May we recommend?
This week, with so much news to cover for prayer, may we recommend Hebrew Nation News as another resource for prayer? You may find their excellent report by going here. Thank you!
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net
On Capitol Hill This Week Volume XX, Number 12a
INTERNATIONAL ISSUES
April 8 - 12, 2013
"And now, Lord, take note of their threats, and grant that Your bond-servants may speak Your word with all confidence . . ." (Acts 4:29)
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News from Israel
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News from Israel
- ISRAEL BRACES FOR MASSIVE CYBER-ATTACK
- INTRODUCING THE KERRY INITIATIVE: A SECRET NEW MIDEAST PEACE PLAN
- ABBAS WANTS NETANYAHU TO PRESENT A MAP OF 'PALESTINE'
- PALESTINIANS KICK OFF JERUSALEM BID BY CEDING HOLY SITES
- ASSAD: ERDOGAN DESTROYING SYRIA BY RECONCILING WITH ISRAEL
- ONCE AGAIN, ISRAEL BECOMES A TARGET
- IDF PREPARES HAIFA HOSPITAL FOR CHEMICAL ATTACK SCENARIO
- MARMARA PASSENGER: I'LL DONATE COMPENSATION TO HAMAS
- PALESTINIAN INMATES TREATED BETTER IN ISRAEL THAN IN PA, ISRAEL SAYS
1. ISRAEL BRACES FOR MASSIVE CYBER-ATTACK
The hacktivist group Anonymous plans to launch a massive cyber-attack against Israel, beginning Sunday and continuing through Monday, coinciding with the Jewish state's observance of Holocaust Memorial Day. Several other anti-Israel hactivist groups have joined the #OpIsrael effort, whose goal is to "launch a coordinated, massive cyber-attack on Israeli targets with the intent of erasing Israel from the Internet."
On Wednesday, about 15,000 Israeli Facebook accounts were hacked, Israel Hayom reported. According to the report, a virus unleashed through a malicious IP address allowed the virus to attack other computers through theirs.
It's not the first time the pro-Palestinian group has targeted Israel. During last November's military incursion in the Gaza Strip to stop Palestinian rocket attacks, the group launched a major offensive against Israeli government websites, banks, businesses credit card companies, and private websites.
Read article:
- O Abba Father, this article states the motivation for these planned vicious computer internet attacks are driven by anti-Israel beliefs. Lord, we come before You to ask that these evil actions will fall to the ground and shatter with effects, that their code will be full of defects causing endless loops so that their servers will crash and not function. Lord, we ask You to have mercy on Israel by rising up to confront these attackers, filling them with a mighty fear of You, in Jesus' Name, Amen and Amen.
- But He said, 'The things which are impossible with men are possible with God'. (Luke 18:27)
2. INTRODUCING THE KERRY INITIATIVE: A SECRET NEW MIDEAST PEACE PLAN
If, as many suspect, US President Barack Obama came on his first presidential visit to Israel bearing a concealed peace plan, it seems that he hid it in the most visible place possible: in the tall, patrician figure of his new secretary of state. Behind the pomp of a state visit and much giddy joking about the "bromance" blossoming - at least before the cameras - between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Obama, serious talk in Jerusalem at the end of the first day of this much touted summit focused on a possible "Kerry initiative" to re-start stagnant peace talks between Israel and the Palestinian Authority.
If four rockets launched from Gaza into Israel this morning are any indication, Kerry would face a major uphill effort. "Kerry very much wants to be active in this area. Obama is cautious about using his presidential political capital, but Kerry is eager to act - which is why he arrived before Obama and will leave after he goes," said Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Michael Herzog, a former Israel army intelligence officer who is an international fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy.
Late on Wednesday, the White House announced that Secretary of State John Kerry would return to Jerusalem for further discussions with Netanyahu on Saturday, after the final leg of the presidential visit, in Amman, Jordan.
(Global Post)
Read article:
- Lord, we ask that You expose all that is hidden, so that every person and nation may see what is being asked and planned. We ask that You tear down all evil schemes and cast these plots into chaos, protecting Your special land and people. In Jesus' Name we pray, Amen and Amen.
- (For Israel) Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.(Isaiah 41:10)
3. ABBAS WANTS NETANYAHU TO PRESENT A MAP OF 'PALESTINE'
Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas has demanded that Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu present a map for a future Palestinian state before any peace talks can resume, an aide told AFP on Friday. Abbas "wants to know, through a map to be presented by Benjamin Netanyahu to (U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry), what the prime minister's view of a two-state solution would be, especially the borders," political adviser Nimr Hammad told AFP. The remarks came just days ahead of a visit by Kerry, who will hold fortnightly meetings with Israeli and PA leaders as he tries to revive the stalled peace process.
Abbas has insisted that participation in new talks be conditioned on using the borders that existed before the 1967 Six Day War as the basis for negotiating future borders. Abbas also repeated to Barack Obama, on his first visit to the region as U.S. president in March, that a halt to Israeli construction in Judea, Samaria, and eastern Jerusalem was a precondition for any peace negotiations. Expectations are growing that the U.S. administration is ready to resume some kind of shuttle diplomacy to rekindle the peace process, which has stalled since 2010.
Unconfirmed reports following that visit indicated that Kerry is planning on offering Israel and the PA an outline which would see Israel releasing terrorists from its prisons and transferring areas from Area B, which is under joint PA-Israeli control under the Oslo Accords, to Area A which is under full PA control.
Read article:
- Heavenly Father, anyone who has knowledge of what the pre-1967 borders of Israel were, know that these borders do not allow Israel to be safe, and are not acceptable. Israel is Your land, Lord, and other nations should not claim it as their own. We ask You, Lord, to stop this arrogance and false claims, in Jesus' Name, Amen and Amen.
- Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. (Galatians 6:7)
4. PALESTINIANS KICK OFF JERUSALEM BID BY CEDING HOLY SITES CUSTODIANSHIP TO JORDAN'S KING
A historic agreement signed in Amman Sunday, March 31, between Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas and Jordan's King Abdullah II takes a new stand on Jerusalem - one of the core issues subject to negotiation with Israel - by accepting the king as Custodian of the city's Holy Sites. The Palestinians agreed that Abdullah "will oversee and manage the Waqf (Muslim religious authority) in Jerusalem" and represent the interests of the Holy Sites "in relevant international forums - through feasible legal means."
Where the Palestinian (Wafa) and Jordanian (Petra) versions of the same agreement differ is over the definition of "Palestinian sovereignty."
debkafile: However, by this document, the Palestinian leader and the king have laid the foundation for a mixed Arab-Palestinian-Israeli framework for managing the shrines holy to Jews (who are not mentioned), Muslims and Christians in Jerusalem. It has opened the door to what many will be perceive as a proposal to internationalize Jerusalem's sanctuaries, a status affirmed but never honored from 1948 to 1967. This foundation will not only raise strong Israeli objections but also be challenged by many Palestinians and therefore will have to last a long and tortuous course to survive.
Its importance lies in that the Palestinian Authority has taken the historically momentous step of ceding to the Hashemite throne the custodianship - religious, political, legal, and security - of the Muslim shrines on Temple Mount with authority over the Palestinian Waqf.
The Hashemite House comes out of the accord with Palestinian recognition for the first time as the Custodian of the Holy Places of Jerusalem, especially the Mosque of al Aqsa, a title which parallels the Saudi king's traditional title as Guardian of the Holy Places to Islam in Mecca and Medina.
The degree of US Secretary of State John Kerry's involvement in Jordanian-Palestinian accord is still to be determined and also whether Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu and Justice Minister Tzipi Livni (in charge of negotiations with the Palestinians) were privy to its substance.
Read article:
- Lord, this is truly amazing. These two groups are dividing up and assigning 'ownership' and supervision of lands and sacred sites to themselves when it is NOT their land to divide. So much of the world acts like they can just take whatever they want and decide whatever they want, regardless of what the truth is! Your Word is clear, Lord, so please raise up Your right hand and arm, confronting them with Your ownership of these lands and sites, in Jesus' Name, Amen and Amen.
- They have taken crafty counsel against Your people, and consulted together against Your sheltered ones. They have said, 'Come, and let us cut them off from being a nation, that the name of Israel may be remembered no more'. (Psalm 83:3-4)
5. ASSAD: ERDOGAN DESTROYING SYRIA BY RECONCILING WITH ISRAEL
Syria's President charged on Friday that the improvement in the relations between Turkey and Israel, following Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu's apology for the deaths of Turks on the Mavi Marmara, is proof that Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan is trying to destroy Syria. "We cannot let stupid leaders destroy the relationship with Turkey," President Bashar Al-Assad attacked in the interview, which aired on Turkey's Ulusal TV. The Syrian president claimed that Turkey's reconciliation with Israel is a "small part of Erdogan's destruction of Syria." "Because of the situation in Syria, Israel and Turkey united suddenly, this is proof," said Assad, adding, "Erdogan walked shoulder to shoulder with Israel. Our goal should be to maintain the relationship [between Syria and Turkey], not to destroy it."
Assad also attacked the Turkish prime minister over the civil war taking place in his country, saying, "Erdogan is taking advantage of what is happening in the region for his political future. He changed his attitude toward us and began to help terrorists. This is why the relationship with Turkey was destroyed." In the interview, Assad also warned that if the Syrian government falls, other countries in the region could suffer.
Asked whether he would consider giving up power for the sake of stability, Assad said that the wishes of other countries do not affect him. "I am an elected leader of the Syrian people," he said. "Whether I am a president is determined by the Syrian people, not by foreign states." He singled out the United States as a nation that has "massacred millions" in Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya. In an excerpt of Friday's interview published earlier this week, Assad accused Erdogan of not having said "a single word of truth" about Syria's conflict.
Read article:
- Sadly, Lord, this man named Assad is indirectly looking to blame Israel for the chaos in his nation of Syria. He is accusing Turkey's leader for betraying him and names the US wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to justify the violence done and huge number of deaths in his own nation. Lord, direct us how to pray Your will for this nation and it's leader Assad's accusations, in Jesus' Name, Amen and Amen.
- Whoever rewards evil for good, evil will not depart from his house. (Proverbs 17:13) You who fear the Lord, trust in the Lord. He is their help and their shield. (Psalm 115:11)
6. ONCE AGAIN, ISRAEL BECOMES A TARGET
As children in Israel's western Negev headed out to school after the Passover holiday, Palestinian terrorists in Gaza fired two Kassam rockets in their direction. Residents heard explosions after the Code Red siren was sounded around 7:30 this morning (April 3, 2013) in Sderot and Sha'ar Hanegev. No injuries were reported.
Schools were being prepared for the return of the students on Tuesday [April 2] when a Kassam rocket was discovered at Margalit's Preschool in Sderot. It is believe to have been one of the rockets fired just as Passover was beginning, the week of March 20, 2013. It was a blessing that the children were not attending school when the rocket landed.
Yesterday saw more rocket fire from Gaza. On Tuesday, three mortars were fired from Gaza toward Israel. One shell landed in the Eshkol Regional Council, without causing injury or damage, according to a report by Ynetnews.
In a response to Tuesday's rocket fire, the Israeli Air Force struck two terror targets in the Hamas-ruled territory during the night. This is the first response since Operation Pillar of Defense in November 2012. Ynetnews reports, "Israel estimates that rogue terror groups in Gaza are behind the latest attacks on Israel, but the Jewish state continues to hold Hamas responsible for all attacks emanating from the coastal enclave.
"Palestinian sources claimed no one was injured in the IAF strikes. Moreover, the source stated that all security targets and military installations in the Gaza Strip were evacuated."
While rocket fire has commenced once again in the Negev, tensions in northern Israel are also heating up. Near Tel Fares, which is on the Israeli side of the border between Syria and Israel in the Golan Heights, a mortar exploded Tuesday. Not too long after the rocket fire, an IDF patrol was hit with small arms fire.
Israel responded with tanks that fired across the border and achieved a direct hit. Information on the fire exchange was reported by the Israel Defense Forces to the UN.
According to Ynetnews, Defense Minister Moshe Ya'alon said "Israel holds Hamas responsible for everything that is fired from Gaza. We will not in any way allow a routine of rocket fire steadily dripping [sic] on our civilians and soldiers. In the Golan Heights as well, our policy is that we have no intention of ignoring fire from Syria toward Israeli territory, incidental or not, and we will respond with a strike," he added.
Source By Leslie McLinden, BFP Staff Writer, April 3, 2013) [Reported by BFP: Bridges for Peace]
- Pray that God would put a hedge of angels around Israel to protect it. Pray that the enemies of Israel will have their minds turned from pursuing Israel's destruction.
- Arise, O God, plead Your own cause; remember how the foolish man reproaches You daily. Do not forget the voice of Your enemies; the tumult of those who rise up against You increases continually. (Psalm 74:22-23)
7. IDF PREPARES HAIFA HOSPITAL FOR CHEMICAL ATTACK SCENARIO
The Israel Defense Forces [IDF] Home Front Command conducted a dual exercise in Haifa last month as part of wide-ranging preparations in the region for a chemical attack scenario. The exercise included evacuating the upper floors of the Bnai Zion Medical Center and setting up an emergency testing and treatment center at a nearby location. The concurrent drills involved cooperation between Home Front Command forces, local government and Health Ministry officials, and emergency services. IDF emergency medical units practiced evacuating the upper floors of the Bnai Zion Medical Center and transferring patients to lower, protected floors. Also, the hospital's medical staff received training for the treatment of casualties from a chemical assault.
In a simultaneous drill, the Home Front Command worked together with the Haifa municipality and Health Ministry officials to establish an emergency treatment center (ETC). "The ETC provides a response not just for military officials but also for the local government from a logistical perspective, and for psychiatrists and social workers from the Ministry of Health," explained Maj. Eyal Chiat, Medical Officer for the Haifa District. "The whole drill involved emergency services and the police assisted in blocking the roads, Magen David Adom [assisted] in evacuating casualties, and firefighters in supplying water," he added.
The IDF is keeping a close eye on Syria, where the ongoing conflict has led to a deterioration of stability along the border with Israel. According to the Head of the Intelligence Directorate Maj. Gen. Aviv Kochavi, several Syrian terror groups have sprouted since the beginning of the conflict and may have acquired chemical weapons. The IDF maintains constant vigilance over all of Israel's borders and is prepared to protect its citizens in every possible eventuality.
Source (By Dana Petrov, Israel Defense Forces, April 2, 2013) [Reported by BFP: Bridges for Peace]
Read article:
- Thank the Lord that the IDF is preparing for any scenario that might come against Israel. Pray that much is learned from this drill that can be used in case of a future attack.
- For I will not trust in my bow, nor shall my sword save me. But You have saved us from our enemies, and have put to shame those who hated us. In God we boast all day long, and praise Your name forever. (Psalm 44:6-8)
8. MARMARA PASSENGER: I'LL DONATE COMPENSATION TO HAMAS
A Turkish citizen who was a passenger on the Mavi Marmara flotilla announced Wednesday [April 3] that he will donate any compensation from Israel to Hamas and Islamic Jihad. Mehmet Tunc declared that he would not touch even "one Turkish lira." Tunc told reporters in Istanbul that nine of his friends had been "martyred" by the Israeli forces when Israeli Defense Forces [IDF] soldiers acted "against international law." Last month Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu apologized to Erdogan [Turkish prime minister] over the deaths of nine Turkish citizens in the IDF raid on the Gaza-bound Marmara ship.
The sides agreed to normalize relations and halt legal proceedings against IDF commanders and soldiers. It was also agreed that Israel would transfer funds to a humanitarian fund that would compensate the victims' families.
Israel and Turkey are in disagreement over the compensation the Jewish state is to pay Turkey. Israel wants to pay a total of [US] $1 million to the families, while Turkey is demanding that each family receive [US] $1 million.
Source (By Roi Kais, Ynetnews, April 3, 2013) [Reported by BFP: Bridges for Peace]
Read article:
- Pray that the terror groups, Islamic Jihad and Hamas, will not be glorified by Israel trying to make amends over the Marmara incident. Pray that Israel's actions will not turn against them.
- Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me! For my soul trusts in You; and in the shadow of Your wings I will make my refuge, until these calamities have passed by.(Psalm 57:1)
9. PALESTINIAN INMATES TREATED BETTER IN ISRAEL THAN IN PA, ISRAEL SAYS
Palestinians who are imprisoned in Israel have access to excellent medical care, and are allowed visits by International Committee of the Red Cross officials. Prisoners in Palestinian Authority prisons do not enjoy such conditions," the Prime Minister's Office said on Tuesday via Twitter, rebuffing accusations that a deceased prisoner had been denied proper treatment for a terminal condition. "Unfortunately, the Palestinian Authority seeks to exploit the death of the prisoner, who died from cancer, and bring about an escalation; this is hypocritical on its part," read the statement, which was posted in Arabic by the PMO's spokesman to the Arab media, Ofir Gendelman.
Maysara Abu Hamdiyeh, 64, had been sentenced to life in prison for his part in an unsuccessful 2002 plot to bomb a cafe in Jerusalem. He was convicted of attempted murder, membership in a terrorism organization and the illegal possession of weapons. After being diagnosed with terminal cancer in February, he was hospitalized in the Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba, where he died on Tuesday morning. Israel Prison Service spokeswoman Sivan Weizman said the prison service had petitioned to have Hamdiyeh released on medical grounds last week, but the appeal was still pending when he died. According to Army Radio, a Palestinian physician will be allowed to attend Abu Hamdiyeh's autopsy on Wednesday.
News of Abu Hamdiyeh's death sparked prison riots in the Eshel, Ramon and Nafha correction facilities on Tuesday. According to the prison service, the rioters, Palestinian inmates who have been incarcerated due to their involvement in terrorism, caused "unrest and disturbances," banging on cell doors and throwing objects at the guards. Six prison wardens and three prisoners suffered from minor injuries following their exposure to tear gas, which had been used as part of the efforts to quell the riots.
The Palestinian Authority blamed the Israeli government for Abu Hamdiyeh's death on Tuesday. Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas said Israel refused to have him released despite a Palestinian Authority request. "Israel continues to systematically poison and kill the Palestinian prisoners," Nabil Abu Rudeina, spokesman for Abbas, said in a statement. Senior officials in Ramallah said the Palestinian Authority should petition the International Court of Justice at The Hague over the treatment of prisoners in Israel.
Read article:
- Lord, let the truth arise! Let the nations be fully confronted with all the lies of the plotted evilness being made by these terrorist prisoners. Let all they have done and continue to do be exposed. Protect Your people, Lord, against the violence incited by these lies, in Jesus' Name, Amen and Amen.
- The violence of the wicked will destroy them, because they refuse to do justice. (Proverbs 21:7)
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North Korean Church Asks for Prayers
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North Korean church leaders ask for prayers
North Korean church leaders are asking Christians worldwide to pray for their country amid increased war threats and combat preparation by North Korean military officials.
Prayer for beleaguered believers in North Korea is more important than ever, says Open Doors, an organisation that supports persecuted Christians in 60 countries.
According to underground Christians, there is a war-like atmosphere in the country.
"We are to meet the decisive battle with a gun in one hand and a hammer in the other," summarised a Christian leader about the message the North Korean people recently received from the "high command".
"The military army, navy, air force troops, strategic rocket troops, the red guards and the red youth guards are already in combat mode. Urgent meetings are being held everywhere, regardless if it is day or night. At those meetings, officials make decisions on what needs to happen in case war breaks out and everyone, including women, needs to be combat ready."
According to Open Doors sources, many cars on the roads are covered with camouflage nets. Also, soldiers are wearing hats with camouflage dried branches and carry guns. North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un released a statement to his people, saying that "If war breaks out because of the actions of the US and puppet South Korean's unpardonable behavior, they will end up with a disgraceful downfall, and our people will greet a brilliant new day of reunification. The day has come to show off the power of 'Military First' and our great nation to the whole world."
However, Christians and other citizens fear war and its consequences.
"Many people are in a hurry to purchase emergency food supplies and daily goods just in case. The prices of goods, including food, are skyrocketing," tells one believer in North Korea.
North Korean Christians are grateful for their fellow believers in the West and request their urgent prayers.
"I would like to thank the many brothers and sisters around the world for their continuous love and support," says the Christian believer. "We know that our journey will not be an easy one, but we are sure that our faith, desperate hope and passionate desire will some day bear many fruit. No matter how difficult life is for us, we never blame or complain about our circumstances. God has promised us in the Bible that if we seek His Kingdom first, all other things will be given to us as well. Please pray for us."
Jerry Dykstra, a spokesman for Open Doors USA, adds: "Beneath the surface of the all the rhetoric of war and the possible launch of nuclear missiles are the suffering and persecution of the estimated 200,000 to 400,000 Christians in North Korea. Also, an estimated 60,000 to 80,000 Christians are in harsh political prison camps. The government has been the No. 1 persecutor of Christians for 11 years in a row, according to the Open Doors 2013 World Watch List.
"We must respond now to the Christian leaders' request to pray for them.
- Pray for Kim Jong-Un; that God will work in his heart and he will pursue peace and not war.
- Pray for wisdom for leaders in the United States, South Korea and China.
- Pray for Christians who are put in even more danger due to war preparations.
- Pray families will find food to feed their families.
- Finally, pray that no matter what happens Christians will remain strong in their faith."
(Christian Today) Read more.
- "The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."
(James 5:16)
> > > MORE NEWS FROM NORTH KOREA
For more breaking news from North Korea, we ask you to please review our Daily Briefs from last week (April 2 - 5), and also to visit this week's excellent edition of the Hebrew Nation News by going here. Thank you.
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ALERT #1 - VENEZUELA
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ALERT #1 - VENEZUELA FACING NEW ELECTIONS NEXT WEEK
Below please find several "snapshots" of the current situation in Venezuela. We ask your prayers that a new leader will reign in that nation, bringing true freedom to the beleaguered people of Venezuela. Thank you.
1. Opposition holds big rally in Venezuelan capital
"Today the streets of Caracas are full of happiness and hope, confirming what will happen next Sunday," Capriles, the 40-year-old governor of Miranda state, told the crowd.
Capriles faces acting President Nicolas Maduro, who has vowed to continue the hard-line socialism of his late boss, Hugo Chavez, if he wins the April 14 election. Maduro held a huge rally on Sunday in rural Apure state, on the Colombian border.
More often seen filled with the red flags and T-shirts of Chavez's loyal supporters, the capital's historic Bolivar Avenue was packed with opposition supporters decked out in the blue, yellow and red of Capriles' campaign.
"We're winning this process . . . April 15 will be a day of peace and reconciliation between all Venezuelans," Capriles said, before addressing supporters of Maduro's government directly.
"Those who put on a red shirt today, I just ask you: open your eyes! I'll work hard, I'll shed skin, to win your trust."
[To read full article, go here.]
[To read more about the life of opposition candidate Henrique Capriles Radonski, go here. Note: Capriles' mother is Jewish!]
2. Looking back: Chavez Curses Israel; Illness Follows One Year Later
Many people around the world associate Venezuela's deceased President, Hugo Chavez's death, with his very public and vocal cursing of the Nation of Israel on June 7 of 2010.
"I take advantage of condemning [Israel] once again. From the depths of my soul and my innards, to the State of Israel, be cursed, State of Israel! Be cursed. [unanimous, thunderous applause, shouting and cheering] Terrorist and assassin! [continued unanimous thunderous applause and cheering ] Long live the Palestinian people!"
Exactly one year later, the curse that left his mouth, boomeranged and he was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, precisely in the "depths of his soul and his innards".
While he feared absolutely nothing but death itself, as was shown on the news when he was heard on his deathbed desperately mumbling, "Don't let me die. I don't want to die . . .", despite the messengers that God sent to him to implore him to repent of his sinful words, a public word of repentance never left his lips, and he died two years after pronouncing the curse.
3. Life in Venezuela Today
The Venezuelan President, Hugo Chavez Frias is dead.
In his place he left Nicolas Maduro, a hard line Communist bus driver whom Chavez had mentored. Maduro arrogantly has no doubt whatsoever that he is going to win the election, no matter what it takes- fraud or blood. In the meantime, the country is on a powder keg as they await the elections on the 15th of this month. Many are fearing bloodshed and violence, because the once beautiful and democratic country of Venezuela is not about to put up with another ruthless, controlling, executive-order-signing dictator.
It is important to make known that Hugo Chavez had won the hearts of the poor and the illiterate by playing on their emotions and making them victims of racism (which had never preexisted) and injustice, and then favoring them with compassion and favors, while constantly instigating and vulgarly insulting the middle and upper classes of the country.
The ones who have suffered are the hard working middle class citizens who, through the sweat of their brow, acquired their deserved possessions throughout long years. One by one, Chavez began sending his armed "Chavistas" into private properties, to forcefully usurp ownership and authority over what is not theirs- but they make it theirs - instantly - either with a throat slash (learned from the Iranians), a good pistol whipping, or a bullet to the head.
Anyone that owns a property, a vacation house, land, cattle, business, etc. to this day lives with the fear that this could be the day that armed robbers backed up by the government come and violently rip what is theirs, to take for themselves. It has happened time after time, causing devastation in countless lives.
This is what is happening right now:
4. Life on the Streets of Venezuela
The people of the once wealthiest country of South America are now standing in long lines early in the mornings when groceries arrive in trucks. Everything is rationed. Last night on the news it was announced that there is a lack of 17 basic food items and necessities, among them are sugar, flour, corn meal, oil, cheese, milk, chicken, butter, toilet paper, etc, (there are many other things).
Water suddenly stops running. Lights suddenly go out. Air conditioners suddenly stop functioning . . . all at the whim of controlling sadistic rulers from the federal level down to the local level who enjoy seeing people suffer.
There is a lack of medicine and medical equipment. There are no test tubes for blood samples, no colostomy bags; no electrocardiogram paper, no x-ray paper, and many other items. Surgeries are suddenly cancelled as people writhe in pain, because equipment is not working.
There are no dollars and inflation is out of control. The land is swarming with Iranian Muslims. There was a very strong alliance with Ahmadinejad and Hugo Chavez. People don't leave their homes after 5 or 6 PM due to the government supported merciless killers. . .
The Church in Venezuela is deeply divided . . . some pastors favor the government and lead their flocks to follow, others do not.
5. PLEASE PRAY FOR VENEZUELA
Father, we bless the nation of Venezuela where you have an interceding remnant who loves you and who has placed their trust in you. We thank you for their selfless love for others even as they are living in oppressive circumstances. While the situation is looking very dark and hopeless, we decree that what you did in Kenya through repentance and fasting and prayer, you will do for Venezuela. We stand in the gap for this country and say she is divorced from Baal and married to Yeshua ha Mashiach. You are the only one that can set captive nations free.
Prayer Requests:
Rejoice at the report from Reuters today, that thousands turned out in the public square to support Henrique Capriles for president. Ask our Lord to blow His breath across the nation of Venezuela, that the spirit of FREEDOM will be released upon this land; that the hand of TYRANNY be broken; that the spirit of intimidation be BOUND; and that the momentum now building towards victory for Mr. Capriles will continue to build until he wins the election, one week from today.
DECREES:
- "You will also declare a thing, And it will be established for you; So light will shine on your ways." (Job 22:28)
- " . . . so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it." (Isaiah 55:11)
- "It is God who judges: He brings one down, he exalts another." (Psalm 75:7)
- "He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning." (the voters) [Dan. 2:21]
- Protection for Henrique Capriles and his family:
"For He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you in all your ways." (Psalm 91:11)
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ALERT #2 - PAKISTAN; AFGHANISTAN
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Liberating Afghanistan and Pakistan from the Taliban:
A Special United Prayer Focus for 2013
Sponsored by the International Prayer Council and the World Prayer Assembly
Afghanistan
The Lord is answering as we continue pray with unity, faith and authority! However, as Elisha told the king in his battle with the enemy, we need to keep beating the ground with the arrows, that is persevere, to see a full and thorough breakthrough. We also need to get many thousands more uniting in prayer with us. Please share this material with others and let's trust the Lord for answers in to every request below as we agree and pray specifically together. With God, all things are indeed possible and because of the authority He has given to us as His children, the history of these two nations is literally in our hands and will be determined by our authoritative praying!
This material comes from two veteran experts on these countries- David and Michael- and we thank them for their insightful contributions to this prayer initiative. Please pray God's blessing and protection over them, their families and ministries.
[To read this detailed report, go here.]
Pakistan
We are in a spiritual, not earthly, battle which is summed up in Eph. 6 (v. 12 "Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark work and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.) Michael sees a hierarchy/order from top to bottom of command. Over Pakistan and Afghanistan at the top of which is Satan who is there to steal, kill, and destroy. Under Satan is a spiritual prince of death. Under that prince of death are the pirs, religious leaders who traffick with demons. They have a central place of occult power (Uch Sharif) where evil spreads out into 8 areas and then across the land. There are many strongholds that they control. Everyone goes to these demonic spirit mediums (religious leaders; note the # of terrorists whose names begin with religious titles such as "Mullah" or "Malawi"/"Maulvi"/"Moulvi").
Elections are critical. If Pakistan falls into the hands of Islamic radicals, Afghanistan will fall as well. The leader of the present party in office has a history of being banned from the country. He got in through a string of many deaths. At the time, there was violence in the country. He got into power through one of the pirs. One of these demonic spirit mediums lives with him today. The president carries out blood sacrifices daily offered to the prince of death.
The other party we've been praying for that is in league with the Taliban and looks to another demonic pir (spirit medium) for guidance and direction. Their leader was also banned from the country. While in exile, he learned from the radical Islamic Wahhabis. This party would be in a position to get their hands on Pakistan's many nuclear weapons and could use them against other nations, including Israel, India and the West. This is a huge international security concern so please pray this man does not get into power!
Parliament has just been dissolved. Now just one month until elections. Only God can change this-we have to pray.
[To read this detailed report, go here.]
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Thought for the Week
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Thought for the Week:
Humility
"Perpetual quietness of the heart. It is to have no trouble.
It is never to be fretted or vexed, irritable or sore;
to wonder at nothing that is done to me.
It is to be at rest when nobody praises me, and when I am blamed or despised,
it is to have a blessed home in myself where I can go in and close the door
and kneel to my Father in secret and be at peace,
as in a deep sea of calmness, when all around and about is seeming trouble."
Thought to Ponder . . .
Humility is attentive patience.
(Source Unknown)
On Capitol Hill This Week Volume XX, Number 12b
DOMESTIC ISSUES
Domestic Issues
1. U.S. ON ALERT FOR NUCLEAR BLAST OVERHEAD
WASHINGTON - U.S. officials quietly are expressing concern that North Korea could use its "space launch vehicle" to explode a high-altitude nuclear device over the United States, creating an electromagnetic pulse that would destroy major portions of the U.S. electrical grid system as well as the nation's critical infrastructures.
The concern is so great that U.S. officials who watch North Korea closely are continually monitoring the status of the North Korean "space launch vehicle," whose status could suggest a pre-emptive nuclear strike against the United States.
They are aware of the three-stage missile North Korea launched last December that also orbited a "package," which experts say could be a test to orbit a nuclear weapon that then would be deorbited on command anywhere over the U.S. and exploded at a high altitude, creating an EMP effect.
This concern is in addition to North Korea's latest threat to strike targets in Hawaii and the continental U.S., as well as possible attacks against U.S. bases in South Korea and Japan.
The 28-year-old North Korean leader, Kim Jong-un, has signed an order for North Korea's strategic rocket forces to be on standby to fire at U.S. targets. (WorldNetDaily) Read more.
- Father God, in the mighty Name of Jesus, we come against the demonic spirit that is ruling over the nation of North Korea in this hour. We thank You, Lord, that You are much greater than any other force in the universe, for You are King of Kings and Lord of all Lords. We stand in repentance before Your Throne of Grace, for the many sins of our land, and for our fallen state. As Your covenant Bride, we ask for Your mercy from our enemies.
- "Who would not fear You, O King of the nations? For this is Your rightful due. For among all the wise men of the nations, and in all their kingdoms, there is none like You." (Jer. 10:7)
2. AMERICA STRIKES BACK AGAINST DRONES
Is this the start of the Domestic Drone War? Constitutional attorney John Whitehead recently urged Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell to take action to protect the state's citizens against the threats posed by drones. The Rutherford Institute has been at the forefront of efforts to combat the use of remotely piloted drones by police agencies.
Whitehead founded the Rutherford Institute in 1982 to provide free legal services to people whose individual rights have been threatened. It has become one of the most effective civil liberties organizations in the country, pursuing both litigation to redress abuses and education to alert the public about threats to liberty. Based in Charlottesville, Virginia, the Rutherford Institute focuses on such issues as freedom of speech, religious liberty, defense of property from unlawful seizure, and the ever-escalating government assault on privacy and bodily integrity. (The Rutherford Institute) Read more.
- Dear Lord, we cry out to You for protection against the unconstitutional use of technology to spy on law-abiding citizens by control - hungry bureaucrats. Thank You for raising up strong voices against this abuse of power and may a chorus of voices across the country bring a focus on this issue. Please help right minded people in our government to prevail in this area.
- "And [this occurred] because of false brethren secretly brought in (who came in by stealth to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage)." (Galatians 2:4)
3. OBAMA'S E.O. NATIONALIZES ENERGY, FOOD, WATER . . . ALL ELSE
Executive Order 13603's "Emergency and Non-Emergency Powers"
One of the most frightening Obama edicts to come down the pike is Executive Order 13603 on "National Defense Resources Preparedness," issued a little over a year ago, on March 16, 2012. This executive order is frightening because of its sweeping scope, explicitly declaring that the president and his designated Cabinet and agency heads have authority to commandeer and control: all water, all human and animal food, all transportation, all energy, all construction materials, all "health resources," all farm equipment, all fertilizers, all fuels . . . and much more.
What should be particularly alarming to Americans is that Executive Order 13603 does not merely claim these powers during war time or during a "national emergency," but explicitly and repeatedly states that these apply "in peacetime and in times of national emergency." It further states that this "authority shall be used to promote the national defense, under both emergency and non-emergency conditions." (The New American) Read more
- Abba, as we have noted previously, we are concerned about the excessive amount of "Executive Orders" being invoked by this administration, when Congress is not in session. We know that this option is valid in emergency situations, but, it seems it is becoming all too common, and "circumventing" Congress deliberately. We ask that somehow this will be curtailed, by Congress itself, and that their would be better control and guidelines enacted to prevent the executive branch from overstepping its boundaries. Just as we do not want the Supreme Court to "legislate from the bench," neither do we want the Executive branch "legislating" from the White House. Our Constitution states that the Legislative branch (Congress) is the one to enact laws. We ask Lord, for wisdom, in dealing with any and all "misusing" of these powers. Amen.
- "But all things should be done with regard to decency and propriety and in an orderly fashion." (I Corinthians 14:40)
4. BOEHNER PANS OBAMA'S OFFER TO TRADE SSN CHANGE FOR TAX HIKES
House Speaker John Boehner preemptively rejected Obama's call for more tax hikes Friday, after administration officials revealed the president's upcoming budget would tie tax hikes to modest changes in Social Security and other benefit programs. The president plans to unveil his budget Wednesday. According to a senior administration official, the plan includes a provision to lower cost-of-living adjustments to Social Security, the benefit program for retirees. This would curb the growth in benefits.
The administration made clear that it is offering changes to Social Security and Medicare -- the two benefit programs most important to seniors -- in order to convince Republicans to accept increased revenues. The official said the plan to be unveiled this week "isn't a menu of options for them to choose from -- it's a cohesive package."
But Boehner bristled at the demand, noting that the president and his party already extracted tax increases on top earners as part of the deal to avert the fiscal crisis at the end of 2012. "In the end, the president got his tax hikes on the wealthy with no corresponding spending cuts. At some point we need to solve our spending problem, and what the president has offered would leave us with a budget that never balances. In reality, he's moved in the wrong direction, routinely taking off the table entitlement reforms he's previously told me he could support," Boehner said.
Obama's plan calls for additional tax revenue, including a proposal to place limits on tax-preferred retirement accounts for top earners. Obama has also called for limits on tax deductions by top earners, a proposal that could generate about $580 billion in revenue over 10 years.
It aims to reduce the deficit by $1.8 trillion over 10 years. The administration claimed to be offering the Social Security change reluctantly. (Fox News) Read more.
- Heavenly Father, You know the needs of Your children, and You have every authority to put in the heart of our leaders Your will concerning Americans and necessary taxes. We ask that You help us in our deliberations on tax appropriations in the coming years. Many of our citizens (baby boomers in particular) are just now entering the retirement phase of their lives, and these governmental decisions are critical to their future sustainability. Thank you for hearing our cry. In Jesus' name, amen.
- "Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him." (Matthew 6:8)
5. REPUBLICANS SAY COLLEAGUES "SECRETLY" DRAFTING IMMIGRATION BILL
Several prominent Republican senators accused their GOP colleagues of "secretly" negotiating a sweeping immigration overhaul, urging them to open up about the details by next week.
The letter from Republicans on the Senate Judiciary Committee marked the latest flare-up in the GOP caucus over the immigration plan, which has not yet been introduced. Republican negotiators have urged their colleagues not to pre-judge the proposal, but others are getting frustrated by the lack of hard details and concern that majority Democrats will try to "rush" the bill through after it's introduced.
"We believe it is critical that the public and the entire Senate body be given adequate time to read and analyze the contents of any immigration bill put forth by the majority," the senators wrote in the letter Thursday to the four Republican negotiators: Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, Arizona Sen. John McCain, Arizona Sen. Jeff Flake, and South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham. "Because the president has failed to lead on this matter, your group has secretly met for months and not consulted with members of the Committee about major changes to our nation's immigration laws. The time for transparency has come," they wrote.
- Father God, how blessed is unity when our elected officials are conducting such important business on a controversial topic. We pray for Your kind of unity to prevail in the discussions coming up in the Senate over immigration and that only that wisdom which is from above will rule in this matter. Lord, we ask that You would solve the problems of "secrecy and transparency" to the satisfaction of all. Please bless this country with an immigration policy that is right in Your eyes so that our great country, founded on principles from Your Word, may prevail.
- "Behold, how good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity." (Psalms 133:1)
6. MINISTRIES CONCERNED AS OBAMA IS PRESSURED TO SIGN ENDA ORDER
110 U.S. Representatives recently sent a letter to President Obama urging him to sign an executive order that would prohibit federal contractor from hiring and firing on the basis of sexual orientation or religious affiliation. Currently faith-based organizations are free to consider religious ciriteria in their hiring decisions while also continuing to participate in federal contract work. This executive order could prohibit faith-based organizations from performing federal contact work if they choose to hire those that share their religious beliefs. (CPC Foundation)
Press Release from the Office of Congressmen Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06):
Congressmen Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) and Jared Polis (CO-02) led 110 Members of Congress in sending a letter to President Barack Obama today calling for an executive order prohibiting contractors without sexual orientation and gender identity anti-discrimination policies from receiving federal funds. Support for the executive order has grown in Congress with 38 more Members signing on than in a similar effort last year. (Read more)
- Lord God Almighty, once again, we hear the drumbeat of "equal rights for gays" beating more and more loudly every day. And once again, we turn in repentance to You, asking that You would place a firewall around the White House so that this cry for the signing of an executive order to circumvent the ENDA strategy would fall upon deaf ears.
We agree with Your Word, calling "woe" upon those who call good evil, and evil good; but we also ask for mercy for their souls. Lord, we know that it is written that nothing is impossible for You, so we ask now, in faith, believing for a miracle. In Jesus' Name, amen.
- "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." (Luke 23:34)
"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)
7. STATE DEPT. "RAMPING UP" PROGRAM TO BRING MOSLEM STUDENTS TO U.S.
The idea of "education diplomacy" has "really arrived" at the highest levels of American foreign policy, a US State Department official has told an international higher education conference. Meghann Curtis, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Academic Programs at the US Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, said that the bureau had always been driven by the notion that "we'd be a more stable, peaceful and prosperous world if we could all get to know one another". But she said that the issue had recently become "incredibly important".
Engagement with the Middle East and North Africa, and other Muslim-majority countries, was a top priority to address a "big deficit" in mutual understanding, she said in a round-table session, "The importance of academic exchange in foreign affairs" at the Association of International Education Administrators annual conference in New Orleans.
"I was having a conversation with folks at the White House, in the policy shop over there, and this idea of education diplomacy has really arrived," she said. She also said programmes to bring students and scholars from Muslim-majority countries into the US had been "ramped up". (Front Page Magazine) Read more.
- Our Mighty God, we come against this policy which undermines the foundation of our country. We ask that You would cause this policy decision to be rescinded and for the flow of students into our country be limited to only those who legitimately want to take advantage of our educational system for the good of all and not to learn things that could be used against us. Since so many foreign students are already in our country, we ask that all would have an encounter with Your Living Presence and be brought into salvation and the Kingdom of God while they are here.
- "If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, when men rose up against us, then they would have swallowed us alive, when their wrath was kindled against us."
(Psalms 124:2-3)
8. A BRONZE STAR AWARDED FOR TEACHING SENSITIVITY TO THE KORAN
An Air Force chaplain has been awarded a Bronze Star for his service in crafting an especially good PowerPoint about how to treat Islamic religious materials with sensitivity, according to Ohio's Dayton Daily News. After U.S. troops in Afghanistan accidentally burned copies of the Koran, sparking riots that took over 30 lives, Lieutenant Colonel Jon Trainer came to the rescue . . .
Within 48 hours, Trainer developed a PowerPoint presentation on the proper handling and disposal of Islamic religious material that was seen by every American - military and civilian alike - in Afghanistan. The presentation then was distributed to the U.S. for use in all pre-deployment training.
The piece explains that Trainer also helped teach service members just how wide the breadth of their sensitivity had to be, covering what constitutes Islamic religious material in the first place. "When a Muslim writes down even a few verses from the Quran on a piece of paper," he told the paper, "that immediately gets that same protected status."
Trainer is a nondenominational Christian minister who has been in the Air Force for 17 years. He is also being recognized for his work running the Army's suicide-prevention program, in which he's trained more than 36,000 service members.
The Bronze Star is the U.S. military's fifth most prestigious combat award, and can be awarded for acts of merit or valor in a combat zone (if the military deems it an act of heroism, the award is given with a "V" device). (National Review) Read more.
- This article, when combined with the one above, shows all of us how far down the slippery slope our government has gone in promoting "cross-cultural understanding." We are witnessing the blind leading the blind . . . even in the heart of our military. Ask our Lord to release His spirit of Grace upon those in authority in all branches of our military, that they might be released from deception and brought back to truth. Pray!
- "Leave them; they are blind guides. If the blind lead the blind, both will fall into a pit." (Matthew 15:14)
9. OBAMA SAYS YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO BANKING PRIVACY
The Obama administration is drawing up plans to give all U.S. spy agencies full access to a massive database that contains financial data on American citizens and others who bank in the country, according to a Treasury Department document seen by Reuters.
The proposed plan represents a major step by U.S. intelligence agencies to spot and track down terrorist networks and crime syndicates by bringing together financial databanks, criminal records and military intelligence. The plan, which legal experts say is permissible under U.S. law, is nonetheless likely to trigger intense criticism from privacy advocates.
Financial institutions that operate in the United States are required by law to file reports of "suspicious customer activity," such as large money transfers or unusually structured bank accounts, to Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN).
Reuters readily admits that the FBI already has access to the financial records of Americans but the NSA and other intelligence agencies feel disadvantaged as they have to apply on a case-by case basis to view private banking records.
"For these reports to be of value in detecting money laundering, they must be accessible to law enforcement, counter-terrorism agencies, financial regulators, and the intelligence community," said the Treasury document given to Reuters. (Activist Post) Read more.
- Lord God, once again we cry out and we wonder what happened to "The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated"? Obama's legal team seems to be ignoring another cornerstone of our Constitution: the Fourth Amendment in the Bill of Rights.
We thank You, dear Lord, that our protection is in You and by Your shed blood. We ask that You command angels to turn the hearts of those in authority, so that we be kept safe from the unnecessary invasion of our privacy. Thank You, Lord, for hearing our prayer, in Your name, amen.
- "And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive."
(Matthew 21:22)
10. THE BIG BANKS ARE RECKLESSLY GAMBLING WITH OUR MONEY
WILL CAUSE THE GLOBAL FINANCIAL SYSTEM TO COLLAPSE
Have you ever wondered how the big banks make such enormous mountains of money? Well, the truth is that much of it is made by gambling recklessly. If they win on their bets, they become fabulously wealthy. If they lose on their bets, they know that the government will come in and arrange for the banks to be bailed out because they are "too big to fail". Either they will be bailed out by the government using our tax dollars; or, as we just witnessed in Cyprus, they will be allowed to "recapitalize" themselves by stealing money directly from our bank accounts.
So if they win, they win big. If they lose, someone else will come in and clean up the mess. This creates a tremendous incentive for the bankers to "go for it", because there is simply not enough pain in this equation for those that are taking the risks.
If the big Wall Street banks had been allowed to collapse back in 2008, that would have caused a massive change of behavior on Wall Street. But instead, the big banks are still recklessly gambling with our money as if the last financial crisis never even happened. In the end, the reckless behavior of these big banks is going to cause the entire global financial system to collapse. (Activist Post) Read more.
- Please pray against dishonesty and manipulation in the big banks. Pray that the bank executives meet the Lord and that the Holy Spirit opens their eyes to their wicked ways, for they are stealing from their investors.
- "Therefore, I will look to the Lord; I will wait for the God of my salvation;
my God will hear me." ( Micah 7: 7)
11. DHS CAN SEIZE GOLD, SILVER, AND GUNS FROM SAFETY DEPOSIT BOXES
According to in-house memos now circulating, the DHS has issued orders to banks across America which announce to them that "under the Patriot Act" the DHS has the absolute right to seize, without any warrant whatsoever, any and all customer bank accounts, to make "periodic and unannounced" visits to any bank to open and inspect the contents of "selected safe deposit boxes."
Further, the DHS "shall, at the discretion of the agent supervising the search, remove, photograph or seize as evidence" any of the following items "bar gold, gold coins, firearms of any kind unless manufactured prior to 1878, documents such as passports or foreign bank account records, pornography or any material that, in the opinion of the agent, shall be deemed of to be of a contraband nature. . . "
If people have their emergency money in a safe deposit box or an account in a bank that closes, they will not be allowed into the bank to get it out. They can knock on the door and beg to get in but the sheriff's department or whoever is handling the closure will simply say "no" because they are just following orders. (Infowars) Read more. Reported by HNN News.
- Enough is enough. Man's laws simply MUST obey God's laws, or they will backfire in the face of our government. It is clearly written in His Ten Commandments: "THOU SHALT NOT STEAL." It's time for payback . . . decree it together. Amen.
- "Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, 'VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY,' says the Lord." (Romans 12:19)
Focus on Gun Control
1. UN ADOPTS LANDMARK TREATY TO REGULATE GLOBAL ARMS TRADE
The U.N. General Assembly overwhelmingly approved the first international treaty regulating the multibillion-dollar global arms trade Tuesday, after a more than decade-long campaign to keep weapons from falling into the hands of terrorists, warlords, organized crime figures and human rights violators.
Loud cheers erupted in the assembly chamber as the electronic board flashed the final vote: 154 in favor, 3 against and 23 abstentions.
"This is a victory for the world's people," U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said. "The Arms Trade Treaty will make it more difficult for deadly weapons to be diverted into the illicit market. . . It will be a powerful new tool in our efforts to prevent grave human rights abuses or violations of international humanitarian law."
The United States, the world's biggest arms exporter, voted yes.
What impact the treaty will actually have remains to be seen. It will take effect 90 days after 50 countries ratify it, and a lot will depend on which ones ratify and which ones don't, and how stringently it is implemented.
As for its chances of being ratified by the U.S., the powerful National Rifle Association has vehemently opposed it, and it is likely to face stiff resistance from conservatives in the Senate, where it needs two-thirds to win ratification. (Washington Post) Read more.
- Our prayer request aligns with the reaction by Senator Ted Cruz and others. Please see below.
2. SENATOR CRUZ: UN ARMS TREATY "MUST NEVER BE RATIFIED"
While the U.N. General Assembly overwhelmingly approved the first international treaty attempting to regulate the $60 billion global small arms trade on Tuesday, the measure is likely to be dead on arrival in the U.S. Senate as Republicans have repeatedly voiced concerns that such a measure is a backdoor attempt to usurp Second Amendment gun rights.
"UN Arms Treaty should be rejected outright by US Senate," tweeted Texas Sen. Ted Cruz on Tuesday. "It is international gun regulation, plain and simple & it must never be ratified."
Even before the international document was drafted, the Senate last month voted to prevent the United States from entering into such an arms treaty with all 45 Republicans and eight Democrats, supporting an amendment drafted by Oklahoma Sen. James M. Inhofe. The measure would require two-thirds approval for ratification by the upper chamber, which has a total of only 100 seats.
"The U.N. Arms Trade Treaty is another attempt by internationalists to limit and infringe upon America's sovereignty," said Inhofe in a statement. "Such a treaty would require the United States to implement laws as required by the treaty, instead of the national controls that are currently in place. This would also disrupt diplomatic and national security efforts by preventing our government from assisting allies like Taiwan, South Korea, or Israel when they require assistance. I will continue to mount strong opposition to any effort by Secretary Kerry and the State Department to ratify this treaty."
Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott on Tuesday wrote to President Obama urging him not to sign the Arms Trade Treaty, calling it a "threat to Americans' constitutional liberty" and threatening legal action.
"If you sign it, and if the U.S. Senate ratifies the treaty, Texas will lead the charge to have the treaty overturned in court as a violation of the U.S. Constitution," wrote Abbott in the letter. (Newsmax) Read more.
- We agree with the statements, above, made by Senators Ted Cruz and James Inhofe, and by Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott -- this treaty, if signed into law, will abrogate both the sovereignty of our nation, and our right to bear arms under the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution. The momentum towards passage must be stopped here and it must be stopped now. Declare the decree; stand in the gap; write your senators (not congressmen) and voice your opinion. It is time for combined PRAYER AND ACTION to see our freedom secured from invasion by the New World Order. Amen.
- "This far you may come and no farther; here is where your proud waves halt."
(Job 38:11)
3. REP. STEVE STOCKMAN MOVES TO KILL SENATE GUN BAN IN THE HOUSE
Rep. Steve Stockman (R-TX), the same congressman that blasted Barack Obama back in February for using fake Twitter message to fight for gun control, announced in a press release that he will automatically kill the Senate Democrats sweeping new anti-gun bill using a House "blue slip." This comes as three senators band together to filibuster the legislation.
So what is this "blue slip" you ask? According to the press release:
A "blue slip" is a resolution that automatically returns to the Senate any bill that violates the "origination clause" of the United States Constitution. The origination clause states "All Bills for raising Revenue shall originate in the House of Representatives."
Blue slip resolutions are immediately considered as a matter of constitutional privilege, are debatable for an hour and are not subject to amendment.
"The Democrat gun ban is dead on arrival. I will introduce in the House a blue slip resolution that will automatically kill the Senate gun ban," said Stockman. "Not only are Democrats on the wrong side of public opinion, they are on the wrong side of the Constitution. You can't strip Americans of their gun rights, and you certainly can't do it by having the Senate create a national tax on firearms. They are in violation of constitutional limits on federal power."
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV)'s S 649 is a combination of three anti-gun bills (S. 374, S. 54 and S. 146). These three bills were quickly rammed through the Judiciary Committee without so much as a committee report. That's called tyranny ladies and gentlemen.
Remember that this is the same thing the Socialist Democrats did with Obamacare and it was eventually upheld as constitutional, even though we all know it's not, as a tax. They are following the same approach; putting this legislation on a fast track, ramming it down the American people's throats and all to impose their will on the people. When they push any legislation like this forward in this manner, you can be sure it is bad for America. This is exactly why Senators Rand Paul (R-KY), Ted Cruz(R-TX) and Mike Lee (R-UT) have determined to lead a filibuster which will educate the American people on the subject of the Second Amendment. It's also the reason that Rep. Stockman is doing what he can in the House to stop the Democrats' assault on the Constitution by using the blue slip.
- Offer up a chorus of PRAISE for strong voices in Congress, on both sides of the Hill, who are fighting every day to uphold our rights as American citizens. Please remember that the mainstream media does not (and even seems afraid to) report ALL the news that is happening on the Hill. Could it be that this media wants to keep you and me from knowing the truth of the good news on the Hill?
If we remain in the dark, we slide into a pit of despair, hopelessness and fear. But the TRUTH will set us free!
Please support Congressman Stockman and all other members of your choosing who ARE defending our rights. They are operating under a burden of extreme, unrelenting pressure to cave into the works of darkness.
Support each one in prayer and action and PRAY!
- "Let God arise, and let His enemies be scattered and let those who hate Him flee before Him." (Psalm 68:1)
4. OBAMA: "GUN CONTROL WILL NOT LEAD TO CONFISCATION OF FIREARMS"
Because 'I Am Constrained by a System Our Founders Put in Place'
DENVER (TheBlaze/AP) - Ratcheting up pressure for Congress to limit access to guns, President Barack Obama said Wednesday that recent steps by Colorado to tighten its gun laws show "there doesn't have to be a conflict" between keeping citizens safe and protecting Second Amendment rights to gun ownership. "I believe there doesn't have to be a conflict in reconciling these realities," Obama said in Denver, where he stepped up his call for background checks for all gun purchases and renewed his demand that Congress at least vote on banning assault weapons and limiting access to large-capacity ammunition magazines.
The president dismissed gun owners' concerns that gun control legislation could be a stepping stone to gun confiscation in the U.S., saying "I am constrained by a system our founders put in place." (The Blaze; AP) Read more.
_Lord we pray against the deception perpetrated by this president. We ask that You intervene to reveal all of the President's hidden agendas to the citizens of this nation, and ask that they will not be deceived any longer.
- "The heart of him that has understanding seeks knowledge: but the mouth of fools feeds on foolishness." (Proverbs 15:14)
5. FIREARMS RISK PROTECTION ACT: GUN OWNERS MAY PAY $10,000 FINE
While the Socialists are finally coming out about the reality of the costs that Obamacare will bring and the utter monstrosity it is, others of the Socialist Democrat Party are pushing for gun owners to be forced to purchase liability insurance for gun owners. Those that don't could face fines of $10,000. We told you that when you open the floodgates of allowing the Federal government to mandate purchasing a product there would be more to come. Maloneycare is just another in a long line of legislation that will be coming down the pipe.
Representative Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) introduced her bill, H.R. 1369, along with eight other Socialists in the Democrat Party saying it would be "the first bill to require liability insurance of gun buyers nationwide." (Freedom Outpost) Read more.
- Father God, the price tag of any insurance policy that tries to pay for gunshot related deaths would be exorbitant. We ask for Your intervention to stop this bill before it gets any traction in the Congress.
- "In that day shall the Lord of hosts be for a crown of glory . . . and for strength to them that turn the battle to the gate." (Isaiah 28:5,6)
In the Courts
1. COLONEL: ANTI-DOMA RULING COULD SILENCE CHAPLAINS
Retired Col. Ron Crews warns a ruling against the Defense of Marriage Act could put military chaplains at greater risk for discrimination. Crews, who heads the Chaplain Alliance for Religious Liberty, said DOMA limited the impact when the 'don't ask, don't tell' policy was lifted and gays were allowed to serve openly in the armed forces. Since DOMA is a federal law it governs the military. But Crews believes if it's overturned, chaplains who oppose homosexuality for religious reasons will be silenced and their careers damaged. Gay rights advocates say DOMA dishonors gay veterans by denying benefits to their partners. (CBN News) Read more.
- Father we ask that You protect the ability of our chaplains to speak the truth.
- "Let the lying lips be put to silence; which speak grievous things proudly and contemptuously against the righteous." [Psalm 31:18]
2. FEDERAL CIRCUIT COURTS UPHOLD DELIBERATIVE BODY PRAYER
Last week, two federal courts issued decisions affirming the right of local advisory bodies to open meetings in prayer. Plaintiffs urged the court to ban "prayers in the name of Jesus Christ ( or an religious figure). The court, dismissed the cases, saying that the prayer policies did not constitute a specific religion. Last year Members of the Congressional Prayer Caucus filed an amicus curiae supporting the freedom of the these deliberative bodies to begin their meetings with prayer. (CPC Foundation) Read more.
- This is another cause for rejoicing, as this case has been bathed in prayer since its inception. We want to thank Congressman J. Randy Forbes and the Congressional Prayer Caucus Foundation for keeping us all apprised of the progress and now the ruling on this case, and we thank the Lord for answered prayer. Amen!
- "Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord!" (Psalm 150:6)
3. JUDGE'S "MORNING AFTER" PILL RULING PUTS GIRLS AT RISK
A federal judge's ruling that would allow the abortion-inducing "Morning After Pill" to be purchased over the counter by persons of any age is being met with strong opposition by pro-life groups, which assert that giving the drug to young girls without parental consent or a doctor's prescription is a dangerous scenario.
"This ruling places the health of young girls at risk," Anna Higgins, director of the Center for Human Dignity at the Family Research Council said it a statement. On Friday, Judge Edward R. Korman of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York reversed a 2011 decision by the Health and Human Services (HHS) to limit access to the "emergency contraceptive" to young women 17 or older.
Janet Morana, executive director of Priests for Life, called the judge's decision "totally irresponsible."
"I would not want my daughters to be taking medication without a doctor's consent or my knowledge, Morana said, adding that the decision also flies in the face of those who oppose abortion for moral and religious reasons.
In his ruling, Korman called the HHS directive to the FDA to limit access without a prescription to women 17 or older "political intervention" by the Obama administration, ahead of the 2012 election. Korman said in his ruling that the HHS directive was a "politically motivated effort to avoid riling religious groups and others opposed to making birth control available to girls."
The morning-after pill contains a higher dose of the female progestin hormone that is in regular birth control pills and if taken within 72 hours after intercourse, can prevent the fertilized egg from implantation in the uterus. (CNS News) Read more.
- Lord we repent for this abomination, and ask that this ruling be struck down by subsequent courts. We pray for the safety of our young girls, as well as a move of the Holy Spirit to change their hearts from selfish behavior to the love of God. We praise You, Lord, for we know that -- no matter what -- you are in control. We ask again that You would yet show Your mercy to our nation, and forgive us of our sins. In Jesus' Name, amen.
- "For the Word of the Lord is right; and all His works are done in truth." [Psalm 33:4]
4. SUPREME COURT RULINGS ON DOMA/PROPOSITION 8 DUE IN LATE JUNE
Supreme Court Likely to Advance Gay Marriage But Stop Short of Broad Ruling
After two days of highly anticipated courtroom arguments about same-sex marriage, a sweeping ruling on gay rights seems unlikely from the U.S. Supreme Court. But when decisions in both cases come in late June, the result may nonetheless be an important one for advocates of same-sex marriage.
Though it's risky to predict how the court will rule based solely on comments by the justices during the oral arguments, one outcome seemed probable -- a decision striking down the Defense of Marriage Act.
"A decision saying that DOMA is unconstitutional because it discriminates against people based on their sexual orientation, and requiring the federal government to give full recognition to the existing marriages of same-sex couples, would be a huge victory," said Paul Smith of the Washington, D.C., law firm of Jenner & Block. (NBC) Read more.
- Now that the nine justices of the United States Supreme Court have retired to their chambers to begin deliberating their opinions and verdicts on both of these "gay rights" cases, it is more important than ever to hold each one up before the Lord, in prayer. Indeed, this is a "Judeo- Christian court," comprised of six Catholics, and three Jews. Surely, they must know the law of God; and sure they must consider Him in their findings. Nothing is too difficult for God; trust Him to speak to each justice, even as he or she is asleep in the night. Amen.
- "In a dream, in a vision of the night,
When deep sleep falls upon men,
While slumbering on their beds,
Then He opens the ears of men,
And terrifies them with warnings." (Job 33:15,16)
The names of the nine Justices of the United States Supreme Court are:
* Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr.
* Justice Antonin Scalia
* Justice Anthony M. Kennedy
* Justice Clarence Thomas
* Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg
* Justice Stephen G. Breyer
* Justice Samuel A. Alito, Jr.
* Justice Sonia Sotomayor
* Justice Elena Kagan
5. HOMESCHOOL ASYLUM CASE CRITICAL
(Purcellville, VA)-Because they were being persecuted and threatened for homeschooling their children in Germany, where it is illegal, in January 2010, the Romeike family was granted political asylum by U.S. Immigration Judge Lawrence O. Burman. Immediately, however, the Obama administration appealed the case. The following is an important update:
Focus on the Family spokesman and Truth Project founder Dr. Del Tackett [last week] declared his support for HSLDA's efforts to defend the Romeike family. Tackett believes that the U.S. government is siding with the restrictive homeschooling laws in Germany and that this could have serious implications for American homeschoolers.
"[The U.S. government] doesn't believe that parents have a right to educate their children," Tackett said. "It is more in line with the National Education Association that homeschooling shouldn't be allowed. It believes that the government can best educate 'America's children.' It doesn't want another worldview taught in this country. It wants America's children to have one worldview and one worldview only."
In 2008, the Romeikes fled their home in Germany after facing fines and jail time and came to the U.S. seeking asylum, but now, the Obama Administration is opposing their quest for asylum by saying homeschooling is too vague and amorphous to be protected under asylum law. Their case is now set to be argued in the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals on April 23 by HSLDA Chairman Mike Farris.
In addition to representing the family in court, HSLDA has also launched a petition on WhiteHouse.gov calling on the Obama Administration to "grant full and permanent legal status to Uwe and Hannelore Romeike and their children." Tackett applauded the petition and urged people to sign it. "This will be the first time that I have advocated signing a petition, but I believe this is a critical issue, one that is being played out behind big media coverage and one that could put a deep chill in the rights of parents in this country to determine the educational direction of their children," he said. "We are appreciative of the support from Focus on the Family and encourage others to get behind these modern day Pilgrims who came to America to seek religious freedom for themselves and their children," said Farris. (Breaking Christian News)
- Once again today, we advocate PRAYER AND ACTION in order to secure the rights of this family, and for homeschoolers everywhere. Please join us in declaring the decree below. Thank you.
- "When a man's ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him." (Proverbs 16:7)
Video for the Week:
Gun Control in Australia
Take about 5 minutes and watch this, it is worth the time investment. Pay close attention to the statistics related to crime as well as the types of crime.
We suggest you send it to other people you know and try to get the broadest possible distribution.
This is right around the corner.
To view this video, go here.
> > > We don't want this to happen here . . .
This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
KING OF KINGS
(Mehlekh Ha M'lahk-heem)
On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written:
KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS. (Rev. 19:16)
That You are the King of all the kings who ever was, are or ever will be, is sometimes too much for me to fully comprehend. But I am thankful to be Your child. Thank You for the imperishable inheritance that awaits me from the KING OF KINGS. Amen.
( Source: THE NAME- HaShem: Daily Devotional Worship by Dr. Barri Cae Mallin)
Available on Amazon.com by going here:
http://www.amazon.com/THE-NAME-HaShem-Devotional-Worship/dp/1439263396
DOMESTIC ISSUES
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On Capitol Hill This Week: Vol. XX, No. 12b
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Domestic Issues
- U.S. ON ALERT FOR NUCLEAR BLAST OVERHEAD
- AMERICA STRIKES BACK AGAINST DRONES
- OBAMA 'S E.O. NATIONALIZES ENERGY, FOOD, WATER . . . ALL ELSE
- BOEHNER PANS OBAMA'S OFFER TO TRADE SSN CHANGE FOR TAX HIKES
- TROUBLE AMIDST REPUBLICANS OVER IMMIGRATION BILL
- MINISTRIES CONCERNED AS OBAMA IS PRESSURED TO SIGN ENDA ORDER
- STATE DEPT. "RAMPS UP" PROGRAM; BRINGS MOSLEM STUDENTS TO U.S.
- A BRONZE STAR AWARDED FOR TEACHING SENSITIVITY TO THE KORAN
- OBAMA SAYS YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO BANKING PRIVACY
- THE BIG BANKS ARE RECKLESSLY GAMBLING WITH OUR MONEY
- DHS CAN SEIZE GOLD, SILVER, AND GUNS FROM SAFETY DEPOSIT BOXES
1. U.S. ON ALERT FOR NUCLEAR BLAST OVERHEAD
WASHINGTON - U.S. officials quietly are expressing concern that North Korea could use its "space launch vehicle" to explode a high-altitude nuclear device over the United States, creating an electromagnetic pulse that would destroy major portions of the U.S. electrical grid system as well as the nation's critical infrastructures.
The concern is so great that U.S. officials who watch North Korea closely are continually monitoring the status of the North Korean "space launch vehicle," whose status could suggest a pre-emptive nuclear strike against the United States.
They are aware of the three-stage missile North Korea launched last December that also orbited a "package," which experts say could be a test to orbit a nuclear weapon that then would be deorbited on command anywhere over the U.S. and exploded at a high altitude, creating an EMP effect.
This concern is in addition to North Korea's latest threat to strike targets in Hawaii and the continental U.S., as well as possible attacks against U.S. bases in South Korea and Japan.
The 28-year-old North Korean leader, Kim Jong-un, has signed an order for North Korea's strategic rocket forces to be on standby to fire at U.S. targets. (WorldNetDaily) Read more.
- Father God, in the mighty Name of Jesus, we come against the demonic spirit that is ruling over the nation of North Korea in this hour. We thank You, Lord, that You are much greater than any other force in the universe, for You are King of Kings and Lord of all Lords. We stand in repentance before Your Throne of Grace, for the many sins of our land, and for our fallen state. As Your covenant Bride, we ask for Your mercy from our enemies.
- "Who would not fear You, O King of the nations? For this is Your rightful due. For among all the wise men of the nations, and in all their kingdoms, there is none like You." (Jer. 10:7)
2. AMERICA STRIKES BACK AGAINST DRONES
Is this the start of the Domestic Drone War? Constitutional attorney John Whitehead recently urged Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell to take action to protect the state's citizens against the threats posed by drones. The Rutherford Institute has been at the forefront of efforts to combat the use of remotely piloted drones by police agencies.
Whitehead founded the Rutherford Institute in 1982 to provide free legal services to people whose individual rights have been threatened. It has become one of the most effective civil liberties organizations in the country, pursuing both litigation to redress abuses and education to alert the public about threats to liberty. Based in Charlottesville, Virginia, the Rutherford Institute focuses on such issues as freedom of speech, religious liberty, defense of property from unlawful seizure, and the ever-escalating government assault on privacy and bodily integrity. (The Rutherford Institute) Read more.
- Dear Lord, we cry out to You for protection against the unconstitutional use of technology to spy on law-abiding citizens by control - hungry bureaucrats. Thank You for raising up strong voices against this abuse of power and may a chorus of voices across the country bring a focus on this issue. Please help right minded people in our government to prevail in this area.
- "And [this occurred] because of false brethren secretly brought in (who came in by stealth to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage)." (Galatians 2:4)
3. OBAMA'S E.O. NATIONALIZES ENERGY, FOOD, WATER . . . ALL ELSE
Executive Order 13603's "Emergency and Non-Emergency Powers"
One of the most frightening Obama edicts to come down the pike is Executive Order 13603 on "National Defense Resources Preparedness," issued a little over a year ago, on March 16, 2012. This executive order is frightening because of its sweeping scope, explicitly declaring that the president and his designated Cabinet and agency heads have authority to commandeer and control: all water, all human and animal food, all transportation, all energy, all construction materials, all "health resources," all farm equipment, all fertilizers, all fuels . . . and much more.
What should be particularly alarming to Americans is that Executive Order 13603 does not merely claim these powers during war time or during a "national emergency," but explicitly and repeatedly states that these apply "in peacetime and in times of national emergency." It further states that this "authority shall be used to promote the national defense, under both emergency and non-emergency conditions." (The New American) Read more
- Abba, as we have noted previously, we are concerned about the excessive amount of "Executive Orders" being invoked by this administration, when Congress is not in session. We know that this option is valid in emergency situations, but, it seems it is becoming all too common, and "circumventing" Congress deliberately. We ask that somehow this will be curtailed, by Congress itself, and that their would be better control and guidelines enacted to prevent the executive branch from overstepping its boundaries. Just as we do not want the Supreme Court to "legislate from the bench," neither do we want the Executive branch "legislating" from the White House. Our Constitution states that the Legislative branch (Congress) is the one to enact laws. We ask Lord, for wisdom, in dealing with any and all "misusing" of these powers. Amen.
- "But all things should be done with regard to decency and propriety and in an orderly fashion." (I Corinthians 14:40)
4. BOEHNER PANS OBAMA'S OFFER TO TRADE SSN CHANGE FOR TAX HIKES
House Speaker John Boehner preemptively rejected Obama's call for more tax hikes Friday, after administration officials revealed the president's upcoming budget would tie tax hikes to modest changes in Social Security and other benefit programs. The president plans to unveil his budget Wednesday. According to a senior administration official, the plan includes a provision to lower cost-of-living adjustments to Social Security, the benefit program for retirees. This would curb the growth in benefits.
The administration made clear that it is offering changes to Social Security and Medicare -- the two benefit programs most important to seniors -- in order to convince Republicans to accept increased revenues. The official said the plan to be unveiled this week "isn't a menu of options for them to choose from -- it's a cohesive package."
But Boehner bristled at the demand, noting that the president and his party already extracted tax increases on top earners as part of the deal to avert the fiscal crisis at the end of 2012. "In the end, the president got his tax hikes on the wealthy with no corresponding spending cuts. At some point we need to solve our spending problem, and what the president has offered would leave us with a budget that never balances. In reality, he's moved in the wrong direction, routinely taking off the table entitlement reforms he's previously told me he could support," Boehner said.
Obama's plan calls for additional tax revenue, including a proposal to place limits on tax-preferred retirement accounts for top earners. Obama has also called for limits on tax deductions by top earners, a proposal that could generate about $580 billion in revenue over 10 years.
It aims to reduce the deficit by $1.8 trillion over 10 years. The administration claimed to be offering the Social Security change reluctantly. (Fox News) Read more.
- Heavenly Father, You know the needs of Your children, and You have every authority to put in the heart of our leaders Your will concerning Americans and necessary taxes. We ask that You help us in our deliberations on tax appropriations in the coming years. Many of our citizens (baby boomers in particular) are just now entering the retirement phase of their lives, and these governmental decisions are critical to their future sustainability. Thank you for hearing our cry. In Jesus' name, amen.
- "Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him." (Matthew 6:8)
5. REPUBLICANS SAY COLLEAGUES "SECRETLY" DRAFTING IMMIGRATION BILL
Several prominent Republican senators accused their GOP colleagues of "secretly" negotiating a sweeping immigration overhaul, urging them to open up about the details by next week.
The letter from Republicans on the Senate Judiciary Committee marked the latest flare-up in the GOP caucus over the immigration plan, which has not yet been introduced. Republican negotiators have urged their colleagues not to pre-judge the proposal, but others are getting frustrated by the lack of hard details and concern that majority Democrats will try to "rush" the bill through after it's introduced.
"We believe it is critical that the public and the entire Senate body be given adequate time to read and analyze the contents of any immigration bill put forth by the majority," the senators wrote in the letter Thursday to the four Republican negotiators: Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, Arizona Sen. John McCain, Arizona Sen. Jeff Flake, and South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham. "Because the president has failed to lead on this matter, your group has secretly met for months and not consulted with members of the Committee about major changes to our nation's immigration laws. The time for transparency has come," they wrote.
- Father God, how blessed is unity when our elected officials are conducting such important business on a controversial topic. We pray for Your kind of unity to prevail in the discussions coming up in the Senate over immigration and that only that wisdom which is from above will rule in this matter. Lord, we ask that You would solve the problems of "secrecy and transparency" to the satisfaction of all. Please bless this country with an immigration policy that is right in Your eyes so that our great country, founded on principles from Your Word, may prevail.
- "Behold, how good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity." (Psalms 133:1)
6. MINISTRIES CONCERNED AS OBAMA IS PRESSURED TO SIGN ENDA ORDER
110 U.S. Representatives recently sent a letter to President Obama urging him to sign an executive order that would prohibit federal contractor from hiring and firing on the basis of sexual orientation or religious affiliation. Currently faith-based organizations are free to consider religious ciriteria in their hiring decisions while also continuing to participate in federal contract work. This executive order could prohibit faith-based organizations from performing federal contact work if they choose to hire those that share their religious beliefs. (CPC Foundation)
Press Release from the Office of Congressmen Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06):
Congressmen Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) and Jared Polis (CO-02) led 110 Members of Congress in sending a letter to President Barack Obama today calling for an executive order prohibiting contractors without sexual orientation and gender identity anti-discrimination policies from receiving federal funds. Support for the executive order has grown in Congress with 38 more Members signing on than in a similar effort last year. (Read more)
- Lord God Almighty, once again, we hear the drumbeat of "equal rights for gays" beating more and more loudly every day. And once again, we turn in repentance to You, asking that You would place a firewall around the White House so that this cry for the signing of an executive order to circumvent the ENDA strategy would fall upon deaf ears.
We agree with Your Word, calling "woe" upon those who call good evil, and evil good; but we also ask for mercy for their souls. Lord, we know that it is written that nothing is impossible for You, so we ask now, in faith, believing for a miracle. In Jesus' Name, amen.
- "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." (Luke 23:34)
"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)
7. STATE DEPT. "RAMPING UP" PROGRAM TO BRING MOSLEM STUDENTS TO U.S.
The idea of "education diplomacy" has "really arrived" at the highest levels of American foreign policy, a US State Department official has told an international higher education conference. Meghann Curtis, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Academic Programs at the US Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, said that the bureau had always been driven by the notion that "we'd be a more stable, peaceful and prosperous world if we could all get to know one another". But she said that the issue had recently become "incredibly important".
Engagement with the Middle East and North Africa, and other Muslim-majority countries, was a top priority to address a "big deficit" in mutual understanding, she said in a round-table session, "The importance of academic exchange in foreign affairs" at the Association of International Education Administrators annual conference in New Orleans.
"I was having a conversation with folks at the White House, in the policy shop over there, and this idea of education diplomacy has really arrived," she said. She also said programmes to bring students and scholars from Muslim-majority countries into the US had been "ramped up". (Front Page Magazine) Read more.
- Our Mighty God, we come against this policy which undermines the foundation of our country. We ask that You would cause this policy decision to be rescinded and for the flow of students into our country be limited to only those who legitimately want to take advantage of our educational system for the good of all and not to learn things that could be used against us. Since so many foreign students are already in our country, we ask that all would have an encounter with Your Living Presence and be brought into salvation and the Kingdom of God while they are here.
- "If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, when men rose up against us, then they would have swallowed us alive, when their wrath was kindled against us."
(Psalms 124:2-3)
8. A BRONZE STAR AWARDED FOR TEACHING SENSITIVITY TO THE KORAN
An Air Force chaplain has been awarded a Bronze Star for his service in crafting an especially good PowerPoint about how to treat Islamic religious materials with sensitivity, according to Ohio's Dayton Daily News. After U.S. troops in Afghanistan accidentally burned copies of the Koran, sparking riots that took over 30 lives, Lieutenant Colonel Jon Trainer came to the rescue . . .
Within 48 hours, Trainer developed a PowerPoint presentation on the proper handling and disposal of Islamic religious material that was seen by every American - military and civilian alike - in Afghanistan. The presentation then was distributed to the U.S. for use in all pre-deployment training.
The piece explains that Trainer also helped teach service members just how wide the breadth of their sensitivity had to be, covering what constitutes Islamic religious material in the first place. "When a Muslim writes down even a few verses from the Quran on a piece of paper," he told the paper, "that immediately gets that same protected status."
Trainer is a nondenominational Christian minister who has been in the Air Force for 17 years. He is also being recognized for his work running the Army's suicide-prevention program, in which he's trained more than 36,000 service members.
The Bronze Star is the U.S. military's fifth most prestigious combat award, and can be awarded for acts of merit or valor in a combat zone (if the military deems it an act of heroism, the award is given with a "V" device). (National Review) Read more.
- This article, when combined with the one above, shows all of us how far down the slippery slope our government has gone in promoting "cross-cultural understanding." We are witnessing the blind leading the blind . . . even in the heart of our military. Ask our Lord to release His spirit of Grace upon those in authority in all branches of our military, that they might be released from deception and brought back to truth. Pray!
- "Leave them; they are blind guides. If the blind lead the blind, both will fall into a pit." (Matthew 15:14)
9. OBAMA SAYS YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO BANKING PRIVACY
The Obama administration is drawing up plans to give all U.S. spy agencies full access to a massive database that contains financial data on American citizens and others who bank in the country, according to a Treasury Department document seen by Reuters.
The proposed plan represents a major step by U.S. intelligence agencies to spot and track down terrorist networks and crime syndicates by bringing together financial databanks, criminal records and military intelligence. The plan, which legal experts say is permissible under U.S. law, is nonetheless likely to trigger intense criticism from privacy advocates.
Financial institutions that operate in the United States are required by law to file reports of "suspicious customer activity," such as large money transfers or unusually structured bank accounts, to Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN).
Reuters readily admits that the FBI already has access to the financial records of Americans but the NSA and other intelligence agencies feel disadvantaged as they have to apply on a case-by case basis to view private banking records.
"For these reports to be of value in detecting money laundering, they must be accessible to law enforcement, counter-terrorism agencies, financial regulators, and the intelligence community," said the Treasury document given to Reuters. (Activist Post) Read more.
- Lord God, once again we cry out and we wonder what happened to "The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated"? Obama's legal team seems to be ignoring another cornerstone of our Constitution: the Fourth Amendment in the Bill of Rights.
We thank You, dear Lord, that our protection is in You and by Your shed blood. We ask that You command angels to turn the hearts of those in authority, so that we be kept safe from the unnecessary invasion of our privacy. Thank You, Lord, for hearing our prayer, in Your name, amen.
- "And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive."
(Matthew 21:22)
10. THE BIG BANKS ARE RECKLESSLY GAMBLING WITH OUR MONEY
WILL CAUSE THE GLOBAL FINANCIAL SYSTEM TO COLLAPSE
Have you ever wondered how the big banks make such enormous mountains of money? Well, the truth is that much of it is made by gambling recklessly. If they win on their bets, they become fabulously wealthy. If they lose on their bets, they know that the government will come in and arrange for the banks to be bailed out because they are "too big to fail". Either they will be bailed out by the government using our tax dollars; or, as we just witnessed in Cyprus, they will be allowed to "recapitalize" themselves by stealing money directly from our bank accounts.
So if they win, they win big. If they lose, someone else will come in and clean up the mess. This creates a tremendous incentive for the bankers to "go for it", because there is simply not enough pain in this equation for those that are taking the risks.
If the big Wall Street banks had been allowed to collapse back in 2008, that would have caused a massive change of behavior on Wall Street. But instead, the big banks are still recklessly gambling with our money as if the last financial crisis never even happened. In the end, the reckless behavior of these big banks is going to cause the entire global financial system to collapse. (Activist Post) Read more.
- Please pray against dishonesty and manipulation in the big banks. Pray that the bank executives meet the Lord and that the Holy Spirit opens their eyes to their wicked ways, for they are stealing from their investors.
- "Therefore, I will look to the Lord; I will wait for the God of my salvation;
my God will hear me." ( Micah 7: 7)
11. DHS CAN SEIZE GOLD, SILVER, AND GUNS FROM SAFETY DEPOSIT BOXES
According to in-house memos now circulating, the DHS has issued orders to banks across America which announce to them that "under the Patriot Act" the DHS has the absolute right to seize, without any warrant whatsoever, any and all customer bank accounts, to make "periodic and unannounced" visits to any bank to open and inspect the contents of "selected safe deposit boxes."
Further, the DHS "shall, at the discretion of the agent supervising the search, remove, photograph or seize as evidence" any of the following items "bar gold, gold coins, firearms of any kind unless manufactured prior to 1878, documents such as passports or foreign bank account records, pornography or any material that, in the opinion of the agent, shall be deemed of to be of a contraband nature. . . "
If people have their emergency money in a safe deposit box or an account in a bank that closes, they will not be allowed into the bank to get it out. They can knock on the door and beg to get in but the sheriff's department or whoever is handling the closure will simply say "no" because they are just following orders. (Infowars) Read more. Reported by HNN News.
- Enough is enough. Man's laws simply MUST obey God's laws, or they will backfire in the face of our government. It is clearly written in His Ten Commandments: "THOU SHALT NOT STEAL." It's time for payback . . . decree it together. Amen.
- "Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, 'VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY,' says the Lord." (Romans 12:19)
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Focus on Gun Control
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Focus on Gun Control
- UN ADOPTS LANDMARK TREATY TO REGULATE GLOBAL ARMS TRADE
- SENATOR CRUZ: UN ARMS TREATY "MUST NEVER BE RATIFIED"
- REP. STEVE STOCKMAN MOVES TO KILL SENATE GUN BAN IN THE HOUSE
- OBAMA: "GUN CONTROL WILL NOT LEAD TO CONFISCATION OF FIREARMS"
- FIREARMS RISK PROTECTION ACT: GUN OWNERS MAY PAY $10,000 FINE
1. UN ADOPTS LANDMARK TREATY TO REGULATE GLOBAL ARMS TRADE
The U.N. General Assembly overwhelmingly approved the first international treaty regulating the multibillion-dollar global arms trade Tuesday, after a more than decade-long campaign to keep weapons from falling into the hands of terrorists, warlords, organized crime figures and human rights violators.
Loud cheers erupted in the assembly chamber as the electronic board flashed the final vote: 154 in favor, 3 against and 23 abstentions.
"This is a victory for the world's people," U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said. "The Arms Trade Treaty will make it more difficult for deadly weapons to be diverted into the illicit market. . . It will be a powerful new tool in our efforts to prevent grave human rights abuses or violations of international humanitarian law."
The United States, the world's biggest arms exporter, voted yes.
What impact the treaty will actually have remains to be seen. It will take effect 90 days after 50 countries ratify it, and a lot will depend on which ones ratify and which ones don't, and how stringently it is implemented.
As for its chances of being ratified by the U.S., the powerful National Rifle Association has vehemently opposed it, and it is likely to face stiff resistance from conservatives in the Senate, where it needs two-thirds to win ratification. (Washington Post) Read more.
- Our prayer request aligns with the reaction by Senator Ted Cruz and others. Please see below.
2. SENATOR CRUZ: UN ARMS TREATY "MUST NEVER BE RATIFIED"
While the U.N. General Assembly overwhelmingly approved the first international treaty attempting to regulate the $60 billion global small arms trade on Tuesday, the measure is likely to be dead on arrival in the U.S. Senate as Republicans have repeatedly voiced concerns that such a measure is a backdoor attempt to usurp Second Amendment gun rights.
"UN Arms Treaty should be rejected outright by US Senate," tweeted Texas Sen. Ted Cruz on Tuesday. "It is international gun regulation, plain and simple & it must never be ratified."
Even before the international document was drafted, the Senate last month voted to prevent the United States from entering into such an arms treaty with all 45 Republicans and eight Democrats, supporting an amendment drafted by Oklahoma Sen. James M. Inhofe. The measure would require two-thirds approval for ratification by the upper chamber, which has a total of only 100 seats.
"The U.N. Arms Trade Treaty is another attempt by internationalists to limit and infringe upon America's sovereignty," said Inhofe in a statement. "Such a treaty would require the United States to implement laws as required by the treaty, instead of the national controls that are currently in place. This would also disrupt diplomatic and national security efforts by preventing our government from assisting allies like Taiwan, South Korea, or Israel when they require assistance. I will continue to mount strong opposition to any effort by Secretary Kerry and the State Department to ratify this treaty."
Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott on Tuesday wrote to President Obama urging him not to sign the Arms Trade Treaty, calling it a "threat to Americans' constitutional liberty" and threatening legal action.
"If you sign it, and if the U.S. Senate ratifies the treaty, Texas will lead the charge to have the treaty overturned in court as a violation of the U.S. Constitution," wrote Abbott in the letter. (Newsmax) Read more.
- We agree with the statements, above, made by Senators Ted Cruz and James Inhofe, and by Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott -- this treaty, if signed into law, will abrogate both the sovereignty of our nation, and our right to bear arms under the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution. The momentum towards passage must be stopped here and it must be stopped now. Declare the decree; stand in the gap; write your senators (not congressmen) and voice your opinion. It is time for combined PRAYER AND ACTION to see our freedom secured from invasion by the New World Order. Amen.
- "This far you may come and no farther; here is where your proud waves halt."
(Job 38:11)
3. REP. STEVE STOCKMAN MOVES TO KILL SENATE GUN BAN IN THE HOUSE
Rep. Steve Stockman (R-TX), the same congressman that blasted Barack Obama back in February for using fake Twitter message to fight for gun control, announced in a press release that he will automatically kill the Senate Democrats sweeping new anti-gun bill using a House "blue slip." This comes as three senators band together to filibuster the legislation.
So what is this "blue slip" you ask? According to the press release:
A "blue slip" is a resolution that automatically returns to the Senate any bill that violates the "origination clause" of the United States Constitution. The origination clause states "All Bills for raising Revenue shall originate in the House of Representatives."
Blue slip resolutions are immediately considered as a matter of constitutional privilege, are debatable for an hour and are not subject to amendment.
"The Democrat gun ban is dead on arrival. I will introduce in the House a blue slip resolution that will automatically kill the Senate gun ban," said Stockman. "Not only are Democrats on the wrong side of public opinion, they are on the wrong side of the Constitution. You can't strip Americans of their gun rights, and you certainly can't do it by having the Senate create a national tax on firearms. They are in violation of constitutional limits on federal power."
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV)'s S 649 is a combination of three anti-gun bills (S. 374, S. 54 and S. 146). These three bills were quickly rammed through the Judiciary Committee without so much as a committee report. That's called tyranny ladies and gentlemen.
Remember that this is the same thing the Socialist Democrats did with Obamacare and it was eventually upheld as constitutional, even though we all know it's not, as a tax. They are following the same approach; putting this legislation on a fast track, ramming it down the American people's throats and all to impose their will on the people. When they push any legislation like this forward in this manner, you can be sure it is bad for America. This is exactly why Senators Rand Paul (R-KY), Ted Cruz(R-TX) and Mike Lee (R-UT) have determined to lead a filibuster which will educate the American people on the subject of the Second Amendment. It's also the reason that Rep. Stockman is doing what he can in the House to stop the Democrats' assault on the Constitution by using the blue slip.
- Offer up a chorus of PRAISE for strong voices in Congress, on both sides of the Hill, who are fighting every day to uphold our rights as American citizens. Please remember that the mainstream media does not (and even seems afraid to) report ALL the news that is happening on the Hill. Could it be that this media wants to keep you and me from knowing the truth of the good news on the Hill?
If we remain in the dark, we slide into a pit of despair, hopelessness and fear. But the TRUTH will set us free!
Please support Congressman Stockman and all other members of your choosing who ARE defending our rights. They are operating under a burden of extreme, unrelenting pressure to cave into the works of darkness.
Support each one in prayer and action and PRAY!
- "Let God arise, and let His enemies be scattered and let those who hate Him flee before Him." (Psalm 68:1)
4. OBAMA: "GUN CONTROL WILL NOT LEAD TO CONFISCATION OF FIREARMS"
Because 'I Am Constrained by a System Our Founders Put in Place'
DENVER (TheBlaze/AP) - Ratcheting up pressure for Congress to limit access to guns, President Barack Obama said Wednesday that recent steps by Colorado to tighten its gun laws show "there doesn't have to be a conflict" between keeping citizens safe and protecting Second Amendment rights to gun ownership. "I believe there doesn't have to be a conflict in reconciling these realities," Obama said in Denver, where he stepped up his call for background checks for all gun purchases and renewed his demand that Congress at least vote on banning assault weapons and limiting access to large-capacity ammunition magazines.
The president dismissed gun owners' concerns that gun control legislation could be a stepping stone to gun confiscation in the U.S., saying "I am constrained by a system our founders put in place." (The Blaze; AP) Read more.
_Lord we pray against the deception perpetrated by this president. We ask that You intervene to reveal all of the President's hidden agendas to the citizens of this nation, and ask that they will not be deceived any longer.
- "The heart of him that has understanding seeks knowledge: but the mouth of fools feeds on foolishness." (Proverbs 15:14)
5. FIREARMS RISK PROTECTION ACT: GUN OWNERS MAY PAY $10,000 FINE
While the Socialists are finally coming out about the reality of the costs that Obamacare will bring and the utter monstrosity it is, others of the Socialist Democrat Party are pushing for gun owners to be forced to purchase liability insurance for gun owners. Those that don't could face fines of $10,000. We told you that when you open the floodgates of allowing the Federal government to mandate purchasing a product there would be more to come. Maloneycare is just another in a long line of legislation that will be coming down the pipe.
Representative Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) introduced her bill, H.R. 1369, along with eight other Socialists in the Democrat Party saying it would be "the first bill to require liability insurance of gun buyers nationwide." (Freedom Outpost) Read more.
- Father God, the price tag of any insurance policy that tries to pay for gunshot related deaths would be exorbitant. We ask for Your intervention to stop this bill before it gets any traction in the Congress.
- "In that day shall the Lord of hosts be for a crown of glory . . . and for strength to them that turn the battle to the gate." (Isaiah 28:5,6)
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In the Courts
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In the Courts
- COLONEL: ANTI-DOMA RULING COULD SILENCE CHAPLAINS
- FEDERAL CIRCUIT COURTS UPHOLD DELIBERATIVE BODY PRAYER
- JUDGE'S "MORNING AFTER" PILL RULING PUTS GIRLS AT RISK
- SUPREME COURT RULINGS ON DOMA/PROPOSITION 8 DUE IN LATE JUNE
- HOMESCHOOL ASYLUM CASE CRITICAL
1. COLONEL: ANTI-DOMA RULING COULD SILENCE CHAPLAINS
Retired Col. Ron Crews warns a ruling against the Defense of Marriage Act could put military chaplains at greater risk for discrimination. Crews, who heads the Chaplain Alliance for Religious Liberty, said DOMA limited the impact when the 'don't ask, don't tell' policy was lifted and gays were allowed to serve openly in the armed forces. Since DOMA is a federal law it governs the military. But Crews believes if it's overturned, chaplains who oppose homosexuality for religious reasons will be silenced and their careers damaged. Gay rights advocates say DOMA dishonors gay veterans by denying benefits to their partners. (CBN News) Read more.
- Father we ask that You protect the ability of our chaplains to speak the truth.
- "Let the lying lips be put to silence; which speak grievous things proudly and contemptuously against the righteous." [Psalm 31:18]
2. FEDERAL CIRCUIT COURTS UPHOLD DELIBERATIVE BODY PRAYER
Last week, two federal courts issued decisions affirming the right of local advisory bodies to open meetings in prayer. Plaintiffs urged the court to ban "prayers in the name of Jesus Christ ( or an religious figure). The court, dismissed the cases, saying that the prayer policies did not constitute a specific religion. Last year Members of the Congressional Prayer Caucus filed an amicus curiae supporting the freedom of the these deliberative bodies to begin their meetings with prayer. (CPC Foundation) Read more.
- This is another cause for rejoicing, as this case has been bathed in prayer since its inception. We want to thank Congressman J. Randy Forbes and the Congressional Prayer Caucus Foundation for keeping us all apprised of the progress and now the ruling on this case, and we thank the Lord for answered prayer. Amen!
- "Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord!" (Psalm 150:6)
3. JUDGE'S "MORNING AFTER" PILL RULING PUTS GIRLS AT RISK
A federal judge's ruling that would allow the abortion-inducing "Morning After Pill" to be purchased over the counter by persons of any age is being met with strong opposition by pro-life groups, which assert that giving the drug to young girls without parental consent or a doctor's prescription is a dangerous scenario.
"This ruling places the health of young girls at risk," Anna Higgins, director of the Center for Human Dignity at the Family Research Council said it a statement. On Friday, Judge Edward R. Korman of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York reversed a 2011 decision by the Health and Human Services (HHS) to limit access to the "emergency contraceptive" to young women 17 or older.
Janet Morana, executive director of Priests for Life, called the judge's decision "totally irresponsible."
"I would not want my daughters to be taking medication without a doctor's consent or my knowledge, Morana said, adding that the decision also flies in the face of those who oppose abortion for moral and religious reasons.
In his ruling, Korman called the HHS directive to the FDA to limit access without a prescription to women 17 or older "political intervention" by the Obama administration, ahead of the 2012 election. Korman said in his ruling that the HHS directive was a "politically motivated effort to avoid riling religious groups and others opposed to making birth control available to girls."
The morning-after pill contains a higher dose of the female progestin hormone that is in regular birth control pills and if taken within 72 hours after intercourse, can prevent the fertilized egg from implantation in the uterus. (CNS News) Read more.
- Lord we repent for this abomination, and ask that this ruling be struck down by subsequent courts. We pray for the safety of our young girls, as well as a move of the Holy Spirit to change their hearts from selfish behavior to the love of God. We praise You, Lord, for we know that -- no matter what -- you are in control. We ask again that You would yet show Your mercy to our nation, and forgive us of our sins. In Jesus' Name, amen.
- "For the Word of the Lord is right; and all His works are done in truth." [Psalm 33:4]
4. SUPREME COURT RULINGS ON DOMA/PROPOSITION 8 DUE IN LATE JUNE
Supreme Court Likely to Advance Gay Marriage But Stop Short of Broad Ruling
After two days of highly anticipated courtroom arguments about same-sex marriage, a sweeping ruling on gay rights seems unlikely from the U.S. Supreme Court. But when decisions in both cases come in late June, the result may nonetheless be an important one for advocates of same-sex marriage.
Though it's risky to predict how the court will rule based solely on comments by the justices during the oral arguments, one outcome seemed probable -- a decision striking down the Defense of Marriage Act.
"A decision saying that DOMA is unconstitutional because it discriminates against people based on their sexual orientation, and requiring the federal government to give full recognition to the existing marriages of same-sex couples, would be a huge victory," said Paul Smith of the Washington, D.C., law firm of Jenner & Block. (NBC) Read more.
- Now that the nine justices of the United States Supreme Court have retired to their chambers to begin deliberating their opinions and verdicts on both of these "gay rights" cases, it is more important than ever to hold each one up before the Lord, in prayer. Indeed, this is a "Judeo- Christian court," comprised of six Catholics, and three Jews. Surely, they must know the law of God; and sure they must consider Him in their findings. Nothing is too difficult for God; trust Him to speak to each justice, even as he or she is asleep in the night. Amen.
- "In a dream, in a vision of the night,
When deep sleep falls upon men,
While slumbering on their beds,
Then He opens the ears of men,
And terrifies them with warnings." (Job 33:15,16)
The names of the nine Justices of the United States Supreme Court are:
* Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr.
* Justice Antonin Scalia
* Justice Anthony M. Kennedy
* Justice Clarence Thomas
* Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg
* Justice Stephen G. Breyer
* Justice Samuel A. Alito, Jr.
* Justice Sonia Sotomayor
* Justice Elena Kagan
5. HOMESCHOOL ASYLUM CASE CRITICAL
(Purcellville, VA)-Because they were being persecuted and threatened for homeschooling their children in Germany, where it is illegal, in January 2010, the Romeike family was granted political asylum by U.S. Immigration Judge Lawrence O. Burman. Immediately, however, the Obama administration appealed the case. The following is an important update:
Focus on the Family spokesman and Truth Project founder Dr. Del Tackett [last week] declared his support for HSLDA's efforts to defend the Romeike family. Tackett believes that the U.S. government is siding with the restrictive homeschooling laws in Germany and that this could have serious implications for American homeschoolers.
"[The U.S. government] doesn't believe that parents have a right to educate their children," Tackett said. "It is more in line with the National Education Association that homeschooling shouldn't be allowed. It believes that the government can best educate 'America's children.' It doesn't want another worldview taught in this country. It wants America's children to have one worldview and one worldview only."
In 2008, the Romeikes fled their home in Germany after facing fines and jail time and came to the U.S. seeking asylum, but now, the Obama Administration is opposing their quest for asylum by saying homeschooling is too vague and amorphous to be protected under asylum law. Their case is now set to be argued in the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals on April 23 by HSLDA Chairman Mike Farris.
In addition to representing the family in court, HSLDA has also launched a petition on WhiteHouse.gov calling on the Obama Administration to "grant full and permanent legal status to Uwe and Hannelore Romeike and their children." Tackett applauded the petition and urged people to sign it. "This will be the first time that I have advocated signing a petition, but I believe this is a critical issue, one that is being played out behind big media coverage and one that could put a deep chill in the rights of parents in this country to determine the educational direction of their children," he said. "We are appreciative of the support from Focus on the Family and encourage others to get behind these modern day Pilgrims who came to America to seek religious freedom for themselves and their children," said Farris. (Breaking Christian News)
- Once again today, we advocate PRAYER AND ACTION in order to secure the rights of this family, and for homeschoolers everywhere. Please join us in declaring the decree below. Thank you.
- "When a man's ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him." (Proverbs 16:7)
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Video for the Week
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Video for the Week:
Gun Control in Australia
Take about 5 minutes and watch this, it is worth the time investment. Pay close attention to the statistics related to crime as well as the types of crime.
We suggest you send it to other people you know and try to get the broadest possible distribution.
This is right around the corner.
To view this video, go here.
> > > We don't want this to happen here . . .
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This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
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This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
KING OF KINGS
(Mehlekh Ha M'lahk-heem)
On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written:
KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS. (Rev. 19:16)
That You are the King of all the kings who ever was, are or ever will be, is sometimes too much for me to fully comprehend. But I am thankful to be Your child. Thank You for the imperishable inheritance that awaits me from the KING OF KINGS. Amen.
( Source: THE NAME- HaShem: Daily Devotional Worship by Dr. Barri Cae Mallin)
Available on Amazon.com by going here:
http://www.amazon.com/THE-NAME-HaShem-Devotional-Worship/dp/1439263396
