In This Issue• On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVIII, No. 5a-1
• On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVIII, No. 5a-2
• TAKE ACTION NOW FOR ISRAEL
• This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
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On Capitol Hill This Week - Volume XVIII, Number 5a
January 31 - February 4, 2011
INTERNATIONAL ISSUES: SPECIAL EDITION
"For the kingdom is the LORD's: and he is the governor among the nations." (Psalm 22:28)
Please note: This edition of the OCAP is also available on our blog. You can visit our blog by going here. Thank you!
NOTE TO OUR READERS:
The second section of this edittion of the "OCAP" will be published on Sunday night, focusing on domestic issues.
On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVIII, No. 5a-1
1. EGYPT IN TURMOIL
2. A PRAYER STRATEGY FOR EGYPT IN THIS HOUR
3. EGYPT PROTESTS LEAVE OBAMA STUCK
4. THOUSANDS PROTEST IN JORDAN
5. WITHOUT EGYPT, ISRAEL WILL BE LEFT WITH NO FRIENDS IN THE MIDEAST
6. IRAN SEES RISE OF ISLAMIC HARD-LINERS
7. LEBANON BRACES FOR NEW, HIZBULLAH-FRIENDLY GOVERNMENT
8. EGYPTIAN MILITARY PROTECTING U.S. EMBASSY
9. UPDATE: BREAKING NEWS OUT OF EGYPT
1. EGYPT IN TURMOIL
And I will set the Egyptians against the Egyptians: and they shall fight every one against his brother, and every one against his neighbor; city against city, and kingdom against kingdom...And the LORD shall be known to Egypt, and the Egyptians shall know the LORD in that day, and shall do sacrifice and oblation; yea, they shall vow a vow unto the LORD, and perform it. And the LORD shall smite Egypt: he shall smite and heal it: and they shall return even to the LORD, and he shall be entreated of them, and shall heal them..In that day shall Israel be the third with Egypt and with Assyria, even a blessing in the midst of the land: Whom the LORD of hosts shall bless, saying, Blessed be Egypt my people, and Assyria the work of my hands, and Israel mine inheritance. (Is. 19:2, 21-22, 24-25)
Egypt is in turmoil. Inspired by a successful popular revolt in Tunisia, anti-government protestors have taken to the streets in Cairo and other Egyptian cites, determined to overthrow President Mubarak autocratic rule. Tens of thousands of Egyptians are fed up with Mubarak's inattention to their common needs. For thirty years, Mubarak has ruled with impunity, suppressing dissent and imprisoning those who disagree with his form of government.
A poor economy, high unemployment and large youthful population have served as a catalyst to fuel these demonstrations. Egypt has a population of some 80 million people, a giant in the Middle East. This population is growing by an estimated 2% a year. An estimated 2/3 Egypt's citizens are under 30, with this age group also accounting for 90% of the unemployed. Another 40 percent live on less than $2 a day, and 1/3 are illiterate.
The United States views President Mubarak as a vital ally and a bulwark of Middle Eastern Peace. The US, espousing democratic ideals in this region, prefers to support this dictatorship sending billions of dollars of military aid and economic assistance to secure his allegiance. President Mubarak is 82 years old and in declining health. Rumors fueled by Twitter reports and other social networks have also reported President's Mubarak's wife, daughter and son Gamal fled to London along with 97 suitcases!. Gamal Mubarak 47 has been chosen by his father to succeed him. Egyptian officials have denied these claims. (End-Time Handmaidens and Servants; House of Prayer)
Footnote from Reverend Gwen Shaw, Founder and President, End-Time Handmaidens and Servants:
I am very burdened for the situation in Egypt. President Mubarak's family has fled to England. Ever since the terrorist attack on the Coptic Christians on Dec 31 (Just after midnight), killing 25, and badly wounding over 100, it seems like Satan has risen up to fight for a nation he has controlled for hundreds of years. Pray for the safety of all the Christians. God give them courage in this hour of fiery trial.
- PLEASE PRAY for the restoration of peace and order; for restraint on the part of the military; for encouragement of the Egyptian people that their concerns will be listened to and acted upon in a just manner; that there will be NO MORE violence; and that God will have His hand on the leadership of Egypt. (So far Pres. Mubarak has not bowed to the people's desire for his ouster, and in fact has placed el Baradei, his political opponent, under house arrest. The Muslim Brotherhood may also be waiting in the wings.)
2. A PRAYER STRATEGY FOR EGYPT IN THIS HOUR
- Pray that the LORD would use the tears of His people in Egypt, who are crying out for deliverance from the hand of tyranny, as "seed" that those who have not yet considered Christ will find Him as their Comforter and Savior.
- "Again I looked and saw all the oppression that was taking place under the sun: I saw the tears of the oppressed- and they have no comforter; power was on the side of their oppressors- and they have no comforter." (Eccl. 4:1)
"So shall He sprinkle many nations. Kings shall shut their mouths at Him; For what had not been told them they shall see, And what they had not heard they shall consider." (Isaiah 52:15)
3. EGYPT PROTESTS LEAVE OBAMA STUCK
As Egyptian Unrest Builds, Obama Left With Two Bad Options
As 30-year Egyptian ruler Hosni Mubarak clings to power and protesters continue to storm the streets of Cairo for a fifth straight day, the Obama administration is increasingly looking at a choice between two bad options. On one side is Mubarak, who has presided over a corrupt government and meager economy without holding free elections and is now paying the price. Unfortunately for President Obama, he's a key U.S. ally and recipient of billions in U.S. military aid.
On the other side is the big unknown. Though many protesters are not taking to the streets armed with religious slogans, analysts warn that the Islamist Muslim Brotherhood -- an outlawed, but significant, opposition group -- could be jockeying to take power if Mubarak falls. And if they do, Egypt's peace with Israel, friendliness toward the West and key role in the Israeli-Palestinian talks could be in jeopardy. No wonder the White House keeps insisting it's not taking sides. . . (Fox News) Read more.
- No matter what happens, stand against the takeover of Egypt by radical Islamic forces, including the Muslim Brotherhood. The last thing we need now in the Middle East is the birth of another radical Islamic regime, bent on carrying out the tenets of Islamic law and destroying the nation of Israel. Pray that a third leader will emerge from this chaos . . . the man (or woman) of God's own choosing. Pray!
- "When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice, But when a wicked man rules, the people groan." (Proverbs 29:2)
4. THOUSANDS PROTEST IN JORDAN
Protesters gather across the country, demanding the prime minister step down.
Thousands of people in Jordan have taken to the streets in protests, demanding the country's prime minister step down, and the government curb rising prices, inflation and unemployment. In the third consecutive Friday of protests, about 3,500 opposition activists from Jordan's main Islamist opposition group, trade unions and leftist organisations gathered in the capital, waving colourful banners reading: "Send the corrupt guys to court". The crowd denounced Samir Rifai's, the prime minister, and his unpopular policies. Many shouted: "Rifai go away, prices are on fire and so are the Jordanians.''
Another 2,500 people also took to the streets in six other cities across the country after the noon prayers. Those protests also called for Rifai's ouster.
Members of the Islamic Action Front, the political wing of the Muslim Brotherhood and Jordan's largest opposition party, swelled the ranks of the demonstrators, massing outside the al-Husseini mosque in Amman and filling the downtown streets with their prayer lines. As they broke into a procession, the demonstrators chanted, "In the name of God, the government must change" and the Muslim holy(????) book "Koran is our constitution, jihad is our path." (Al-Jazeera) Read more.
- We view reports like these with alarm, because they bear witness to the fact that Islam has an aggressive agenda and does, indeed, want to take over the nations. The Moslem Brotherhood, in particular, is infamous in its efforts to infiltrate governments with their own people in order to influence policy and eventually to take over a nation. Offer praise that God sits in the heavens and laughs (Psalm 2:1,2), and that He has everything under control. Let Him arise, and let His enemies be scattered now in the nation of Jordan. Amen.
- So it was, whenever the ark set out, that Moses said: "Rise up, O LORD! Let Your enemies be scattered, and let those who hate You flee before You." (Numbers 10:35)
5. WITHOUT EGYPT, ISRAEL WILL BE LEFT WITH NO FRIENDS IN THE MIDEAST
The fading power of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak's government leaves Israel in a state of strategic distress. Without Mubarak, Israel is left with almost no friends in the Middle East; last year, Israel saw its alliance with Turkey collapse. From now on, it will be hard for Israel to trust an Egyptian government torn apart by internal strife. Israel's increasing isolation in the region, coupled with a weakening United States, will force the government to court new potential allies.
. . . the "cold peace" with Egypt was the most important strategic alliance Israel had in the Middle East. The security provided by the alliance gave Israel the chance to concentrate its forces on the northern front and around the settlements. Starting in 1985, peace with Egypt allowed for Israel to cut its defense budget, which greatly benefited the economy.
. . . [Now] the friendship between Mubarak and Netanyahu is based on a mutual fear over Iran's strengthening and the rising power of Islamists, as well as over the weakening and distancing of the U.S. government with Obama at its head. (Ha'aretz) Read more.
- As the nations round about Israel retreat from standing with her, pray that her people will begin to "look up" to the only One who has all power to help her, to save her, to rescue her, and to deliver her from her enemies. Pray for the peace (shalom) of Jerusalem.
- "I will lift up my eyes to the hills-
From whence comes my help?
My help comes from the LORD,
Who made heaven and earth.
He will not allow your foot to be moved;
He who keeps you will not slumber.
Behold, He who keeps Israel
Shall neither slumber nor sleep." (Psalm 121:1-4)
6. IRAN SEES RISE OF ISLAMIC HARD-LINERS
Hopeful that the protests sweeping Arab lands may create an opening for hard-line Islamic forces, conservatives in Iran are taking deep satisfaction in the events in Tunisia, Egypt and Yemen, where secular leaders have faced large-scale uprisings. ..."In my opinion, the Islamic Republic of Iran should see these events without exception in a positive light," said Mohammad-Javad Larijani, secretary general of the Iranian High Council for Human Rights and one of the most outspoken figures among Iran's traditional conservatives.
Some here have even echoed the pan-Islamic rhetoric of the founder of the Islamic Republic, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. "Today, as a result of the gifts of the Islamic revolution in Iran, freedom-loving Islamic peoples such as the peoples of Tunisia, Egypt and nearby Arab countries are standing up to their oppressive governments," said a leading hard-line cleric, Ayatollah Mohammad-Taghi Mesbah-Yazdi, who is believed to have influence with President Ahmadinejad. (New York Times) Read more.
- Continue to lift up the brave men and women inside Iran who are working towards regime change. Pray that the scales of the current leadership will fall off their eyes, for they have been blinded to the truth of the Gospel by the lies of Islam. Pray for the overthrow of the government of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Pray for a miracle.
- "The way of the wicked He turns upside down." (Psalm 146:9d)
7. LEBANON BRACES FOR NEW, HIZBULLAH-FRIENDLY GOVERNMENT
Lebanon's new prime minister, billionaire Najib Mikati, spent his first day in office Wednesday [January 26] seeking to assuage doubts among Lebanon's non-Shiite population and the West. But observers said Mikati was starting a difficult assignment as leader of a religiously-fractured country beset by foreign interference and deep divisions over whether to cooperate with a United Nations investigation into the 2005 assassination of Prime Minister Rafik Hariri.
Mikati's chief asset is that he was nominated for the post by Hizbullah, the Shiite movement that brought down the last government and commands a militia that outguns Lebanon's official army.
But Makiti will have to convince the U.S. and the West he isn't leading Lebanon into the arms of Iran and Syria, Hizbullah's backers. He will also have to convince Lebanon's Sunni Muslim and Christian communities he is a leader for the entire nation.
"The complaint that Mikati isn't representative is correct," Eugene Sensenig-Dabous, a political scientist at Lebanon's Notre Dame University told The Media Line. "If his government holds, it would mean that the March 8 Alliance [Hizbullah's political bloc] has bid farewell to comprehensive participation in decision making." (Excerpt: The Media Line) [Reported by: Bridges for Peace]
- Pray that the new government of Lebanon will be legitimate, functioning without outside interference and truly guarding the welfare of the Lebanese people.
- "The angel of the LORD encamps all around those who fear Him, and delivers them. Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him!" (Psalm 34:7-8).
8. EGYPTIAN MILITARY PROTECTING U.S. EMBASSY
The Egyptian military is protecting the U.S. Embassy as protesters continue to take to the streets in opposition of President Hosni Mubarak, a senior U.S. defense official told Fox News. The official said the U.S. Embassy so far has not made a request for an evacuation, though the United States has evacuations plans at the ready for its embassies around the world. "This is an issue for the Egyptian government and Egyptian security forces, but we are clearly concerned," the official said. "We are clearly watching developments." The Egyptian Army moved in to protect the U.S. site almost immediately, the official said.
A full evacuation would be a daunting task in the middle of such turmoil. There are 50,000 Americans estimated to be in Egypt, but the official said a full evacuation could cover as many as 85,000 people, some of whom are third-party nationals which the United States is "responsible for."
- In the current, dangerous environment inside Egypt, pray for the safety of all Americans now in that country. For those who must leave, pray for a safe evacuation.
- ALL OF PSALM 91 FOR AMERICANS IN EGYPT.
9. UPDATE: BREAKING NEWS OUT OF EGYPT
Police Fire on Protestors in Cairo
Massive anti-government demonstrations are sweeping through downtown Cairo, defying a government curfew and demanding the ouster of President Hosni Mubarak. Tanks and armored personnel carriers fanned out across the city of 18 million, guarding key government buildings. But the curfew was largely ignored -- by the looters who ran rampant, by protesters, and apparently by soldiers under orders to enforce it. Police have opened fire on a massive crowd of protesters in downtown Cairo, killing at least one demonstrator. Thousands of protesters are trying to storm the Interior Ministry located in the heart of the city. (Fox News)
Mubarak Appoints a Vice-President
Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, who has not picked a vice president since his took office in 1981, appointed his intelligence chief and confidante Omar Suleiman to the post, the official news agency said on Saturday. The vice president is the post that Mubarak occupied before he was appointed president. (Fox News)
- PLEASE PRAY for the restoration of peace and order; for restraint on the part of the military; for encouragement of the Egyptian people that their concerns will be listened to and acted upon in a just manner; that there will be NO MORE violence; and that God will have His hand on the leadership of Egypt. (So far Pres. Mubarak has not bowed to the people's desire for his ouster, and in fact has placed el Baradei, his political opponent, under house arrest. The Muslim Brotherhood may also be waiting in the wings.)
- "For the kingdom is the LORD's: and he is the governor among the nations." (Psalm 22:28)
On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVIII, No. 5a-2
FOCUS ON ISRAEL:
1. INDEPENDENT PANEL FINDS GAZA BLOCKADE LEGAL
2. JEWISH AGENCY: RAID LED TO GLOBAL ANTI-SEMITISM
3. IRELAND UPGRADES PALESTINIAN MISSION
4. ABBAS: NO STATE WITHOUT ISRAEL'S COLLABORATION
5. PALESTINIANS DRAW LINE-IN-THE-SAND FOR WHITE HOUSE
6. PRESIDENT OBAMA TO WITHHOLD VETO AS U.N. CONDEMNS ISRAEL
7. ISRAEL TO SIGN COOPERATION AGREEMENT WITH EUROPEAN SPACE AGENCY
1. INDEPENDENT PANEL FINDS GAZA BLOCKADE LEGAL
IDF Soldiers Acted in Self Defense
An independent panel cleared the Israeli military and government from any wrongdoing in the Israeli navy's interception of a Gaza-bound flotilla last May, according to a report released Sunday.
In its first report, the Turkel Committee established in Israel as a commission of inquiry into the incident, found that Israel's enforcement of a naval blockade was, "found to be legal pursuant to the rules of international law."
The maritime blockade of the Gaza Strip, determined legal by the Turkel Committee, was established by Israel in 2007 as the Hamas terrorists seized control of the region and continued to launch thousands of rockets into Israel.
Although Israel allowed thousands of tons of humanitarian aid and goods through Gaza border crossings, political activists tried to break the naval blockade nearly a dozen times, with the largest such attempt, more than 600 activists, setting sail last May.
On May 31, 2010, Israeli naval officers attempting to board the Mavi Marmara, the biggest boat in the six-ship Gaza-bound flotilla, were met with violent resistance from the boat's passengers and nine activists were killed.
The panel determined that the Israeli soldiers were acting in self defense and did not violate international law. The commission also reached the conclusion that the marine blockade was justified in light of the security concerns and was imposed in accordance with the rules of international law.
The committee, which includes four appointed members from Israel and two foreign observers-Nobel Peace Prize laureate Lord William David Trimble and Brigadier-General (Ret.) Ken Watkin-heard the testimony of 27 witnesses over the course of 15 days of open proceedings and the testimony of 12 witnesses behind closed doors. (Embassy of Israel; Washington, D.C.)
- Offer praise for this good report. Amen,
- "Surely the righteous shall give thanks unto thy name; the upright shall dwell in Thy presence, ye thankful. " (Psalm 40:13)
2. JEWISH AGENCY: RAID LED TO GLOBAL ANTI-SEMITISM
Though the Turkel committee cleared the Israel Defense Forces [IDF] and Israel of any illegal actions during the May 31 [Gaza] flotilla raid, a Jewish Agency report says the deaths of the nine Turkish citizens on board unleashed a surge of anti-Semitism throughout the world.
The agency's report says that although most protests against the raid did not end in violence, it sparked at least 15 incidents of retaliation against Jews in France, among them an attack against a Jewish teen in the Paris underground. Firebombs were also thrown at a Jewish retirement home.
The report adds that physical harm is done to Jews or Jewish institutions nearly every day, especially in Europe, with France being the leader in such incidents. Belgium, Holland and Sweden are also seen as dangerous abodes of anti-Semitism. (By Yael Branovsky, Ynetnews, January 23, 2011)
[Reported by: Bridges for Peace]
- Pray that the Lord will protect His people across the globe as anti-Semitism continues to threaten them everywhere. Pray that the use of the Internet to spread vicious anti-Jewish rhetoric will be ended.
- "I cried out to You, O LORD: I said, 'You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living. Attend to my cry, for I am brought very low; deliver me from my persecutors, for they are stronger than I. Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise Your name; the righteous shall surround me, for You shall deal bountifully with me.'" (Psalm 142:5-7)
3. IRELAND UPGRADES PALESTINIAN MISSION
The Irish government decided Tuesday [January 25] to upgrade the Palestinian diplomatic mission in the country. Ireland is the first European Union member to announce such a move, which was initiated by the Irish foreign minister. However, the upgrade does not constitute Irish recognition of a Palestinian state.
The Irish Foreign Ministry made it clear that in spite of its decision to upgrade the status of the Palestinian diplomatic mission in Dublin, it is in no way an embassy, nor does it receive the full diplomatic privileges and immunities. Those will only be given if Ireland were to recognize a Palestinian state officially.
The ministry noted that the decision supports Ireland's long-time support for the establishment of a Palestinian state and the Palestinian Authority's [PA] progress in constructing its institutions. (By Ronen Medzini, Ynetnews, January 25, 2011)
[Reported by: Bridges for Peace]
- Pray that this summit will be of no effect and that the feared resolution will not materialize.
- "A wicked man hardens his face, but as for the upright, he establishes his way. There is no wisdom or understanding or counsel against the LORD." (Prov. 21:29-30)
4. ABBAS: NO STATE WITHOUT ISRAEL'S COLLABORATION
Palestinian Authority [PA] head Mahmoud Abbas on Saturday [January 22] ruled out declaring a Palestinian state without Israel's "collaboration." In an interview with Al-Jazeera television, Abbas said, "A Palestinian state will be established only with an agreement from Israel."
But he also admonished that repercussions could be serious if Israel withholds its support for the move, warning that "it could lead to an Intifada or a popular Palestinian uprising." Under the plan created by [PA] Prime Minister Salam Fayyad, a declaration of statehood will follow a period during which institutions and infrastructure necessary to support a state will be perfected.
Fayyad told the Los Angeles Times on Saturday that the timetable for this is on schedule for completion by late August of this year, but that there needs to be reconciliation between the Fatah and Hamas factions before statehood can be a reality.
Ironically, it might be the internecine issue rather than differences with Israel that ultimately delays the declaration. (By The Media Line, January 23, 2011)
[Reported by: Bridges for Peace]
- Pray that the Lord will continue to guard over Israel and confirm her right to exist as a Jewish state. Pray that the process of negotiation and any attempt to declare statehood would proceed only in compliance with His will.
- "Moreover I will appoint a place for My people Israel, and will plant them, that they may dwell in a place of their own and move no more; nor shall the sons of wickedness oppress them anymore, as previously." (1 Chronicles 17:9)
5. PALESTINIANS DRAW LINE-IN-THE-SAND FOR WHITE HOUSE
A top Palestinian official has thrown down the gauntlet at President Obama's feet: withhold America's veto of a pending U.N. Security Council resolution condemning Israel's policy of building on land it acquired in the 1967 war [East Jerusalem and the West Bank, also known as Judea and Samaria] or lose credibility as primary broker of the peace process.
The challenge came from Palestinian negotiator Nabil Shaath, who, speaking through reporters in Doha, told the president, "If you use the veto against this resolution, you will forever lose what's left of your credibility as a sponsor of the peace process."
The U.S. has said the resolution is "unhelpful" because only a negotiated settlement can bring peace. But according to a tally by the Palestinians, the Security Council's other 14 votes are already pledged to support the resolution. (By The Media Line, January 26, 2011)
[Reported by: Bridges for Peace]
- Pray that the United States will use its vote to send a clear message of support for Israel regardless of threats from the Arab block.
- "Deliver me from my enemies, O my God; defend me from those who rise up against me. Deliver me from the workers of iniquity, and save me from bloodthirsty men." (Psalm 59:1-2)
6. OBAMA TO WITHHOLD VETO AS U.N. CONDEMNS ISRAEL
Obama has indicated that he will refuse to veto, thus allowing a Palestinian Arab motion in the UN this week which condemn Israel for its "settlements" on "Palestinian occupied land" in the West Bank and Jerusalem. If he approves of this anti Israeli motion Obama will be the first president to allow this condemnation to go through the Security Council of the UN. The effect of this censure would make all Israeli communities illegal as well as large portions of "Eastern Jerusalem." By failing to block such a motion, the US is throwing itself in league with hostile Arab nations which are seeking to undermine Israel's legitimacy as a nation. Obama is also thus signaling his approval of the setting 1967 armistice lines as official borders for Israel, thus forcing this nation to accept this mandated division. This refusal on Obama's part will send US-Israel relations into a crisis. (House of Prayer, Jerusalem; End-Time Handmaidens)
- Rabbi Jonathan Bernis is circulating a petition to voice your protest against this threatened action by the Obama administration against Israel. Please see below for further details.
Cry out to the LORD that He would move the heart of Barack Hussein Obama to reverse this decsion, which now endangers "the apple of His eye." PRAY!
- "The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, Like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes." (Proverbs 21:1)
7. ISRAEL TO SIGN COOPERATION AGREEMENT WITH EUROPEAN SPACE AGENCY
The sky is the limit - Israel on Sunday will sign a cooperation agreement with European Space Agency ESA. According to the agreement, the two will collaborate on various fields of space science, including astronomy, astrophysics, solar system research, space and satellite engineering, environmental pollution monitoring and meteorology.
In addition, they will conduct joint research on natural disasters and hold space experiments in zero gravity conditions, as well as biological and medical research and space applications for urban planning and surveillance.
"The agreement with the ESA shows that Israel is considered a leading power in the field of space research," Science and Technology Minister Daniel Hershkowitz told Yedioth Ahronoth.
"The framework agreement will promote projects that serve a mutual interest, such as scientist exchange and information exchange, joint conferences and cooperation between research institutions," he added. (YnetNews) Read more.
- Offer praise that Europe is recognizing Israel in this strategic agreement. Pray that --
"on earth, as it is in heaven" -- that "earth" will follow suit and the nations will also recognize and respect Israel's sovereignty on the land. Pray that this agreement will serve as the needed breakthrough for improved relations between Israel and the nations of Europe. Amen.
- "The LORD hath done great things for us; [wherefore] we are glad." (Psalm 126:3)
TAKE ACTION NOW FOR ISRAEL
RABBI BERNIS: TAKE ACTION NOW ON BEHALF OF ISRAEL
We have just received this message from Rabbi Jonathan Bernis, President and CEO of Jewish Voice Ministries International:
I NEED TO ASK FOR YOUR IMMEDIATE PRAYERS AND ACTION!!
The United Nations Security Council is considering a resolution right now that would declare illegal "all Israeli settlement activity in the Occupied Palestinian Territory."
If this resolution passes, it will threaten Israel's very survival!
In simple terms, this proposed resolution would unilaterally end any negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians about the terms of a future separate state. The "Occupied Palestinian Territory" is all the land that was captured in the '67 war - a war Israel did not start and did not want - but I believe, it was a war that God supernaturally enabled Israel to win to secure her future.
This proposed resolution flies in the face of the facts and in the face of past UN action. Noted legal scholar and commentator Alan Dershowitz describes this as an attempt to "retroactively rewrite [UN] Resolution 242 . . . 44 years after it was enacted."
Incredibly, fourteen of the fifteen members of the Security Council say they support this resolution-every member other than the United States! That means that unless the U.S. vetoes the resolution, it will pass - and the consequences will be deadly.
Sadly - it is not at all clear that the United States intends to act to defend Israel!
That's why it's urgent that every friend of Israel speak out immediately against this effort to use the power of the United Nations to undermine Israel's safety and security.
Today I'm asking you to do TWO things:
1. Sign a petition to President Obama urging him to defend Israel by vetoing this resolution.
2. Please pray and forward this email to all of your friends and ask them to add their voices to ours and then forward it on to THEIR friends.
The leaders of the nation of Israel have repeatedly said that American believers have been their most faithful supporters. Today we must stand for Israel again - We cannot let them down now, in this crucial hour.
Take Action Now: read and sign the petition to Obama
Thank you for being willing to support the nation of Israel in this important way.
God bless you for being a blessing to God's Chosen People.
Rabbi Jonathan Bernis
President and CEO of Jewish Voice Ministries International
Please forward this email to all of your friends for their support!
Volume XVIII, Number 5b
DOMESTIC ISSUES
THE OBAMA ADMINISTRATION
1. STATE OF UNION ADDRESS: LONG ON RHETORIC; SHORT ON SUBSTANCE
2. WHITE HOUSE LOBBIES FAITH LEADERS FOR PRO-ABORTION OBAMACARE
3. RENEWED PUSH TO GIVE OBAMA AN INTERNET "KILL SWITCH"
4. OBAMA TO PUSH GUN-CONTROL MEASURES
5. REP. RANDY FORBES REINTRODUCES "IN GOD WE TRUST" RESOLUTION
1. STATE OF UNION ADDRESS: LONG ON RHETORIC; SHORT ON SUBSTANCE
The following is a statement from Andrea Lafferty, executive director of Traditional Values Coalition, on tonight's State of the Union address:
"Tonight's speech was long on clichés and rhetoric, but very short on substance. Any new spending schematic must focus first and foremost on the most basic building block of American society -- the family."
"Spending freezes are not enough -- working families desperately need less government and more tax relief. Small businesses need to be liberated from the red tape strangling American innovation. Our energy industry should explore all energy options, while not excluding opportunities for existing reserves of natural resources here. Most of all, Americans deserve a simple and fair tax system, not a plan pits economic classes against one another. . . "
"The American people sent a strong message in last year's election to Washington. Tonight's speech demonstrated Obama simply did not receive the message." (Traditional Values Coalition)
- Father, we thank You that in Your Word you have given us clear directions to guide our lives as individuals, families, communities and nations. No invention or philosophy of man will succeed if it departs from Your Word. We pray that You will give the one occupying the Presidential Office for the United States of America the realization that You are the one and only true God; that Your Word is true; that in You and Your way only, lay the answers to the nation's challenges; that You act and show Yourself "strong" on behalf of those whose hearts follow You.
- "For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him . . ." (2 Chr. 16:9 KJV)
2. WHITE HOUSE LOBBIES FAITH LEADERS FOR PRO-ABORTION OBAMACARE
Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius is holding a conference call today in what is a new bid by the Obama administration to lobby religious leaders to support the Obamacare law in the face of a congressional repeal effort. With the House having already voted for the repeal bill and Republicans in the Senate moving on two fronts to promote it there, the Obama administration is feeling the heat over the health care reform law, which fails to stop abortion funding with taxpayer dollars or rationing.
The administration bills the call as one helping "faith and community leaders to discuss how the Affordable Care Act is helping Americans across the country gain more freedom and control in their health care choices." Some religious left leaders who have upset pro-life Christians over their support for Obama and his pro-abortion agenda will join Sebelius on the call - including Rev. Joel Hunter of Northland Church in Florida.
Others participating in the lobbying effort include Rev. Linda Hanna Walling of Faithful Reform in Health Care; Right Rev. Barry Howe, an Episcopal bishop; Rabbi Marcia Zimmerman of Temple Israel in Minneapolis; and Bishop Roy Dixon of the Church of God in Christ denomination.
But Deal Hudson, the head of Catholic Advocate who has conducted religious outreach on the presidential level, says there is no whitewashing the fact that the Obamacare legislation allows abortion funding. (LifeNews.com)
- We are seeing the height of audacity when politicians think that they can move people to relinquish their religious convictions to satisfy a political agenda. Have these politicians no consciences nor any respect? The American people have shown time and again that they disapprove of abortion in particular and Obamacare in general.
Ask our Lord to forgive both the politicians and the clergy who are mentioned in this article. Especially pray for Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, as she holds an important office but lacks godly wisdom to do what is right. Pray that the only thing that is "aborted" in this lobbying effort is the effort, itself. Pray!
- "Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust, and does not respect the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies." (Psalm 40:4)
3. RENEWED PUSH TO GIVE OBAMA AN INTERNET "KILL SWITCH"
A controversial bill handing Obama power over privately owned computer systems during a "national cyberemergency," and prohibiting any review by the court system, will return this year. President Obama would then have the power to "issue a declaration of a national cyberemergency." What that entails is a little unclear, including whether DHS could pry user information out of Internet companies that it would not normally be entitled to obtain without a court order. One section says they can disclose certain types of non-communications data if "specifically authorized by law," but a presidential decree may suffice.
A draft Senate proposal that CNET obtained in August 2009 authorized the White House to "declare a cybersecurity emergency," and another from Sens. Jay Rockefeller (D-W.V.) and Olympia Snowe (R-Maine) would have explicitly given the government the power to "order the disconnection" of certain networks or Web sites. House Democrats have taken a similar approach in their own proposals. (CBN)
• Lord, we pray for people to wake up, and be keenly vigilant about the rights that are being taken from us. Let them push back strongly against these measures.
• The wicked in his pride persecutes the poor; let them be caught in the plots which they have devised - He has said in his heart, "I shall not be moved; I shall never be in adversity." (Psalm 10:2,6)
4. OBAMA TO PUSH GUN-CONTROL MEASURES
Obama's decision to push new gun-control measures in the wake of the mass shootings in Tucson, Ariz., is out of character and faces dubious prospects with a new Republican majority in the House. Though he omitted any reference to gun control in his State of the Union address, three of Obama's key advisers assured reporters the issue is on the president's to-do list.
"He's going to address this," senior adviser David Plouffe told NBC News. "It's a very important issue and I know there's going to be a lot of debate on the hill."
Added press secretary Robert Gibbs, "I wouldn't rule out that at some point the president talks about the issues surrounding gun violence. I don't have a timetable or, obviously, what he would say." Read more at the Washington Examiner:
- Father, we take a stand now, against the ungoldy philosophy that advocates using a "crisis" to promote a political agenda. We declare as the children of the One True and Living God, that this tragedy in Tucson WILL NOT be used to promote any political agendas. We pray for wisdom directly from Your throne to rule in legislation regarding guns; that the Constitution of the United States of America will be strictly adhered to in this regard; that hidden agendas would be revealed and brought into the light. We also pray that the hearts of our legislators and citizens will be led to consider their mortality because of this tragic incident, and that You would reveal to them the truth of who You are and Your love for them.
- "Now therefore, thus says the LORD of Hosts: "Consider your ways!" (Haggai 1:5)
5. CONGRESSMAN RANDY FORBES REINTRODUCES "IN GOD WE TRUST" RESOLUTION
Congressional Prayer Caucus Advises President on our National Motto
Congressman Randy Forbes (R-Va) reintroduced his resolution to reaffirm 'In God We Trust' as our national motto. (H.Con.Res.13). Forbes wants to reaffirm the motto in light of President Obama having stated incorrectly on several occasions that our national motto is "E pluribus unum." Forbes is the founding member of the Congressional Prayer Caucus.
In a letter dated December 6, 2010, by the members of the Congressional Prayer Caucus, Congressman Forbes stated:
"'E Pluribus Unum' is not our national motto. In 1956, Congress passed and President Eisenhower approved the law establishing 'In God We Trust' as the official national motto of the United States. This motto is also referenced in our national anthem and is engraved on our coins and currency."
- Offer praise for this bold stance taken by the 67 members of the Congressional Prayer Caucus in helping this president understand that our national motto IS "In God We Trust." How blessed we are as a nation to have these words as our national motto. Pray that this bill passes without obstacle into law and that this law becomes one emulated by each of our 50 states. People have forgotten the blessings of this motto. Immigrants have stated that they came to America because they saw these words on our coins. Call Rep. Forbes to let him know that you support this bill and thank him for introducing it into the House of Representatives. His phone number is: 202-225-6365.
- Thus says the LORD: " Stand in the ways and see, And ask for the old paths, where the good way is, And walk in it; then you will find rest for your souls. (Jer. 6:16)
On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVIII, No. 5b-2
IN CONGRESS
1. NEW SENATE RULES WILL STREAMLINE SENATE BUSINESS
2. THE "REINS ACT": REGULATIONS FROM THE EXECUTIVE IN NEED OF SCRUTINY
3. MIKE PENCE NOT RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT, GOVERNOR BID LIKELY
4. CONGRESSMAN OFFERS BILL ON RELIGIOUS MINORITIES IN THE MIDDLE EAST
5. KEEP PRESSURE ON CONGRESS TO REPEAL OBAMACARE
6. BILL INTRODUCED IN SOUTH CAROLINA - PROTECTION FROM FOREIGN LAW
1. NEW SENATE RULES WILL STREAMLINE SENATE BUSINESS
Ends Secret "Holds"
The Senate on Thursday approved a standing order curtailing "secret holds" that senators use to anonymously block legislation and nominations, a change that Senate leaders agreed to as part of deal announced on the floor Thursday to avoid some of the procedural battles that have hobbled the chamber in recent years.
The change in the holds procedure would require disclosure of the identity of an obstructionist senator within two days of the time the senator notifies his or her party leader of an intent to place a hold, down from the current six days after a hold is announced on the floor. If the senator does not step forward publicly, the hold would be attributed to that member's party leader."What's different here is every hold will have a public owner and there will be consequences," said Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., one of the sponsors of the secret holds change. "People will be named."
Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., also said they agreed to cut by a third the number of executive branch nominees requiring Senate confirmation. The two also agreed that majority Democrats will allow Republicans to offer more amendments to legislation, and in return Republicans will not block legislation from coming to the Senate floor for consideration. "The Senate should function as the founders intended it to function, and as the country needs it to function, not simply as slow as the rules will allow it to function," Reid said on the Senate floor. (Congressional Chronicle) To read more about the new Senate rule changes, go here.
- We encourage you to follow the link for more news on this issue, so that we can all "pray in the spirit and with understanding" on this important matter. Bottom line: in this new Senate, both sides seem to be working to make practical and wise accommodations to existing rules, so that the traditional "logjam" of Senate activity can be obliterated. As all members begin to work along these new guidelines, pray that all will be done in a spirit of civility and efficiency. Pray that all hidden, private agendas would be dropped so that the will of the American people shall be done. In His Name, amen.
- "Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others." (Phil. 2:3,4)
2. THE "REINS ACT": REGULATIONS FROM THE EXECUTIVE IN NEED OF SCRUTINY
Every year, federal agencies issue thousands of regulations impacting all areas of the United States economy. The regulations are legally binding, but Congress never has to vote on them or approve them. These regulations can be on anything from restricting certain light bulbs to requiring certain heaters or roofs to changing how an industry compensates their employees. They come from unelected bureaucrats in federal agencies. . . Over the past several years, Congress has shown disregard for its Constitutional duty by allowing the executive branch to fill in important details of legislation after it is passed. Likewise, the executive branch has been quick to overstep its authority to use the rule making process to circumvent the will of the people. One of the reasons the Constitution gives the lawmaking, or rule making, duty specifically to Congress is because representatives are held directly accountable for their actions by the people that they represent.
We need to restore a system of checks and balances to federal regulations. This week, I cosponsored a bill that would ensure legislative accountability in Congress and restore the constitutional balance of powers. It would require Congress to take an up-or-down vote on every government regulation deemed a "major rule" before it can be imposed on the American people and businesses. The Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act would do just what it says: rein in the costly overreach of federal agencies that stifles job creation and hinders economic growth. Members of Congress should never have an option to avoid responsibility for the effects of the laws they pass. The bill ensures the responsibility for Congressional decisions is placed on representatives in Congress, as was intended by our founders. (Office of Congressman Randy Forbes)
- Offer a chorus of praise for another initiative, this time introduced on the House side, that will help to streamline our government and definitely make these federal agencies more accountable for their budgets and activities. Pray for passage of the REINS Act.
- "And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him." (I John 5:15)
3. MIKE PENCE NOT RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT, GOVERNOR BID LIKELY
In a long-awaited announcement, pro-life Congressman Mike Pence will not seek the Republican nomination for president and will leave open the possibility of a gubernatorial bid. Pence has ruled out a presidential bid and will tour the state over the next few months as he decides on whether to seek the governor's position or run for re-election to his congressional seat. Pence can't raise funds for a gubernatorial race until April 30 - giving him plenty of time to make a decision. "In the choice between seeking national office and serving Indiana in some capacity, we choose Indiana," Pence said. "We will not seek the Republican nomination for president in 2012."
Pence said he would make a decision "later this year" about his next political step, though he appeared to telegraph his next move saying his "calling is closer to home" and added he would "be traveling across the state to listen and learn about how Hoosiers think we might best contribute in the years ahead. I have learned to follow my heart, and my heart is in Indiana," he added. (Lifesite News)
- Praise the Lord for a man of integrity as is Rep. Mike Pence. We know that he sought the Lord's will for what he should do and listened to the Lord rather than to the voices of men. Perhaps he feels that he needs the experience of being governor before running for president. Continue to lift up Mike Pence and his family in prayer as he moves through this term in the House. The battles will be difficult for a man who represents righteousness in politics. Send angels to protect him as he travels around Indiana and as he works in the Capitol.
- "The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way."
(Psalm 37:23)
4. CONGRESSMAN OFFERS BILL ON RELIGIOUS MINORITIES IN THE MIDDLE EAST
There is increasing violence and targeted attacks against Christians in various Islamic nations including Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Egypt. Congressman. Frank Wolf (R-VA) this week introduced a bill to create a special ambassador from the U.S. State Department for religious minorities in these areas of concern. "If the international community fails to speak out, the prospects for religious pluralism and tolerance in the region are bleak," Wolf said in introducing the bill. "President Ronald Reagan once said that the U.S. Constitution is a 'covenant that we have made not only with ourselves, but with all of mankind.''' Without an international spotlight forcing governments in the region to protect religious minorities, the attacks will continue. (Religious Freedom Coalition)
• Praise the Lord for another good man who has chosen to serve the Lord in politics! Rep. Wolf, who is highly respected on Capitol Hill, l has long stood in defense of the persecuted church throughout the world. Please pray for the passage of his bill without opposition in either the House or the Senate. Why have the American churches been so silent in the face of the violence against Christians worldwide? Many in our State Department will not like this bill because they believe that we have to be friends with the Islamic world to get it to work with us. In fact, we know that the opposite is true. The Moslems back off when they see power.
• "Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established." (Prov. 16:3)
5. KEEP PRESSURE ON CONGRESS TO REPEAL OBAMACARE
Last week the US House of Representatives voted to repeal ObamaCare by a vote of 245 to 189. That's a difference of fifty-six votes - compared to the seven vote margin that the bill passed by last year! But the job is not finished. Now we have to get it passed in the Senate! This week conservative senators introduced their version of the repeal bill with forty-seven co-sponsors. But Harry Reid has promised that he will not allow a Senate vote on the issue.
Remember, the current liberal "health care" scheme will: Mandate taxpayer funding of abortion. Limit our choice of doctors, Cause health care costs to skyrocket - followed by tax increases, Kill American jobs, Cause millions of Americans to lose their current insurance, forcing them on government plans.
- The challenge has been clarified! What will you do? Pray for those "moderate" Republicans and wavering Democrats that they will acknowledge the desires of their constituents and withstand any party pressure to vote against repeal. Senator Reid and the Obama administration think that they hold the power to draw a line in the sand against this vote to repeal Obamacare, but they are mere men. As we face this "Goliath" of opposition to repeal, we come like David with our slingshot, five smooth stones and in the name of the Lord. Get busy in whatever ways you can!
- "But I come to you in the name of the Lord of Hosts, the God of the armies of Israel whom you have defiled." (1 Samuel 17:45b)
6. BILL INTRODUCED IN SOUTH CAROLINA - PROTECTION FROM FOREIGN LAW
A legislative initiative aimed at preventing "a court or other enforcement authority" from enforcing foreign law in the Palmetto State was introduced today in both the S.C. House and Senate by Rep. Wendy Nanney (who drafted the bill) and Sen. Mike Fair respectively, who say the bill will preempt violations of a person's constitutional rights resulting from the application of foreign law.
Legislators and other proponents of the bill say America has unique values of liberty which do not exist in foreign legal systems. Yet foreign laws are increasingly finding their way into U.S. court cases, particularly in the area of family law, involving divorce and child custody where, for instance, Islamic Shariah Law has been invoked in several U.S. states.
According to Christopher Holton with the Washington, D.C.-based Center for Security Policy (CSP), "There are numerous examples in dozens of states in which parties to such a dispute attempted to invoke Shariah." (Human Events) Read more
- Father, We thank You for eyes being opened to the threat of Sharia Law and UN laws pushing their way into the American legal system. We thank You for these legislators in South Carolina who are taking action to maintain the walls of freedom in the United States, gained by the sacrifice of many. We pray that this legislation will become law in South Carolina and spread like "wildfire" to each of the other 49 States, who will be quick to introduce and pass similar Legislation. We ask that You would continue to open the eyes and understanding of our leaders and citizens to this ungoldy invasion, and spur them to take appropriate action.
- "... and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see." (Rev. 3:18)
This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
HOLY (Kadosh)
For this is what the high and lofty One says- he who lives forever, whose name is holy: "I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite." (Isaiah 57:15)
Holy is Your Name; Holiness befits You. Thank You that it is not on my merit that I can approach You, but it is because of the shed Blood of Yeshua, Jesus, that I can approach Your throne of grace, and have the privilege to call You Holy -- Kadosh.
"All the earth bows down to you; they sing praise to you, they sing praise to your name." (Psalm 66:4)
(Taken from: Intimate Moments with the Hebrew Names of God, by Barri Cae Malin and Shmuel Wolkenfeld; Bridge-Logos Publishers; Gainesville, FL, 32614. ISBN: 0-88270-801-5)
