power over all the branches of power in Egypt. This organization will do anything nefarious to gain control and have been working for years to achieve a victory they see now as within their grasp. For the Christians in Egypt, this maneuver for power is a death knell.
- "The burden of Egypt. Behold, the Lord rides upon a swift cloud, and shall come into Egypt; and the idols of Egypt shall be moved at His presence, and the heart of Egypt shall melt in the midst of it." (Isaiah 19:1)
9. INTERNET ACTIVITY 'TO BE MONITORED UNDER NEW LAWS IN UK
Ministers are preparing a major expansion of the Government's powers to monitor the email exchanges and website visits of every person in the UK, it was reported today. Under legislation expected in next month's Queen's Speech, internet companies will be instructed to install hardware enabling GCHQ - the Government's electronic "listening" agency - to examine "on demand" any phone call made, text message and email sent, and website accessed in "real time", The Sunday Times reported. A previous attempt to introduce a similar law was abandoned by the former Labour government in 2006 in the face of fierce opposition. (BBC) Read more.
- Pray against similar legislation being adopted in the USA as is being done in the UK.As a much smaller nation, Britain does have a more vulnerable task with terrorists, especially the Moslems who were invited to settle in the UK after WWII. Pray that our Congress would never consider such a law, even if an administration proposed it. We must be a righteous nation, not a "Big Brother!"
- "With my soul have I desired Thee in the night; yea, with my spirit within me will I seek Thee early: for when Thy judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of the world will learn righteousness." ( Isaiah 26: 9)
The Daily Jot!
Prophetic End Time Sign: Turkey arising as power broker
Gallup polling reports that 82% of Egyptians oppose United States economic aid. Some 56% of Egyptians last month said that closer relations with the US was bad for their country, while 60% said relations with Turkey are a positive thing. This could prompt the newly formed Muslim Brotherhood radical government of Egypt to turn to Turkey for aid rather than from its traditional source, the US. Over all, the attitudes of Egyptians may signal a subtile shift in Middle East diplomacy that has great prophetic implications. This, combined with a stronger presence of Turkey as an acceptable mediator by the West and the Middle East puts Turkey in an end time prophetic position of importance.
The Jerusalem Post reports, "Turkey has been one of the biggest winners of the Arab revolts, as people around the Muslim world look to its ruling Justice and Development Party as a model for combining Islamic values with economic growth (the number of Egyptians expressing approval for the Ankara government grew 22% since April 2011 to 37%)." The New York Times wrote in January, "Supporters credit (Prime Minister Recep Tayyip) Erdogan with elevating Turkey's profile in the Middle East, turning the country into an increasingly assertive regional player at a time when several of its neighbors are locked in sometimes violent struggles for democracy."
Case in point: After a two-day visit to Iran, Erdogan told reporters that an Israeli attack on Iran would devastate the entire Middle East. Erdogan made the point of saying he shares concerns with the American president that an Israeli attack on Iran could trigger a regional war. The Turkish newspaper Hurriyet reports that Erdogan also sided with Iran by saying the International community is turning a blind eye to Israel's "250-300 nuclear warheads" while trying to stop Iran's peaceful nuclear program. Erdogan is considered by the West as the leader of a "model" Islamic democracy. In reality, Erdogan is a bridge between Shiite Iran and the Moslem Brotherhood in Egypt which promotes a return of the Islamic Caliphate.
The Islamic Caliphate/Ottoman Empire, headquartered in Turkey, was one of the longest lasting empires in history spanning 624 years from 1299 to 1923. It ruled over much of southeast Europe, Western Asia and North Africa. Its control over the Middle East was far greater than the Roman Empire. Some scholars now believe that a revised Ottoman Empire is the one prophesied by Daniel as the end-time antichrist system. Also the antichrist army of Ezekiel 38 is led from specific locations in Turkey--Magog, Meshech, Tubal. Yeshua Ha Mashiac is quoted in Revelation 2:13 that Pergamos is "even where Satan's seat is . . . where Satan dwells."
Pergamon is in Turkey. Turkey arising--a sign of these prophetic times in which we live.
Have A Blessed And Powerful Day,
Bill Wilson
www.dailyjot.com
BREAKING NEWS
Obama warns 'unelected' Supreme Court against striking down health law
Obama, employing his strongest language to date on the Supreme Court review of the federal health care overhaul, cautioned the court Monday against overturning the law -- while repeatedly saying he's "confident" it will be upheld. The president spoke at length about the case at a joint press conference with the leaders of Mexico and Canada. The president, adopting what he described as the language of conservatives who fret about judicial activism, questioned how an "unelected group of people" could overturn a law approved by Congress.
"I'm confident that the Supreme Court will not take what would be an unprecedented, extraordinary step of overturning a law that was passed by a strong majority of a democratically elected Congress," Obama said.
The Supreme Court spent three days hearing arguments last week in four separate challenges to the health care law, which stands as the president's signature domestic policy accomplishment. A central challenge was over the individual mandate -- the requirement that Americans buy health insurance. Critics say the mandate is unconstitutional, and that the federal government cannot force people into the insurance marketplace.
Obama on Monday said that without such a mandate, the law would not have a mechanism to ensure those with preexisting conditions get health care. "I'm confident that this will be upheld because it should be upheld," Obama and said, describing the law as "constitutional." (Fox News)
- Pray for the protection of the nine Supreme Court justices who are now beginning to write opinions about this case. Lift up the president . . . may he come to know and to understand that this nation functions not under tyranny, but under law . . . and in three branches of government, accountable to each other. Pray!
- "The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." (James 5:16)
This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
GOD OF ALL COMFORT
(Eholhay Khawl Nakhamah)
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort. . ." (2 Corinthians 1:3)
What a comfort to know You, the God of all comfort. No matter what my affliction, Your comfort is greater. Thank You that in the midst of a storm, You are my peace, my Shalom, oh God of all comfort.
"I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness; I will sing the praises of the name of the LORD Most High." (Psalm 7:17)
(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)
