• The Daily Brief
• The Middle East in Focus
• Obama Exerts Executive Privilege
• Update: House Hearing on Moslem Radicalization
• Youcef vote results
• Today's Legislative Focus
• Update: NDP Ruling in Colorado
• The Good News Corner
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
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P.O. Box 5152
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The Daily Brief Wednesday, June 20, 2012
"I will give you hidden treasures, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the Lord, the God of Israel, who summons you by name." (Isaiah 45:3)
The Daily Brief
Please note: The following four headlines . . . published yesterday, are shown with prayers included today.
1.a) Russian Commandos 'to Escort Assad Out of Syria' - Israel National News
Reports to this effect were cited by Voice of Israel radio's veteran "listener" Miki Gurdus, who specializes in listening to radio broadcasts on various frequencies worldwide. The Interfax news agency said Monday that two Russian navy ships are to sail to Syria to protect Russian citizens and its naval base there.
b.) Russia to send ships and marines to Syria - The Times of Israel
Interfax quoted an unidentified Russian navy official as saying that the Nikolai Filchenkov and Caesar Kunikov amphibious assault vessels will be heading to the Syrian port of Tartus, but didn't give a precise date. The official said the ships will carry an unspecified number of marines to protect Russians in Syria and evacuate materials from Tartus if necessary.
- Lord, we pray the leaders in Russia, their navy officials - and also leaders in Syria - come to realize the errors of their ways and come to repentance. We pray the Russian navy will not be used for evil. We pray for Your intervention in this news reported out of Israel. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
- Their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed innocent blood; Their thoughts are thoughts of iniquity; Wasting and destruction are in their paths. The way of peace they have not known, and there is not justice in their ways; They have made themselves crooked paths; Whoever takes that way shall not know peace. (Isaiah 59:7-8)
2. IDF: Iran Realizing Assad is Finished - Israel National News
IDF Spokesperson Brigadier General Yoav (Poly) Mordechai said Friday that Syria's allies Iran and Hizbullah are coming to realize that Bashar Assad's regime has "reached its end."
"Another week is almost over, during which the desperate effort by Iran and Hizbullah to help the Assad regime survive was evident," Brig. Gen. Mordechai wrote on his official Facebook page. "[Assad's allies] are beginning to understand that the end is just a matter of time and therefore I wouldn't be surprised if they are already planning for the day after."
- Lord, we call for justice and truth in the situation in Syria. We pray that evil and iniquity would not prevail. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
- No one calls for justice, Nor does any plead for truth. They trust in empty words and speak lies; They conceive evil and bring forth iniquity. (Isaiah 59:4)
3. Will raging power struggles inside the Vatican usher in radical change? - Word Press
The mood at the Vatican is apocalyptic. Pope Benedict XVI seems tired, and both unable and unwilling to seize the reins amid fierce infighting and scandal. While Vatican insiders jockey for power and speculate on his successor, Joseph Ratzinger has withdrawn to focus on his still-ambiguous legacy.
- Lord, we pray for the Vatican and the Catholic church. Lord, our hearts go out to those who have given their lives to serve You in the understanding that they have. Lord, we pray for true salvation wherever it is needed in the Catholic church. We ask that this turmoil be brought into truth and light, that there be repentance and salvation. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
- For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death. (2 Corinthians 7:10)
4. a) Indonesia's Mount Marapi volcano spews volcanic ash - Word Press
Mount Marapi in West Sumatra province spewed volcanic ash up to 500 meters into the sky on Sunday morning. "The volcano spewed volcanic ash for about 10 minutes starting at around 08.30 a.m.," Mubarak, who lived on the slope of the volcano, said on Sunday.
b.) 6.4 magnitude earthquake strikes off the east coast of Japan - Word Press
A 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Japan early on Monday, the U.S. Geological Survey said. The epicenter was 72 miles southeast of Morioka on Japan's Pacific coast, the USGS said, updating an initial report that said the quake was of magnitude 6.3 and 95 miles off the coast.
- Lord, we pray this shaking near Japan will cause Japan and others to awaken to Elohim who is the creator and Almighty God. We say "Awake, you who sleep, Arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light." We pray that Japan and others will take the steps naturally, and spiritually, that they may see the light. Lord, we also pray for mercy; that the earth shaking would not be devastating, but that it would bring people to life and not death. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
- Awake, you who sleep, Arise from the dead, And Christ will give you light. (Ephesians 5:14)
And now . . . today's headlines:
1. House panel backs contempt for Holder - Fox News
Issa says floor vote can still be avoided
A House panel voted Wednesday in favor of holding Attorney General Eric Holder in contempt of Congress, a move that inflamed partisan rancor on Capitol Hill and sets up the possibility of legal action against the attorney general himself.
Holder has not yet been formally held in contempt of Congress. The full House would still need to approve the resolution in order for that to happen -- Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif., afterward told Fox News that such a floor vote can still be avoided.
But the 23-17 party-line vote on the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee marked a significant turn in lawmakers' 16-month investigation into the botched anti-gunrunning operation Fast and Furious. With the vote, Republicans on the committee signaled they had exhausted all other means to extract sought-after documents from the Justice Department -- though Democrats had insisted there was still an opportunity to sort out the mess without a contempt vote.
"We and the American people need answers sooner, not later," said Issa, R-Calif., chairman of the committee." (Read more)
- Lord, we pray for truth and justice to come forth regarding every aspect of Fast and Furious. May lies be exposed and Your laws and ways come forth. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
- "I will not turn away its punishment; Because they have despised the law of the Lord, and have not kept His commandments. Their lies lead them astray; Lies which their fathers followed." (Amos 2:4)
2. Fox News Publishes User's Manual for the Rules of a Contempt of Congress Finding
Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2012
Fox News has posted a primer of how the process of holding one in contempt of Congress works. You can read the 13 steps listed in this process by going here.
[Note the last step reads: If the individual is convicted the statute sets out the mandatory punishment: [a] a fine of up to $1,000 but no more and/or b] a jail sentence of up to one year, but no more.]
- Continue in prayer over this entire matter until justice prevails.
- "Pray without ceasing." (I Thess. 5:17)
3. Obama Exerts Executive Privilege in Showdown Over 'Fast & Furious' Docs - Fox News
URGENT: Obama Exerts Executive Privilege in Showdown Over 'Fast & Furious' Docs, as House Oversight and Government Reform Committee chaired by Rep. Darrell Issa takes up contempt of Congress vote against Holder.
- In the name of Jesus, we pray that the months of obstruction of justice in this matter will be brought to a quick end. In memory of the US border agent murdered by individuals who illegally obtained weapons from our own government, we ask that this administration's cover-up be blown apart, and documents containing the truth be fully revealed. May those involved be held accountable under the law. We pray that no executive order will supplant the truth, and we bind every attempt to allow those involved with the illegalities of Fast and Furious to get off the hook, in Jesus' name.
- " Though hand join in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished: but the seed of the righteous shall be delivered." (Proverbs 11:21)
4. Obama and Putin meet: 'The Two Men Barely Looked at Each Other' - CBS
CBS reports that when Obama and Vladimir Putin met with the press after their long private discussion, "The two men barely looked at each other. You could just feel, sort of, the tension between them. And the body language really represented how far apart the two leaders remain on the issue of Syria." "It is clear that ... Obama did not get an agreement from Russian president Putin [on Syria]," CBS reports. "And interestingly," CBS adds, "Apparently ... Obama got a bit of a lecture from Putin about some other failed transitions that are going on around the world."
- Heavenly Father, we have watched many rising tensions between the U.S., its allies, and world leaders, during the tenure of this administration. Now, Lord, Russia continues arming our enemies and tension is visible - we ask You to intervene by preventing Russia from accomplishing its wicked plans. Help President Obama to do what is pleasing to You. We bind our enemies in Jesus' name!
-" Give us help from trouble: for vain is the help of man." Psalms (60:11)(108:12)
5. Britain stops Russian ship carrying attack helicopters for Syria - The Telegraph
A Russian ship believed to be carrying helicopters and missiles for Syria has been effectively stopped in its tracks off the coast of Scotland after its insurance was cancelled at the behest of the British government. Its cargo of Mi25 helicopters - known as "flying tanks" - were originally sold to the Syrian government by Moscow, its major arms supplier. Under sanctions announced last year, the EU has banned not only exporting arms to Syria but also providing related services such as insurance. Moscow is continuing with a 2007 contract to provide more than 20 MiG-29 M2 fighter aircraft, according to the Americans.
- Heavenly Father, we thank You for the intervention which stopped this delivery, preventing its weapons from being made available for Mr. Assad to use against 'rebellious' Syrian towns. We ask that the nations will continue to cooperate in effective ways to stop Assad's slaughter of the Syrian people. We pray for many miraculous salvations during this time of terror in Syria, and for supernatural protection and provision for the saints of God. In Jesus' name we pray.
- The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. He will drive out your enemies before you, saying, 'Destroy them!' He is your shield and helper and your glorious sword." (Deuteronomy 33:27, 29b)
6. US warns Egypt's military over 'power grab' - Al Jazeera
Washington urges ruling military to transfer full power to civilian government as [Moslem] Brotherhood calls for protests.
- Heavenly Father, we ponder the current predicament in Egypt - the choice of a military authoritarian government, or the [Moslem] Brotherhood's candidate, who they say won the elections. Therefore we declare Your Lordship over Egypt. We pray for Your intervention to miraculously bring about righteous governing leadership in Egypt that will support Israel. God help Your church in Egypt as they are slaughtered and persecuted. We pray in Jesus' mighty name.
- " A prophecy against Egypt: See, the LORD rides on a swift cloud and is coming to Egypt. The idols of Egypt tremble before him, and the hearts of the Egyptians melt with fear. The officials of Zoan have become fools, the leaders of Memphis are deceived; the cornerstones of her peoples have led Egypt astray." (Isaiah 19:1,13)
7. Pentagon to salute gay troops - Washington Times
Last summer, gays in the military dared not admit their sexual orientation. This summer, the Pentagon will salute them, marking gay pride month just as it marks other celebrations honoring racial or ethnic groups. Officials said Thursday that they're planning the first-ever event to recognize gay and lesbian troops. They declined to give details about what the event will be, but officials said Defense Secretary Leon Panetta feels it's important to recognize the service of gays in the armed forces.
Read more.
- "As in the days of Noah, so shall the time of the coming of the Son of man be." Lord, unless You had warned us what to expect in the last days of human history, we could not have conceived that sodomy would be given its own honors and rewards in the United States of America. We repent of this terrible iniquity in high places, and we pray for complete repeal of these policies and those who promote them. Lord, because we love the soul of the homosexual as You do, we pray for a great deliverance from homosexuality across this nation in the power of Jesus' name!
- " For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images... Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator-who is forever praised. Amen." (Romans 1:21-25)
The Middle East in Focus
This week, for all the headlines cited below, please join us in proclaiming THIS DECREE:
"For You, Lord, are most high above all the earth; You are exalted far above all gods." (Psalm 97:9)
1. Christian groups call on UK to ban settlement goods - Jerusalem Post
Two Christian groups are calling on the British government to boycott produce that stems from Israeli settlements, claiming it would promote peace between Israelis and Palestinians.
2. Air Force strikes Gaza for seventh time in response to overnight rocket fire - Times of Israel
The air force struck Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip early Wednesday morning, the seventh airstrike carried out overnight in response to ongoing rocket attacks on Israel. Hamas claimed responsibility for the latest dramatic escalation from the Strip, which saw nine rockets fired since nightfall and 50 over the last two days.
3. Former Hamas man to 'tell truth' about Muhammad - Jerusalem Post
Ramallah-born Mosab Hassan Yousef has made enough enemies in the Palestinian territories to last a lifetime. The eldest son of Sheikh Hassan Yousef, one of the founders of Hamas, spent his early years as a Hamas activist and went through more than a few stints in Israeli prison.
4. 8 rockets from Gaza in recent hours; Hamas claims launches - Jerusalem Post
Palestinian terrorists in the Gaza Strip fired eight rockets into Israeli territory within the span of an hour Tuesday afternoon, with Hamas claiming responsibility for at least 10 launches in the past 24 hours. The IDF said aircraft carried out a targeted strike against the launching squad responsible for the latest barrage. At least one person was critically injured in that strike, according to Palestinian reports.
5. Hamas claims responsibility for rocket fire into Israel - Jerusalem Post
Hamas on Tuesday took responsibility for at least some of the rocket fire aimed at Israeli civilians Monday night, stating that it was responding to the killing of Palestinians in recent days. The IAF killed four Palestinian terrorists in the last 24 hours, at least two of whom were members of the Islamic Jihad terrorist group.
Obama Exerts Executive Privilege
Obama Blocks Release of Fast & Furious Documents
The standoff between the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee and Attorney General Eric Holder escalated dramatically today. In a last ditch effort to prevent the release of documents related to Operation Fast and Furious, [...] Obama asserted the right of executive privilege. In short, Holder now has the president's explicit permission to withhold the documents from Congress. Or, in fact, Obama has ordered Holder not to release them.
The administration is clearly desperate to shut down this investigation. Holder's meeting with Chairman Issa came to an abrupt end last night after Holder showed up with none of the requested documents and then demanded that Issa end his investigation in exchange for some of the documents. Issa refused.
Let's review the basics of this controversy. Obama officials, over the objections of field agents, allowed weapons purchased in the U.S. to fall into the hands of drug cartels in Mexico. A Border Patrol Agent is dead as a result of this decision. The Justice Department sent false information to Congress initially denying it had allowed guns to be transferred to Mexico. Congress is demanding answers.
In response to Obama's claim of executive privilege, Senator Charles Grassley, ranking Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee, fired back. He said:
"The assertion of executive privilege raises monumental questions. How can the president assert executive privilege if there was no White House involvement? How can the president exert executive privilege over documents he's supposedly never seen? Is something very big being hidden to go to this extreme?"
You would think, heading into the final months of the election, that the White House would want this issue to go away. But Obama's extraordinary intervention only guarantees it will become an even bigger story. Stay tuned! (Gary Bauer)
Update: House Hearing on Moslem Radicalization
LITTLE MOVEMENT IN LATEST RADICALIZATION HEARING
The fifth House Homeland Security Committee hearing on radicalization within the Muslim community ended Wednesday much as last year's inaugural hearing began: With committee Democrats criticizing the premise and diminishing the views of witnesses.
The hearing, "The American Muslim Response to Hearings on Radicalization within their Community," featured three Muslim American activists describing their first-hand experiences identifying and challenging extremist viewpoints and visceral reaction that often generates.
Those accounts were largely dismissed, however, as representatives stuck to talking points about the horrible harm they saw being caused by the very discussion. Ranking Democrat Bennie Thompson of Mississippi worried the hearings helped "provide a Congressional stamp of approval for groups that espouse anti-Muslim beliefs" and fuel anti-Muslim hate crimes. . .
For all the talk of fueling anti-Muslim sentiment, the hearings provide a chance to explain the distinction between the faith of Islam and the politics of Islamism, said Qanta Ahmed, a writer and physician who treats 9/11 first responders. One is a faith, she said. The other is political ideology. For all the rhetoric, nothing debated in the radicalization hearings has crimped her ability to practice her religion. "I am more free to worship here than in any Muslim majority nation," she said. "Our rights are not at risk. That gets lost in the debate."
King echoed that, saying "none of the nightmare scenarios anticipated by the media ever occurred. No religious war broke out. Not one bigoted word was uttered during the four investigative hearings we held." (IPT News) Read more.
- Pray for wisdom for Rep. Peter King as he leads this committee, for his thinking about radicalization is accurate. Also pray that those who are using political party and partisanship lift their heads, smell the threat, and join patriotic Americans in this fight against this threat. Ask the Lord to open the minds of Americans who are blind to truth and to dispel "catchy" slogans and invented phrases that are smoke screens to the truth.
- "And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the Lord of Hosts." (Malachi 3:11)
Youcef vote results
I am humbled and grateful to tell you that we achieved a victory yesterday against religious persecution. Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani has sacrificed so much for his faith and has refused his captors' calls for him to renounce Christ. With the help of your urging, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee unanimously passed a resolution of support for Pastor Youcef yesterday.
The ACLJ's Government Affairs team is now pressing Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid to ask the entire Senate to vote on Pastor Youcef's resolution.
Thank you for your prayers and your support in our fight for religious liberty.
Jay Sekulow
ACLJ Chief Counsel
Today's Legislative Focus
From The Madison Project
www.madisonproject.com
The Week of June 18-June 22
Fellow conservative patriots,
Both the House and Senate are back in session, but much of the political action is going to take place off the Hill. It is very likely that the Supreme Court will rule on either Arizona's immigration law or Obamacare sometime this Thursday, and the Senate will continue work on the farm bill.
For Liberty.
The Honorable Jim Ryun
Chairman of the Madison Project
Illegal Immigration
For an issue that has remained dormant for a while, there are two major developments on the immigration front that present conservatives with grave concerns. Last week, it was revealed that Senators Marco Rubio, Jon Kyl, and Kay Bailey Hutchison have already forged the draft language for a Dream Act amnesty bill. This would be a disaster for Republicans, not only because it's bad policy, but also because it would split the conservative coalition and offer Obama and the Democrats an election-year gift.
The very next day, Obama announced that he would circumvent Congress and grant administrative amnesty to those who would otherwise qualify for the Dream Act. Not only is the underlying policy a cynical way to set millions of illegals on a path towards citizenship in order to vote Democrat, but the process is unconstitutional. The laws on the books require the president to faithfully execute our immigration laws, yet Obama is deciding to ignore them in favor of a law (Dream Act) that never passed.
What conservatives must watch for:
- Republican reaction: Obama's illegal administrative amnesty provided Republicans an opportunity to unite, and assail a very unpopular policy of the administration. Unfortunately, not a single GOP leader in the House or Senate even issued a press release (a number of conservative rank-and-file members did). Worst of all was Romney's response. Implicit in his tardy statement was a complete blessing of the Dream Act. He didn't even raise the constitutional concerns inherent in Obama's circumventing of Congress. He only expressed concern that this would not satisfy a long-term solution. If you actually read his statement, he sounds like he's to the left of Obama. On Face the Nation, he refused to say whether he would overturn Obama's amnesty. We must demand that those in leadership come out strongly against this bad policy and unconstitutional power grab.
- Conservative counteroffensive: Congressman Steve King (R-IA) has said he'd look into a lawsuit against the administration for violating the separation of powers as prescribed in the Constitution. Also, Congressman Peter King (R-NY), Chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, promised to hold hearings on Obama's violation of our immigration laws.
Punchline:
It is an utter embarrassment to our party that there is no outcry from party leadership in response to Obama's violation of the law. Please call all your Republican senators and congressmen and request that they pursue a legislative solution defund any program that Obama's uses to administer his amnesty.
Update: NDP Ruling in Colorado
Governor Hickenlooper Has Approximately 48 Hours to Appeal
Colorado National Day of Prayer Ruling
Governor Hickenlooper has approx. 48 hours to file the appeal through the Attorney General's office. As of yesterday evening leaders in Colorado had not received confirmation that this has been done. If it happens as planned, the court can take up to 3 months to decide if they will review the case and it could take up to a year for a decision to be made. This case began in 2010, so it has taken 2 years to get to this point. They have a significant number of cases ahead of this one so it will take some time unfortunately. Please be praying for this very important situation.
Lea Carawan
Executive Director
Congressional Prayer Caucus Foundation
The Good News Corner
ISRAELI SCIENTISTS BUILD BETTER CHEMOTHERAPY SYSTEM
Israeli scientists have discovered a more efficient, "healthier" way to target cancer cells with chemotherapy. Professor Daniel Wreschner at Tel Aviv University's Department of Cell Research and Immunology is developing antibodies that bind solely to the cancer cells. The proteins produced by the immune system to fight infection target the cancer cells by binding to a protein called MUC1. The antibodies can be used as an efficient means of delivering medication by depositing a parcel of toxins directly into the center of the diseased cells, Wreschner found. (Arutz-7) [Reported by: Jerusalem-on-the-Line]
Worship with Us Today!
Hallelujah from Christ On The Mount Of Olives - Beethoven
"Hallelujah! unto God's Almighty Son.
Praise the Lord, ye bright angelic choirs,
In holy songs of joy.
Man, proclaim His grace and glory!
Hallelujah! unto God's Almighty Son.
Praise the Lord in holy songs of joy."
• The Middle East in Focus
• Obama Exerts Executive Privilege
• Update: House Hearing on Moslem Radicalization
• Youcef vote results
• Today's Legislative Focus
• Update: NDP Ruling in Colorado
• The Good News Corner
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
"Partners in Prayer for Our Nation"
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net
The Daily Brief Wednesday, June 20, 2012
"I will give you hidden treasures, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the Lord, the God of Israel, who summons you by name." (Isaiah 45:3)
The Daily Brief
Please note: The following four headlines . . . published yesterday, are shown with prayers included today.
1.a) Russian Commandos 'to Escort Assad Out of Syria' - Israel National News
Reports to this effect were cited by Voice of Israel radio's veteran "listener" Miki Gurdus, who specializes in listening to radio broadcasts on various frequencies worldwide. The Interfax news agency said Monday that two Russian navy ships are to sail to Syria to protect Russian citizens and its naval base there.
b.) Russia to send ships and marines to Syria - The Times of Israel
Interfax quoted an unidentified Russian navy official as saying that the Nikolai Filchenkov and Caesar Kunikov amphibious assault vessels will be heading to the Syrian port of Tartus, but didn't give a precise date. The official said the ships will carry an unspecified number of marines to protect Russians in Syria and evacuate materials from Tartus if necessary.
- Lord, we pray the leaders in Russia, their navy officials - and also leaders in Syria - come to realize the errors of their ways and come to repentance. We pray the Russian navy will not be used for evil. We pray for Your intervention in this news reported out of Israel. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
- Their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed innocent blood; Their thoughts are thoughts of iniquity; Wasting and destruction are in their paths. The way of peace they have not known, and there is not justice in their ways; They have made themselves crooked paths; Whoever takes that way shall not know peace. (Isaiah 59:7-8)
2. IDF: Iran Realizing Assad is Finished - Israel National News
IDF Spokesperson Brigadier General Yoav (Poly) Mordechai said Friday that Syria's allies Iran and Hizbullah are coming to realize that Bashar Assad's regime has "reached its end."
"Another week is almost over, during which the desperate effort by Iran and Hizbullah to help the Assad regime survive was evident," Brig. Gen. Mordechai wrote on his official Facebook page. "[Assad's allies] are beginning to understand that the end is just a matter of time and therefore I wouldn't be surprised if they are already planning for the day after."
- Lord, we call for justice and truth in the situation in Syria. We pray that evil and iniquity would not prevail. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
- No one calls for justice, Nor does any plead for truth. They trust in empty words and speak lies; They conceive evil and bring forth iniquity. (Isaiah 59:4)
3. Will raging power struggles inside the Vatican usher in radical change? - Word Press
The mood at the Vatican is apocalyptic. Pope Benedict XVI seems tired, and both unable and unwilling to seize the reins amid fierce infighting and scandal. While Vatican insiders jockey for power and speculate on his successor, Joseph Ratzinger has withdrawn to focus on his still-ambiguous legacy.
- Lord, we pray for the Vatican and the Catholic church. Lord, our hearts go out to those who have given their lives to serve You in the understanding that they have. Lord, we pray for true salvation wherever it is needed in the Catholic church. We ask that this turmoil be brought into truth and light, that there be repentance and salvation. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
- For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death. (2 Corinthians 7:10)
4. a) Indonesia's Mount Marapi volcano spews volcanic ash - Word Press
Mount Marapi in West Sumatra province spewed volcanic ash up to 500 meters into the sky on Sunday morning. "The volcano spewed volcanic ash for about 10 minutes starting at around 08.30 a.m.," Mubarak, who lived on the slope of the volcano, said on Sunday.
b.) 6.4 magnitude earthquake strikes off the east coast of Japan - Word Press
A 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Japan early on Monday, the U.S. Geological Survey said. The epicenter was 72 miles southeast of Morioka on Japan's Pacific coast, the USGS said, updating an initial report that said the quake was of magnitude 6.3 and 95 miles off the coast.
- Lord, we pray this shaking near Japan will cause Japan and others to awaken to Elohim who is the creator and Almighty God. We say "Awake, you who sleep, Arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light." We pray that Japan and others will take the steps naturally, and spiritually, that they may see the light. Lord, we also pray for mercy; that the earth shaking would not be devastating, but that it would bring people to life and not death. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
- Awake, you who sleep, Arise from the dead, And Christ will give you light. (Ephesians 5:14)
And now . . . today's headlines:
1. House panel backs contempt for Holder - Fox News
Issa says floor vote can still be avoided
A House panel voted Wednesday in favor of holding Attorney General Eric Holder in contempt of Congress, a move that inflamed partisan rancor on Capitol Hill and sets up the possibility of legal action against the attorney general himself.
Holder has not yet been formally held in contempt of Congress. The full House would still need to approve the resolution in order for that to happen -- Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif., afterward told Fox News that such a floor vote can still be avoided.
But the 23-17 party-line vote on the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee marked a significant turn in lawmakers' 16-month investigation into the botched anti-gunrunning operation Fast and Furious. With the vote, Republicans on the committee signaled they had exhausted all other means to extract sought-after documents from the Justice Department -- though Democrats had insisted there was still an opportunity to sort out the mess without a contempt vote.
"We and the American people need answers sooner, not later," said Issa, R-Calif., chairman of the committee." (Read more)
- Lord, we pray for truth and justice to come forth regarding every aspect of Fast and Furious. May lies be exposed and Your laws and ways come forth. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
- "I will not turn away its punishment; Because they have despised the law of the Lord, and have not kept His commandments. Their lies lead them astray; Lies which their fathers followed." (Amos 2:4)
2. Fox News Publishes User's Manual for the Rules of a Contempt of Congress Finding
Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2012
Fox News has posted a primer of how the process of holding one in contempt of Congress works. You can read the 13 steps listed in this process by going here.
[Note the last step reads: If the individual is convicted the statute sets out the mandatory punishment: [a] a fine of up to $1,000 but no more and/or b] a jail sentence of up to one year, but no more.]
- Continue in prayer over this entire matter until justice prevails.
- "Pray without ceasing." (I Thess. 5:17)
3. Obama Exerts Executive Privilege in Showdown Over 'Fast & Furious' Docs - Fox News
URGENT: Obama Exerts Executive Privilege in Showdown Over 'Fast & Furious' Docs, as House Oversight and Government Reform Committee chaired by Rep. Darrell Issa takes up contempt of Congress vote against Holder.
- In the name of Jesus, we pray that the months of obstruction of justice in this matter will be brought to a quick end. In memory of the US border agent murdered by individuals who illegally obtained weapons from our own government, we ask that this administration's cover-up be blown apart, and documents containing the truth be fully revealed. May those involved be held accountable under the law. We pray that no executive order will supplant the truth, and we bind every attempt to allow those involved with the illegalities of Fast and Furious to get off the hook, in Jesus' name.
- " Though hand join in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished: but the seed of the righteous shall be delivered." (Proverbs 11:21)
4. Obama and Putin meet: 'The Two Men Barely Looked at Each Other' - CBS
CBS reports that when Obama and Vladimir Putin met with the press after their long private discussion, "The two men barely looked at each other. You could just feel, sort of, the tension between them. And the body language really represented how far apart the two leaders remain on the issue of Syria." "It is clear that ... Obama did not get an agreement from Russian president Putin [on Syria]," CBS reports. "And interestingly," CBS adds, "Apparently ... Obama got a bit of a lecture from Putin about some other failed transitions that are going on around the world."
- Heavenly Father, we have watched many rising tensions between the U.S., its allies, and world leaders, during the tenure of this administration. Now, Lord, Russia continues arming our enemies and tension is visible - we ask You to intervene by preventing Russia from accomplishing its wicked plans. Help President Obama to do what is pleasing to You. We bind our enemies in Jesus' name!
-" Give us help from trouble: for vain is the help of man." Psalms (60:11)(108:12)
5. Britain stops Russian ship carrying attack helicopters for Syria - The Telegraph
A Russian ship believed to be carrying helicopters and missiles for Syria has been effectively stopped in its tracks off the coast of Scotland after its insurance was cancelled at the behest of the British government. Its cargo of Mi25 helicopters - known as "flying tanks" - were originally sold to the Syrian government by Moscow, its major arms supplier. Under sanctions announced last year, the EU has banned not only exporting arms to Syria but also providing related services such as insurance. Moscow is continuing with a 2007 contract to provide more than 20 MiG-29 M2 fighter aircraft, according to the Americans.
- Heavenly Father, we thank You for the intervention which stopped this delivery, preventing its weapons from being made available for Mr. Assad to use against 'rebellious' Syrian towns. We ask that the nations will continue to cooperate in effective ways to stop Assad's slaughter of the Syrian people. We pray for many miraculous salvations during this time of terror in Syria, and for supernatural protection and provision for the saints of God. In Jesus' name we pray.
- The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. He will drive out your enemies before you, saying, 'Destroy them!' He is your shield and helper and your glorious sword." (Deuteronomy 33:27, 29b)
6. US warns Egypt's military over 'power grab' - Al Jazeera
Washington urges ruling military to transfer full power to civilian government as [Moslem] Brotherhood calls for protests.
- Heavenly Father, we ponder the current predicament in Egypt - the choice of a military authoritarian government, or the [Moslem] Brotherhood's candidate, who they say won the elections. Therefore we declare Your Lordship over Egypt. We pray for Your intervention to miraculously bring about righteous governing leadership in Egypt that will support Israel. God help Your church in Egypt as they are slaughtered and persecuted. We pray in Jesus' mighty name.
- " A prophecy against Egypt: See, the LORD rides on a swift cloud and is coming to Egypt. The idols of Egypt tremble before him, and the hearts of the Egyptians melt with fear. The officials of Zoan have become fools, the leaders of Memphis are deceived; the cornerstones of her peoples have led Egypt astray." (Isaiah 19:1,13)
7. Pentagon to salute gay troops - Washington Times
Last summer, gays in the military dared not admit their sexual orientation. This summer, the Pentagon will salute them, marking gay pride month just as it marks other celebrations honoring racial or ethnic groups. Officials said Thursday that they're planning the first-ever event to recognize gay and lesbian troops. They declined to give details about what the event will be, but officials said Defense Secretary Leon Panetta feels it's important to recognize the service of gays in the armed forces.
Read more.
- "As in the days of Noah, so shall the time of the coming of the Son of man be." Lord, unless You had warned us what to expect in the last days of human history, we could not have conceived that sodomy would be given its own honors and rewards in the United States of America. We repent of this terrible iniquity in high places, and we pray for complete repeal of these policies and those who promote them. Lord, because we love the soul of the homosexual as You do, we pray for a great deliverance from homosexuality across this nation in the power of Jesus' name!
- " For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images... Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator-who is forever praised. Amen." (Romans 1:21-25)
The Middle East in Focus
This week, for all the headlines cited below, please join us in proclaiming THIS DECREE:
"For You, Lord, are most high above all the earth; You are exalted far above all gods." (Psalm 97:9)
1. Christian groups call on UK to ban settlement goods - Jerusalem Post
Two Christian groups are calling on the British government to boycott produce that stems from Israeli settlements, claiming it would promote peace between Israelis and Palestinians.
2. Air Force strikes Gaza for seventh time in response to overnight rocket fire - Times of Israel
The air force struck Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip early Wednesday morning, the seventh airstrike carried out overnight in response to ongoing rocket attacks on Israel. Hamas claimed responsibility for the latest dramatic escalation from the Strip, which saw nine rockets fired since nightfall and 50 over the last two days.
3. Former Hamas man to 'tell truth' about Muhammad - Jerusalem Post
Ramallah-born Mosab Hassan Yousef has made enough enemies in the Palestinian territories to last a lifetime. The eldest son of Sheikh Hassan Yousef, one of the founders of Hamas, spent his early years as a Hamas activist and went through more than a few stints in Israeli prison.
4. 8 rockets from Gaza in recent hours; Hamas claims launches - Jerusalem Post
Palestinian terrorists in the Gaza Strip fired eight rockets into Israeli territory within the span of an hour Tuesday afternoon, with Hamas claiming responsibility for at least 10 launches in the past 24 hours. The IDF said aircraft carried out a targeted strike against the launching squad responsible for the latest barrage. At least one person was critically injured in that strike, according to Palestinian reports.
5. Hamas claims responsibility for rocket fire into Israel - Jerusalem Post
Hamas on Tuesday took responsibility for at least some of the rocket fire aimed at Israeli civilians Monday night, stating that it was responding to the killing of Palestinians in recent days. The IAF killed four Palestinian terrorists in the last 24 hours, at least two of whom were members of the Islamic Jihad terrorist group.
Obama Exerts Executive Privilege
Obama Blocks Release of Fast & Furious Documents
The standoff between the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee and Attorney General Eric Holder escalated dramatically today. In a last ditch effort to prevent the release of documents related to Operation Fast and Furious, [...] Obama asserted the right of executive privilege. In short, Holder now has the president's explicit permission to withhold the documents from Congress. Or, in fact, Obama has ordered Holder not to release them.
The administration is clearly desperate to shut down this investigation. Holder's meeting with Chairman Issa came to an abrupt end last night after Holder showed up with none of the requested documents and then demanded that Issa end his investigation in exchange for some of the documents. Issa refused.
Let's review the basics of this controversy. Obama officials, over the objections of field agents, allowed weapons purchased in the U.S. to fall into the hands of drug cartels in Mexico. A Border Patrol Agent is dead as a result of this decision. The Justice Department sent false information to Congress initially denying it had allowed guns to be transferred to Mexico. Congress is demanding answers.
In response to Obama's claim of executive privilege, Senator Charles Grassley, ranking Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee, fired back. He said:
"The assertion of executive privilege raises monumental questions. How can the president assert executive privilege if there was no White House involvement? How can the president exert executive privilege over documents he's supposedly never seen? Is something very big being hidden to go to this extreme?"
You would think, heading into the final months of the election, that the White House would want this issue to go away. But Obama's extraordinary intervention only guarantees it will become an even bigger story. Stay tuned! (Gary Bauer)
Update: House Hearing on Moslem Radicalization
LITTLE MOVEMENT IN LATEST RADICALIZATION HEARING
The fifth House Homeland Security Committee hearing on radicalization within the Muslim community ended Wednesday much as last year's inaugural hearing began: With committee Democrats criticizing the premise and diminishing the views of witnesses.
The hearing, "The American Muslim Response to Hearings on Radicalization within their Community," featured three Muslim American activists describing their first-hand experiences identifying and challenging extremist viewpoints and visceral reaction that often generates.
Those accounts were largely dismissed, however, as representatives stuck to talking points about the horrible harm they saw being caused by the very discussion. Ranking Democrat Bennie Thompson of Mississippi worried the hearings helped "provide a Congressional stamp of approval for groups that espouse anti-Muslim beliefs" and fuel anti-Muslim hate crimes. . .
For all the talk of fueling anti-Muslim sentiment, the hearings provide a chance to explain the distinction between the faith of Islam and the politics of Islamism, said Qanta Ahmed, a writer and physician who treats 9/11 first responders. One is a faith, she said. The other is political ideology. For all the rhetoric, nothing debated in the radicalization hearings has crimped her ability to practice her religion. "I am more free to worship here than in any Muslim majority nation," she said. "Our rights are not at risk. That gets lost in the debate."
King echoed that, saying "none of the nightmare scenarios anticipated by the media ever occurred. No religious war broke out. Not one bigoted word was uttered during the four investigative hearings we held." (IPT News) Read more.
- Pray for wisdom for Rep. Peter King as he leads this committee, for his thinking about radicalization is accurate. Also pray that those who are using political party and partisanship lift their heads, smell the threat, and join patriotic Americans in this fight against this threat. Ask the Lord to open the minds of Americans who are blind to truth and to dispel "catchy" slogans and invented phrases that are smoke screens to the truth.
- "And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the Lord of Hosts." (Malachi 3:11)
Youcef vote results
I am humbled and grateful to tell you that we achieved a victory yesterday against religious persecution. Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani has sacrificed so much for his faith and has refused his captors' calls for him to renounce Christ. With the help of your urging, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee unanimously passed a resolution of support for Pastor Youcef yesterday.
The ACLJ's Government Affairs team is now pressing Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid to ask the entire Senate to vote on Pastor Youcef's resolution.
Thank you for your prayers and your support in our fight for religious liberty.
Jay Sekulow
ACLJ Chief Counsel
Today's Legislative Focus
From The Madison Project
www.madisonproject.com
The Week of June 18-June 22
Fellow conservative patriots,
Both the House and Senate are back in session, but much of the political action is going to take place off the Hill. It is very likely that the Supreme Court will rule on either Arizona's immigration law or Obamacare sometime this Thursday, and the Senate will continue work on the farm bill.
For Liberty.
The Honorable Jim Ryun
Chairman of the Madison Project
Illegal Immigration
For an issue that has remained dormant for a while, there are two major developments on the immigration front that present conservatives with grave concerns. Last week, it was revealed that Senators Marco Rubio, Jon Kyl, and Kay Bailey Hutchison have already forged the draft language for a Dream Act amnesty bill. This would be a disaster for Republicans, not only because it's bad policy, but also because it would split the conservative coalition and offer Obama and the Democrats an election-year gift.
The very next day, Obama announced that he would circumvent Congress and grant administrative amnesty to those who would otherwise qualify for the Dream Act. Not only is the underlying policy a cynical way to set millions of illegals on a path towards citizenship in order to vote Democrat, but the process is unconstitutional. The laws on the books require the president to faithfully execute our immigration laws, yet Obama is deciding to ignore them in favor of a law (Dream Act) that never passed.
What conservatives must watch for:
- Republican reaction: Obama's illegal administrative amnesty provided Republicans an opportunity to unite, and assail a very unpopular policy of the administration. Unfortunately, not a single GOP leader in the House or Senate even issued a press release (a number of conservative rank-and-file members did). Worst of all was Romney's response. Implicit in his tardy statement was a complete blessing of the Dream Act. He didn't even raise the constitutional concerns inherent in Obama's circumventing of Congress. He only expressed concern that this would not satisfy a long-term solution. If you actually read his statement, he sounds like he's to the left of Obama. On Face the Nation, he refused to say whether he would overturn Obama's amnesty. We must demand that those in leadership come out strongly against this bad policy and unconstitutional power grab.
- Conservative counteroffensive: Congressman Steve King (R-IA) has said he'd look into a lawsuit against the administration for violating the separation of powers as prescribed in the Constitution. Also, Congressman Peter King (R-NY), Chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, promised to hold hearings on Obama's violation of our immigration laws.
Punchline:
It is an utter embarrassment to our party that there is no outcry from party leadership in response to Obama's violation of the law. Please call all your Republican senators and congressmen and request that they pursue a legislative solution defund any program that Obama's uses to administer his amnesty.
Update: NDP Ruling in Colorado
Governor Hickenlooper Has Approximately 48 Hours to Appeal
Colorado National Day of Prayer Ruling
Governor Hickenlooper has approx. 48 hours to file the appeal through the Attorney General's office. As of yesterday evening leaders in Colorado had not received confirmation that this has been done. If it happens as planned, the court can take up to 3 months to decide if they will review the case and it could take up to a year for a decision to be made. This case began in 2010, so it has taken 2 years to get to this point. They have a significant number of cases ahead of this one so it will take some time unfortunately. Please be praying for this very important situation.
Lea Carawan
Executive Director
Congressional Prayer Caucus Foundation
The Good News Corner
ISRAELI SCIENTISTS BUILD BETTER CHEMOTHERAPY SYSTEM
Israeli scientists have discovered a more efficient, "healthier" way to target cancer cells with chemotherapy. Professor Daniel Wreschner at Tel Aviv University's Department of Cell Research and Immunology is developing antibodies that bind solely to the cancer cells. The proteins produced by the immune system to fight infection target the cancer cells by binding to a protein called MUC1. The antibodies can be used as an efficient means of delivering medication by depositing a parcel of toxins directly into the center of the diseased cells, Wreschner found. (Arutz-7) [Reported by: Jerusalem-on-the-Line]
Worship with Us Today!
Hallelujah from Christ On The Mount Of Olives - Beethoven
"Hallelujah! unto God's Almighty Son.
Praise the Lord, ye bright angelic choirs,
In holy songs of joy.
Man, proclaim His grace and glory!
Hallelujah! unto God's Almighty Son.
Praise the Lord in holy songs of joy."
