Today's Daily Brief - Friday, March 30, 2007

"Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him; and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him: even so. Amen." (Rev. 1:7)


1. Bush Visits Walter Reed; Apologizes for Poor Conditions - AP

President Bush apologized Friday for the poor conditions of the military health-care system endured by U.S. soldiers recovering from injuries suffered in Iraq and Afghanistan. “The system failed you and it failed our troops,” Bush said during a visit to Walter Reed Army Medical Center. “We’re going to fix it.”

• As President Bush has interacted with these soldiers today, ask our Lord to turn His heart in His direction, as Mr. Bush continues to make decisions about possible future armed conflicts. • "The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD, Like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes." (Prov. 21:1)

2. $2.9 Trillion Budget Clears House With 216 - 210 Vote - Washington Times

The House yesterday narrowly passed a $2.9 trillion budget resolution for fiscal 2008 that increases spending for children's health care, education and defense while pledging to balance the budget by 2012. Democrats, who crafted the proposal, say it restores fiscal responsibility in the federal government after 12 years of Republican control. Republicans called the budget "reckless" and said it will lead to the largest tax increase in history. The resolution now must be reconciled with a similar Senate version passed last week.

• May the Democratic Congress know through the power of the Holy Spirit that it is He who gives the increase and not our own efforts. May all evil budget plans be destroyed for Your honor and glory, Lord! • "But our God is in heaven; He does whatever He pleases. Their idols are silver and gold, the work of men's hands. Those who make them are like them, so is everyone who trusts in them. You who fear the Lord, trust in the Lord. May the Lord give you increase more and more, you and your children." (Psalm 115: 3,4,8,11a & 14 NKJV)

3. Senator Clinton Touts Universal Health Care Plan - ABC News

Democratic presidential hopeful Hillary Rodham Clinton vowed Monday to create a universal health care system if elected, saying she "learned a lot" during the failed health care effort of her husband's presidency. In a related ABC News editorial, it was stated that "Mrs. Clinton's effort to impose Hillary-Care on an unwilling nation was a historic blunder. While Mrs. Clinton had qualifications, there was no possible defense for the notion that she was the country's most qualified individual to retool the American health-care system. In short, the president's selection of his wife for such an important task was an outrageous act of nepotism." • Gracious Lord, we do not need man to set universally accepted health parameters for health standards that You have already outlined in Your Word! Please stop this artificial solution to suppport homosexuality, AIDS, abortion and other abominable health practices that You condemn. • "Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; but we will remember the name of the Lord, Our God." (2 Chronicles 20: 14 NKJV)

4. Massive Storm Spawns Dozens Of Tornadoes In U.S., Kills 4 People - International Herald Tribune

Sixty-five tornadoes were reported late Wednesday in Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas, Colorado and Nebraska, the National Weather Service said. A twister Thursday afternoon in Oklahoma City injured at least five people — two of them critically.

• As the psalmist praised God from His creation, may we continue to thank Him regardless, for good and bad weather. • "Praise the Lord from the earth, you great sea creatures and all the depths; fire and hail, snow and clouds; stormy wind, fulfilling His word." (Psalm 148: 7-8 NKJV)

5. China Has Gained And Tested Array Of Space Weapons - Washington Times

China is developing an "impressive" array of space weapons, including missiles and jammers, and is moving toward placing nuclear weapons in space to attack U.S. satellites, the commander of U.S. strategic forces told the Senate yesterday.

• Let us pray for an end to China's misguided power madness. It is only through faith in Christ that you have true strength. • As Jesus said: "Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy; and nothing shall by any means hurt you." (Luke 10: 19 NJKV)

6. Russia Ups Spying - NY Sun

Russia has fully restored its espionage capabilities against America after a period of decline following the Cold War, a senior American counterintelligence official said Thursday. This comes in light of Russian military intelligence services reporting a flurry of activity by U.S. Armed Forces near Iran's borders.

• May Russia's heavy handed Cold War tactics be a thing of the past. • "Do not envy the oppressor, and choose none of his ways; for the perverse person is an abomination to the Lord, but His secret counsel is with the upright." (Proverbs 3:31-32 NKJV)

The Middle East in Focus

The Middle East in Focus

This week, for all the headlines cited below, please join us in proclaiming THIS DECREE:

"May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer." (Psalm 19:14)

1. Olmert tells Post: 'Not one refugee can return' - Jerusalem Post

While the Prime Minister's Office had no formal reaction to the Arab League's land-and-refugees-for- peace initiative relaunched in Riyadh on Thursday, Prime Minister Ehud Olmert told The Jerusalem Post there is absolutely no wiggle room on the refugee issue.

2. Construction of massive IDF base gets government go-ahead - Ha'aretz

The government on Thursday is expected to approve the construction of a town in the Negev that will accommodate several army training camps currently located in the center of Israel, Haaretz has learned.

3. Report: Peres calls for direct talks between Israel and Arabs - Ha'aretz

Israel hold direct talks on peace with Arab states, Vice Premier Shimon Peres said Thursday after Arab leaders renewed a peace offer first drafted by Saudi Arabia in 2002.

4. 'Arrow can fully protect against Iran' - Jerusalem Post

Recent modifications made to the Arrow enable Israel's ballistic missile defense system to successfully intercept and destroy any ballistic missile in the Middle East, including nuclear-capable missiles under development by Iran, Arieh Herzog, the head of the Defense Ministry's Homa Missile Defense Agency, has told The Jerusalem Post.

5. White House slams Pelosi's planned visit to Syria - CNN

The White House has criticized House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's plans to stop in Syria during a Middle East trip that began Friday. "We discourage members of Congress to make such visits to Syria," said White House deputy spokeswoman Dana Perino. "This is a country that is a state sponsor of terror." Pelosi is scheduled to meet with Syria's president next weekend, according to Syria's ambassador to the United States. 5. White House slams Pelosi's planned visit to Syria - CNN The White House has criticized House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's plans to stop in Syria during a Middle East trip that began Friday. "We discourage members of Congress to make such visits to Syria," said White House deputy spokeswoman Dana Perino. "This is a country that is a state sponsor of terror." Pelosi is scheduled to meet with Syria's president next weekend, according to Syria's ambassador to the United States.

Iran in the News

Iran in the News

“He shall deliver you in six troubles, yes, in seven no evil shall touch you.”
(Job 5:19)

1. Oil Prices Top $66 as Iran Fears Persist - Fox News

Crude oil prices surged above $66 a barrel Thursday, driven to a new six-month high by concerns that strained relations between Iran and the West could put oil exports in jeopardy as U.S. gasoline supplies wane and demand swells.

2. Iran note ties nuclear stance to fear of attack - CNN; AP

Iran, in a confidential letter posted Friday on an internal Web site of the U.N. nuclear monitor, said its fear of attack from the United States and Israel prompted its decision to withhold information from the agency. In the letter, Iran said the U.N.'s International Atomic Energy Agency had repeatedly allowed confidential information crucial to the country's security to be leaked.

The IAEA, in response, urged Iran to reconsider, saying the decision would be in defiance of the monitor's 35-nation board. Both the Iranian document and the confidential IAEA response were made available to The Associated Press.

3. Iran note shows no effort to end crisis: UK - Reuters

An Iranian diplomatic note gives no sign that Teheran is seeking a resolution to the detention of 15 British navy personnel seized in the Gulf, British Foreign Secretary Margaret Beckett said on Friday. In an interview with Reuters and the BBC, she declined to comment on the note in detail but said: “What I would say is that there’s nothing in the letter which suggests that the Iranians are looking for a way out of this difficult situation. “We have been looking for a way out of it for them, for us and particularly for our service personnel from the very beginning. I wish I saw any sign that this is what Iran is trying to do,” Beckett said on the sidelines of a meeting of European Union foreign ministers in the German city of Bremen.

4. American investors in Bahrain advised to leave - DEBKA

The advice came from officers with US Central Command 5th Fleet HQ at Manama, who spoke of security tension, a hint at an approaching war with Iran. Arab sources report the positioning of a Patriot anti-missile battery in Bahrain this week; they say occupancy at emirate hotels has soared past 90% due mostly to the influx of US military personnel. They also report Western media crews normally employed in military coverage are arriving in packs.

5. UAE Won't Participate In US Moves Against Iran - Worthy News

The president of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), forbade the US military from using bases in his country to attack or spy on Iran as mammoth US Navy maneuvers in the Gulf entered their second day. Sheik Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who leads this key US ally, said Tuesday that the Emirates had assured Iran that it was not siding with Washington in its dispute over Teheran's nuclear program. Leaders of Arab nations around the Gulf have grown increasingly uneasy with the tough US stance toward Iran, believing any outbreak of war would bring Iranian retaliation on their own soil, which lies in easy reach of Iranian missiles. (Note: There is no defined boundary separating the UAE from Saudi Arabia. After the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks on the U.S., the UAE was identified as a major financial center used by al- Qaeda in transferring money to the hijackers, and two of the 9/11 hijackers were UAE citizens.)

• As David prayed for help in his time of chastening before the Lord, so may we remember to plead His mercy when our nation's "friends" desert us! • "Those also who seek my life lay snares for me; those who seek my hurt speak of destruction, and plan deception all the day long. For in You, O Lord, I hope; You will hear, O Lord my God. For I said, 'Hear me, lest they rejoice over me, lest, when my foot slips, they exalt themselves against me.'" (Psalm 38: 12, 15-16 NKJV)

6. Middle East Pondering Possible U.S. Attack on Iran- CNSNews.com

As U.S.-British tensions with Iran escalate, many in the Middle East are discussing the possibility -- some say probability -- of a U.S. attack on the Islamic Republic. The Arab press, particularly, is focused on the possibility of a U.S. strike against Iran. Iran, which has long provoked Israel and the West with its nuclear development program, has now earned itself another slap on the wrist from the international community. On Thursday, the U.N. Security Council issued a statement expressing "grave concern" over Iran's capture of 15 British sailors. The U.K. wanted a stronger statement -- one "deploring" the hostage- taking, but Russia reportedly opposed that suggestion. This is not the first time that Iran has defied the United Nations. It is currently flouting a U.N. demand to halt its uranium enrichment program -- a process that can be used for building an atomic bomb.

• Just as Jonah cried out to You, Lord, for deliverance from his aquatic prison; so we cry out to You, Lord, for help with our nation's deliverance from our enemies in Iran, the Middle East and worldwide! • " I cried out to the Lord because of my affliction, and He answered me." (Jonah 2:1 NKJV)

7. Iran 'Doesn't Fool Anyone' - AP

Tony Blair condemns treatment of captives after Iranian TV shows alleged confession by one of 15 detained sailors.

30 Congress Members Call America Back to Prayer

Congress Members Call America Back to Prayer

Virginia Congressman J. Randy Forbes and over 30 other Members of Congress from 19 states held a bi- partisan press conference on the West Steps of the U.S. Capitol to call America back to prayer at noon on Wednesday, March 28, 2007.

Members of Congress are issuing a "Call to Prayer" for America and asking individuals across the country to commit to pray five minutes each week asking God to heal our land. Although representing different denominations and belonging to different political parties, these members unite in recognizing the importance of prayer in our country and in the belief that God will answer our prayer. You are invited to sign up with them to pray for our nation at www.prayercaucus.org.

In early 2005, a small group of members of the U.S. House of Representatives began meeting in Room 219 of the Capitol to pray for our nation. Soon thereafter, these Members formed The Congressional Prayer Caucus – an official caucus of the U.S. House – to formally acknowledge their conviction in the important role that prayer plays in American life and history and to monitor and work to guard the right of individuals in America to pray. Their vision served as the inspiration to form a private, non-partisan, non- profit foundation designed to encourage and support the call of America back to prayer – The Congressional Prayer Caucus Foundation, Inc.

To find out more about the Congressional Prayer Caucus Foundation, Inc. please visit the website at www.prayercaucus.org, email info@prayercaucus.org or contact the CPCF office phone at (757) 546-2190 or (757) 677-6375.

• Join us in offering a great chorus of praise that our Lord has moved upon the heart of Congressman Randy Forbes and 30 other members of the U.S. House of Representatives to begin this very strategic work. Praise the Lord!!

• "Let every thing that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord!" (Psalm 150:6)

The Peace Of Jerusalem Arab Style

The Peace Of Jerusalem Arab Style

The more the Arabs attempt to polish their concepts for peace in the Middle East, the more apparent is their heart’s desire of eliminating Israel from the face of the earth. The news media and the U.S. State Department is applauding a re-launch of the Arab Leagues’ “Arab Initiative” peace plan for Israel, which was soundly rejected in 2002 by Israel—mainly because it called for Israel to shrink its borders back to pre-1967 levels, give up the holy city of Jerusalem, and allow so-called “Palestinian refugees” the right of return. Nothing has changed in five years, except that the U.S. State Department under the leadership of the Bush Administration has encouraged this peace initiative to be reintroduced.

The Arab Initiative was brought forth by Jordan’s King Abdullah. He said, “Peace between the Arab states and Israel cannot be reached until Israel works constructively and seriously and demonstrates her respect and commitment to the Arab Initiative, a unanimously approved proposal. In this context, we appreciate the American Administration's role in recent weeks in activating the peace process to achieve the establishment of the Palestinian state on Palestinian soil. The Arab Peace Initiative shows the Arab World's clear intentions and desire to realize a just and comprehensive peace.”

In Abdullah’s remarks we see certain Arab concepts of peace. One is that Israel, not the Palestinians or Arabs, must work constructively with the Arab states. Another is that the U.S. has encouraged the Arabs to push for a Palestinian state on Palestinian soil. And the other concept is an Arab worldview of a “just and comprehensive peace.” These translate into demands that Israel give in to the Arab plan; that the U.S. will pressure Israel to consider it; and that a “just and comprehensive peace,” as Abdullah put it, means the ultimate elimination of Israel because the Arab Initiative calls for repopulating pre-1967 Israel with over two million Arabs and the establishment of yet another hostile nation on Israel’s borders.

Democratically elected terrorist group Hamas says it is against the plan because it would have to recognize Israel’s right to exist. Democratically elected terrorist group Fatah takes a longer range view—recognize Israel and then drive her into the sea from a position of strength—Fatah’s stated goal in its charter. The Bush Administration has bungled the Middle East by supporting the election of terrorists and calling for a shrinking of Israel’s borders. Israel needs to decide its own destiny because it has no true friends. And that’s not good for America. Jeremiah 6:14 says, “They have healed also the hurt of the daughter of My people slightly, saying peace, peace when there is no peace.”

Have a Blessed and Powerful Day!

Bill Wilson
Word of Life Ministry
www.dailyjot.com

ISRAELI ARCHEOLOGIST: FIRST TEMPLE WALL FOUND IN CITY OF DAVID

ISRAELI ARCHEOLOGIST: FIRST TEMPLE WALL FOUND IN CITY OF DAVID

A wall from the First Temple was recently uncovered in Jerusalem's City of David, strengthening the claim that it is the site of the palace of King David, an Israeli archeologist said Thursday. The new find, made by Dr. Eilat Mazar, a senior fellow at the Shalem Center's Institute for the Archeology of the Jewish People, comes less than two years after she said she had discovered the palace's location at the site just outside the walls of the Old City.

The monumental 10th century BCE building found by Mazar in 2005 following a six month dig has ignited debate among archaeologists about whether it is indeed the palace built for the victorious David by King Hiram of Tyre as recounted in Samuel II:5.

A 20-meter-long section of the 7-meter-thick wall has now been uncovered. It indicates that the City of David once served as a major government center, Mazar said. Mazar estimates less than a quarter of the entire wall has been uncovered so far, and says that it is the largest site from King David's time ever to have been discovered. (Jerusalem Post, 3/29/07)

Today's Daily Brief - Thursday, March 29, 2007

1. Crisis of 'Grave Concern' - AP

U.N. statement calls on Iran to release 15 Brits.
Tehran turns up propaganda war, publishes what it claims is 2nd letter from female sailor 'apologizing' for 'wrongdoing.'

• Only the LORD can defuse this increasingly tense situation, which, if not rectified, may soon lead to armed conflict. Cry out to Him in intercession; He knows how to touch men's hearts, bringing calmer nerves again. Ask our Lord to pour out His oil over troubled waters . . . selah. • "Now when they came to Marah, they could not drink the waters of Marah, for they were bitter. Therefore the name of it was called Marah. And the people complained against Moses, saying, “What shall we drink?” So he cried out to the LORD, and the LORD showed him a tree. When he cast it into the waters, the waters were made sweet." (Exodus 15:23-25)

2. Bush renews vow to veto Iraq troop withdrawal - MSNBC
Bush promises veto over pullout
March 28: President Bush has escalated the standoff with Democrats in Congress over the war, arguing they will have to live with the consequences of any pullout deadlines. NBC's David Gregory reports.

President Bush said Wednesday that efforts by congressional Democrats to issue a rebuke of his Iraq policies are nothing more than meddling in military strategy that would have disastrous consequences for Iraq's democracy and America's security.

• Lord You alone can bring about unity in our government by the moving of Your Spirit. We have failed to bring about cohesion in our leadership, and we ask Your forgiveness for the resulting divisions. Lord we, as Your people, humbly ask that You intervene on behalf of our nation and the nation of Iraq to bring about Your perfect will in the earth. • "If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves and pray an d seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land." (2 Chronicle 7:14)

3. Media accused of showing double-standard in coverage of attorney firings - One News Now

A conservative media watchdog group says the liberal news media is once again showcasing a clear double-standard in its coverage of the controversial firings of eight U.S. attorneys by the Bush administration.

• Father we take authority over the news media and declare Your Lordship over them. We pray that any double-standards be removed, and true objectivity be restored. We speak truth to their minds and hearts and release the power of the Holy Spirit to change the methods and motives of the hearts. • "I will return again to My place till they acknowledge their offense. Then they will seek My face; in their affliction they will earnestly seek Me." (Hosea 5:15)

4. Saudi king blasts U.S. military in Iraq - USA Today

King Abdullah denounced the American military presence in Iraq as an "illegitimate foreign occupation" and called on the West to end its financial embargo against the Palestinians.

• Lord we bind the double-mindedness of Saudia Arabia in their relationship to the US. We ask that You reveal truth to them, and that the wind of Your Holy Spirit will move in that country as well as its leadership for the glory of Your Son Jesus. • "Purify your hearts, you double-minded. . ." (James 4:8)

5. Ryan Crocker Sworn In As New U.S. Ambassador To Iraq - AP, NYT

U.S. Ambassador Ryan Crocker was sworn in as the new top U.S. envoy to Iraq on Thursday, saying that he was taking over the 'most critical foreign policy mission' facing his country. One of the State Department's most experienced Middle East hands, Mr. Crocker, 57, has already served as ambassador to Kuwait, Syria, Lebanon and Pakistan, with postings as well to Iran, Qatar, Egypt and Afghanistan.

• Lord we ask Your power and protection over Mr. Crocker as he steps into this position. We pray for prophetic insight into the affairs of Iraq, that Mr. Crocker would be able to provide exceptional leadership towards stability for that nation. • ". . . gifted in all wisdom, possessing knowledge and quick to understand, who had ability to serve in the king's palace . . ." (Daniel 1:4)

6. Senate Panel Approves Zalmay Khalilizad's Nomination As U.S. Envoy To The United Nations - Agence France Presse

A Senate panel on Wednesday approved Washington's outgoing ambassador to Iraq, Zalmay Khalilzad, to be the new US envoy to the United Nations. By a voice vote, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee approved Khalilzad's nomination, which now goes to the full Senate for consideration.

• Lord God, Mighty One of Israel, as this nomination is now weighed before the entire United States Senate, we ask for a miracle: we ask that You would move to block Mr. Kahlilizad from serving in this post. Let a man instead be found who worships YOU, and who thus represents our nation at the "gate of the nations" IN TRUTH, for we ARE "one nation under God" -- the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and none other. We ask for a miracle, Lord. In JESUS' name, amen. • “Sing to the LORD, For He has triumphed gloriously! The horse and its rider He has thrown into the sea!” (Exodus 15:20b)

The Middle East in Focus

The Middle East in Focus

This week, for all the headlines cited below, please join us in proclaiming THIS DECREE:

"May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer." (Psalm 19:14)

1. UN Watchdog censured after accusing Human Rights Council of hypocrisy - Israel Insider

Hillel Neuer, Executive Director of UN Watch, delivered a scorching speech before the UN Human Rights Council 4th Session, accusing the body of blatant hypocrisy in ignoring gross rights violations worldwide except when committed by Israel.

2. Arab League refuses to change plan - Jerusalem Post

Israel adopted a low-key, wait-and-see approach Wednesday night to the Arab League's unanimous decision to relaunch without changes its land-and- refugee-for-peace initiative from March 2002.

3. Air force hits Qassam launchers for first time in five months - Ha'aretz

The air force carried out an attack against Palestinian militants launching Qassam rockets from the Gaza Strip yesterday, the first such offensive mission for a number of months.

4. Most Americans Think Palestinian State Would Be Terror State, Poll Shows - CNS News

By a two-to-one margin, more Americans believe that an independent Palestinian state would be a terrorist state than a democracy, and a majority believes that Israel should not concede any more land to the Palestinians, according to a new poll.

5. Ethiopia closes last remaining Falashmura emigration camp - Ha'aretz

The Ethiopian government closed a camp in Gondar province used as a community center for approximately 7,000 Falashmura Ethiopians awaiting emigration to Israel.

Iran in the News

Iran in the News

“He shall deliver you in six troubles, yes, in seven no evil shall touch you.” (Job 5:19)

1. Russian intelligence sees U.S. military buildup on Iran border - Russian News & Information Agency

Russian military intelligence services are reporting a flurry of activity by U.S. Armed Forces near Iran's borders, a high-ranking security source said Tuesday.

2. U.S. Wraps Up Persian Gulf Exercises - CBN News

The United States wrapped up a massive military exercise in the Persian Gulf Wednesday, putting on a show of strength for Iran even as the United Arab Emirates became the second Gulf nation to declare it would not take part in any attack on the Islamic Republic.

3. 'Do not launch attack from our soil' - Jerusalem Post

The president of the United Arab Emirates forbade the US military from using bases in his country to attack or spy on Iran as mammoth US Navy maneuvers in the Gulf entered their second day.

4. Blair warns Tehran of next 'phase' in standoff - Washington Times; AP

British Prime Minister Tony Blair warned Iran yesterday of a "different phase" in the standoff over 15 detained British sailors and marines, while a former Iranian ambassador with close ties to the regime said Iran wants the release of at least seven of its officials. Meanwhile, Iran's foreign minister said Wednesday that Britain must admit that its 15 sailors and marines entered Iranian waters in order to resolve a standoff over their capture by the Mideast nation.

5. Iranian TV Airs Video of Seized British Troops - Fox News

Iran broadcast the first pictures Wednesday of the 15 British sailors and marines it seized last week, including a female captive who wore a white tunic and a black head scarf and said the British boats had "trespassed" in Iranian waters.

6. Gulf rumours send US crude to six-month high - Financial Times

Escalating geopolitical tensions and tightening supply caused a jump in oil prices Wednesday, taking US crude futures to a six-month high.

Today's Daily Brief - Wednesday - March 28, 2007

1. White House Spokesman Tony Snow Has Cancer Again - AP

White House Press Secretary Tony Snow is once again stricken with cancer after doctors found a cancerous growth in his lower abdomen, the White House announced Tuesday. Snow spoke to President Bush Tuesday morning, who told Snow he and first lady Laura Bush are praying for him.

• We join President and Mrs. Bush in praying for the speedy and full recovery of Tony Snow. • It is written: "By His stripes, we are healed." (Isaiah 54:17)

2. Senate Keeps Withdrawal - AP

Timeline in Spending BillTwo senators — one from GOP — switch votes to leave in place call for U.S. withdrawal from Iraq to start within 120 days. The 50- 48 vote to defeat the amendment was a reversal of a vote earlier this month that rejected a similar timetable. Democrats this time were able to swing the votes of Republican Sen. Chuck Hagel and Democratic Sen. Ben Nelson, both of Nebraska, who previously voted against timetables. Like the last vote, Democratic Sen. Mark Pryor of Arkansas opposed the timetable. Republican Sen. Gordon Smith of Oregon supported it.

• President Bush has promised to veto this bill when it reaches his desk, allowing the troops the freedom to do all that needs to be done to help the Iraqis establish security in their new nation; and keeping the enemy guessing. Stand in the gap for our nation, and ask forgiveness for those who have changed their minds in this vote. Scripture dictates otherwise! • "But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’ For whatever is more than these is from the evil one." (Matt. 5:37)

3. Gonzales Aide to Invoke Fifth Amendment - ABC News

Attorney General Alberto Gonzales' liaison with the White House will refuse to answer questions at upcoming Senate hearings about the firings of eight U.S. attorneys, citing her Fifth Amendment protection against self-incrimination, her lawyer said Monday.

• Begin praying now for those who must judge this complex case. Let justice be served! • "Judge with right judgment." (John 7:24)

4. U.S. Can't Account for 600,000 Fugitives - ABC News

Teams assigned to make sure foreigners ordered out of the United States actually leave are grappling with a backlog of more than 600,000 cases and can't accurately account for the fugitives' whereabouts, the government reported Monday.

• Ask our Lord to turn the hearts of those in authority, so that the necessary funds and manpower/resources are released to get this job done. • "My God shall supply all your need, according to His riches in Glory in Christ Jesus." (Phil. 4:19)

5. Supreme Court to Hear Florida Child Porn Case - Fox News

The Supreme Court agreed Monday to decide the constitutionality of a child pornography law that a lower court criticized as criminalizing merely talking about illegal images.

• Pray that the Supreme Court justices be granted clarity and discernment as they judge this critical case. Pray that the children of America be kept safe from online pornography and pornographers. • "It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were thrown into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones."(Luke 17:2)

The Middle East in Focus

The Middle East in Focus

This week, for all the headlines cited below, please join us in proclaiming THIS DECREE:

"May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer." (Psalm 19:14)

1. Flood of Sewage in Gaza Kills at Least 4 - New York Times

At least 4 people were killed today in the northern Gaza Strip and more than 30 injured when a sewage system collapsed, flooding a village with waste water, according to the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees.

2. Poll: Over two-thirds Palestinians say Hamas failed - Israel Insider

According to a recent poll by An-Najah University, a significant number of Gaza Palestinians, more than two-thirds, believe the Hamas leadership has failed in its role as head of the government, reported Army Radio Monday.

3. UN chief slams 'sad and tragic' results of Israeli wall - Scotsman

Ban Ki-Moon, the secretary-general of the United Nations yesterday toured a Palestinian refugee camp and spoke of the "very sad and tragic" results of the controversial security wall erected by Israel.

4. Israel, US disagree on new ME approach - Jerusalem Post

Jerusalem's objections to US shuttle diplomacy between Israel and the Palestinians over final-status issues led to the postponement Monday night of a press conference at which US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice was expected to outline this new initiative, senior diplomatic officials said Monday.

5. Olmert and Abbas to meet biweekly, Rice says - Ynet News

The Israeli and Palestinian leaders have agreed to meet every two weeks to discuss day-to-day issues, but also a "political horizon," US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice announced Tuesday, after shuttling between the two sides for three days.

Iran in the News

Iran in the News

“He shall deliver you in six troubles, yes, in seven no evil shall touch you.” (Job 5:19)

1. Iran Resumes Payments to Russia for Nuclear Power Plant - Fox News

The Russian state-run company building Iran's first atomic power plant said Monday that Tehran has made its first payment toward the long-delayed construction of Bushehr plant since a dispute over financing halted construction.

2. UK has Proof of Sailors Innocence - Financial Times

UK officials said that if the personnel are not returned in the next few days, Britain will go public with what it says are proofs they were in Iraqi waters when apprehended by the Iranians, rather than, as charged by Tehran, in Iranian territory.

3. China, Russia put more pressure on Iran - MSNBC

The presidents of Russia and China on Monday called on Iran to fulfill the U.N. Security Council’s demands over its disputed nuclear program -- a sign of impatience from Iran’s two closest allies over its continued defiance.

4. Sanctions hit Iran's Revolutionary Guards - USA Today

The Bush administration is using the nuclear standoff with Iran to target the Iranian Revolutionary Guards, accused by the United States of backing extremists in the Middle East, carrying out terror attacks and arming Iraqi militia groups.

CHRISTIANS ENDING THREE-DAY CELEBRATION IN JERUSALEM

CHRISTIANS ENDING THREE-DAY CELEBRATION IN JERUSALEM
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Beautiful Artwork by Duncan Long, used by permission

More than 200 Evangelical Christians are expected to arrive in Israel on Tuesday for the “Jerusalem Assembly,” a three-day marathon of events, celebrating 40 years of the reunification of Jerusalem. The Knesset Christian Allies Caucus (KCAC) partnered with the Texas-based Christian Covenant Alliances to put on the event.

“Celebrating the nearly forty years since the reunification of Jerusalem, Covenant Alliances will bring a delegation of more than two hundred Christian Zionist leaders for the US, Canada, England Africa and Israel who will highlight their love and dedication to the State of Israel," the statement said.

It added that “top Evangelical pastors will take this opportunity to present a love letter to Israel,” a document pledging their ‘undying love’ for the Jewish people.”

The group would also present a ‘Letter of Repentance’ asking forgiveness for the crimes committed by Christians against the Jews throughout history.

• The letter said, “On behalf of millions of Christians who love Israel and pray for her, we would like to repent before you for crimes committed against the Jewish people throughout history in the name of Christianity. We have sinned against God and against you.” The letter will be presented to Knesset (parliament) Members Benny Elon, Gilad Erdan and Orit Noked and to the Knesset Christians Allied Caucus. (Israel Today, 3/27/07)Offer praise to our King of Kings and our Lord of Lords that this day has arrived. Give thanks, too, for the many others who have participated in similar events over the past years. Now that an act of repentance and reconciliation is being offered between Christian and Jew, the door is open to greater works in the days ahead. Praise God!

• "I have loved you with an everlasting love." (Jeremiah 31:3)

Source: Intercessors for America

Christians plan 'Jerusalem Assembly'

Over 200 Evangelical Christians will arrive in Israel to celebrate capital's reunification ~ Yaakov Lappin
<- MK Benny Elon

Over 200 Evangelical Christians from around the world will arrive in Israel on Tuesday to launch 'the Jerusalem Assembly,' a three-day marathon of events designed to celebrate the capital's reunification some 40 years ago.

The event has been organized by the Knesset Christian Allies Caucus (KCAC), in conjunction with the Texas-based Christian Covenant Alliances, a press release said.

" Celebrating the nearly forty years since the reunification of Jerusalem, Covenant Alliances will bring a delegation of more than two hundred Christian Zionist leaders for the US., Canada, England Africa and Israel who will highlight their love and dedication to the State of Israel," the statement said.

It added that "top Evangelical pastors will take this opportunity to present a 'love letter to Israel", a document pledging their 'undying love' for the Jewish people."

"They will then present the 'Letter of Repentance" to the Knesset Christian Allies Caucus, in which they will request forgiveness for the crimes Christians have committed against the Jewish people throughout history," the statement said.

"On behalf of millions of Christians who love Israel and pray for her, we would like to repent before you for crimes committed against the Jewish people throughout history in the name of Christianity. We have sinned against G-d and against you," a quote from the letter read.

The letter will be handed to Knesset Members Benny Elon, Gilad Erdan and Orit Noked, all members of the KCAC.

Today's Daily Brief - Tuesday, March 27, 2007

1. US seeks new push for peace in Middle East - London Telegraph

America has signaled a new desire to help negotiate an end to the Israeli-Palestinian dispute, ending years of diplomatic aloofness by the White House.

• Pray for the gospel of Jesus Christ to go our through the nations (especially those that are resistant to the gospel). For it is only Christ who can bring true peace to the world! Pray that Israel will be protected from anything that would go against her freedoms and her land! • "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." (John 14:27)

2. Democrats Defend Plan for Iraq Pullout - ABC News

The Democrats' plan to bring U.S. troops home from Iraq next year responds to voters' demand for change, New Hampshire Rep. Paul Hodes said Saturday. The Senate will vote on its version of the pullout this week.

• Pray that the Senate and Congress will not be able to pull the troops out of Iraq until God says it is time. Pray they will seek the Lord for wisdom! We are limited in vision – but God sees the whole picture and He knows what is best for our nation! • "But from there you will seek the Lord your God, and you will find Him if you seek Him with all your heart and with all your soul." (Deuteronomy 4:29)

3. White House Stands By Attorney General - AP

The White House stood by Alberto Gonzales on Monday, even as support for the embattled attorney general erodes on Capitol Hill amid new questions about his honesty. However, the White House was placing the onus on Gonzales to explain himself to lawmakers. The attorney general is scheduled to testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee on April 17.

• We pray that our government will only be addressing the pressing issues of national security, health care, and other serious matters and not get diverted on partisan things. • "Only may the Lord give you wisdom and understanding, and give you charge concerning Israel, that you may keep the law of the Lord your God." (1 Chronicles 22:12)

4. Terror Database Has Quadrupled In Four Years - Washington Post

Each day, thousands of pieces of intelligence information from around the world -- field reports, captured documents, news from foreign allies and sometimes idle gossip -- arrive in a computer-filled office in McLean, where analysts feed them into the nation's central list of terrorists and terrorism suspects.

• Pray that there will be no abuse concerning a terror database and that our intelligence teams will be able to come up with programs that do contain important information on the activities and plans of terrorists around the world! • "When you are in distress, and all these things come upon you in the latter days, when you turn to the Lord your God and obey His voice (for the Lord your God is a merciful God), He will not forsake you nor destroy you, nor forget the covenant of your fathers which He swore to them." (Deuteronomy 4:30,31)

5. Pro-Life Group Presses for 'Day of the Preborn' - (CNSNews.com)

A pro-life group on Monday launched a year-long petition drive to have March 25 officially declared the "Day of the Preborn."

• Pray that more people – especially post-abortion women -- will have the courage to speak out against this national tragedy of the deaths of the unborn through people’s conscientious “choice.” Pray for the repentance of abortion which pollutes our land and mocks God! • "So you shall not pollute the land where you are; for blood defiles the land, and no atonement can be made for the land, for the blood that is shed on it, except by the blood of him who shed it." (Genesis 9:6)

6. Lesbian Asks Court to Ban Gay Adoptions - NewsMax.com

Sara Wheeler's life has become a contradiction. Once a proud lesbian, she's now a pariah in the gay community. Once in a committed relationship with a female partner, she's rethinking her sexuality. And now she's doing something she once would have considered unthinkable — arguing that gays don't have the legal right to adopt children.

• Pray that all homosexual and lesbian people’s blinders will come off to see their sin, and they will accept Christ into their hearts faithfully forever! • "Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness, And for His wonderful works to the children of men! For He has broken the gates of bronze, and cut the bars of iron in two." (Psalms 107:15,16)

7. U.S. Forces Arrest Leaders Of One Of The Deadliest Car-Bomb-Making Networks In Baghdad - USA Today

U.S. forces have arrested the leaders of one of the deadliest car-bomb-making networks in Baghdad, a military spokesman said. After months of intelligence gathering, U.S. troops captured the ringleader of the Rusafa car bomb network and three of his lieutenants on Wednesday.

• Offer praise to the Lord for EVERY VICTORY we achieve now in Iraq -- known and unknown! • "He uncovers deep things out of darkness, and brings the shadow of death to light." (Job 12:22)