Tuesday, May 31, 2011

On Capitol Hill This Week - Volume XVIII, Number 17

In This Issue
• On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVIII, No. 17a-1
• On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVIII, No. 17a-2
• This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .

Greetings!
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net

On Capitol Hill This Week - Volume XVIII, Number 17a
May 31 - June 3, 2011

SPECIAL EDITION

"Now there was a long war between the house of Saul and the house of David. But David grew stronger and stronger, and the house of Saul grew weaker and weaker." (2 Samuel 3:1)

This week, the House is in session, while the Senate is out of session.

On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVIII, No. 17a-1

1. OBAMA NAMES NEW MILITARY LEADERSHIP PICKS
2. OBAMA ADDRESSES AIPAC; REPEATS CALL TO RETURN TO 1967 "LINES"
3. P.M. NETANYAHU WELCOMED BY JOINT SESSION OF CONGRESS
4. BIBI: "ISRAEL WILL NOT RETURN TO THE INDEFENSIBLE LINES OF 1967"
5. DEADLIEST TWISTER IN DECADES RIPS THROUGH JOPLIN
6. G8 LEADERS OMIT MENTION OF 1967 BORDERS IN MIDDLE EAST STATEMENT
7. G8 PLEDGES $20 BILLION FOR TUNISIA AND EGYPT
8. OBAMA'S LIMO GETS STUCK WHILE EXITING U.S. EMBASSY IN DUBLIN
9. SUPREME COURT UPHOLDS ARIZONA LAW ON IMMIGRATION ISSUE
10. SUPREME COURT UPHOLDS CALIFORNIA DECISION, RELEASES 40,000 PRISONERS


1. OBAMA NAMES NEW MILITARY LEADERSHIP PICKS

Obama nominated Army Gen. Martin Dempsey on Monday as his pick to be the next chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, replacing Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, whose term ends Sept. 30. Dempsey, an accomplished veteran of the Iraq war and the current Army chief of staff who's only been in his post for one month, will need Senate confirmation.

Obama also named Adm. James Winnefeld, the commander of Northern Command, to be his vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs. While not a household name, sources describe him as a smart officer, who is well-known at the White House. One source described him as "Mullen's guy."

In a Rose Garden announcement, the president said Dempsey is "one of our nation's most respected and combat-tested generals." Obama said both men have had the trust and respect of the troops on the front lines and in Congress.

The president also named Gen. Ray Odierno to be his Army chief of staff, a position that lives up to a promise by Defense Secretary Robert Gates to give Odierno, who is winding down at U.S. Joint Forces Command, a great job following a brutally long four years in Iraq. (Fox News) Read more.

- As these military leaders prepare to go before the Congress for their confirmation hearings, lift each one up in prayer. May Army Gen. Martin Dempsey, Adm. James Winnefeld, and Gen. Ray Odierno be led by the Spirit of the Most High God -- our own Commander-in-Chief -- in all the decisions that they must make for the defense of our nation. Amen.

- "I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you shall go: I will guide you with my eye." (Psalm 32:8)

2. OBAMA ADDRESSES AIPAC; REPEATS CALL TO RETURN TO 1967 "LINES"

Obama on Sunday sought to soothe Israeli fury over his new Middle East peace proposals by making clear that the Jewish state would likely be able to keep some settlements in any final deal with the Palestinians. Obama, addressing Israel's staunchest U.S. supporters, repeated his view that long-stalled peace talks should start on the basis of the Jewish state's 1967 borders, an assertion that angered Israel, exposed a deep rift in its relations with Washington and raised further doubts about peace prospects.

But Obama, in his speech to Washington's most powerful pro-Israel lobbying group (AIPAC), sought to ease tensions with the close U.S. ally over Obama's endorsement three days earlier of a longstanding Palestinian demand on the borders of their future state. Obama stressed that he expected the two sides to eventually negotiate an accord that included land swaps that would take into account the "new demographic realities on the ground," signaling that Israel would be allowed to keep some Jewish settlements built on occupied land. (Reuters) Read more.

- God, move all the world to recognize and respect the leadership of Netanyahu as sole Prime Minister of Israel, because it is under his leadership, under God that this nation and its people are guided and survive. One nation lead by its own leader. God, we ask for holy warring angels to come and surround the Biblical borders of Israel, for no man would dare fight the protecting angels of Israel who withstand its enemies. In Jesus Name.

- "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence comes my help. My help comes from the Lord, which made heaven and earth. He will not suffer your foot to be moved: He that keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord shall preserve you from all evil: He shall preserve your soul. The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore." (Psalm 121)

3. P.M. NETANYAHU WELCOMED BY JOINT SESSION OF CONGRESS

Congress Shows Almost Unanimous Approval of Speech

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed a joint session of Congress today. He got a rousing reception from members of both political parties as he delivered a passionate defense of the American/Israeli alliance, described the failure of the peace process and boldly outlined his vision of a future Palestinian state. Netanyahu spoke with just a few notes and without the assistance of a teleprompter. . .

Netanyahu concluded by graciously thanking the United States for its "unwavering support for Israel." "Thank you for ensuring that the flame of freedom burns bright throughout the world," he said. "May God bless all of you. And may God forever bless the United States of America."

There was a tremendous reaction to Netanyahu's address. Members of Congress interrupted Netanyahu 29 times with standing ovations. One headline on the Fox Nation website read: "Netanyahu Delivers Epic Pro-American Speech to Congress."

If you have children or grandchildren in college, I strongly encourage you to share today's report with them. I know they will benefit from this "reality check." Given the rise of anti-Semitism and anti-American rhetoric on our college campuses, it will surely stand in stark contrast to the misinformation and propaganda our young adults are being taught about Israel and our own nation at our institutions of higher learning. (Gary Bauer)

- Offer a chorus of praise for the strong support that was demonstrated last week by our Congress for Mr. Netanyahu, and for Israel. In praying now for 17 years on-site on Capitol Hill, we have never witnessed a move of unity like the one that was evident last week, across the board, in the United States Congress. Continue to cry out to the Lord that He might show us His mercy in the midst of judgment, for clearly, the vast majority of our people -- and our leaders -- do honor the apple of His eye. Praise God!

- For thus says the LORD of hosts: "He sent Me after glory, to the nations which plunder you; for he who touches you touches the apple of His eye." (Zech. 2:8)

[To gain a greater perspective about the tremendous response shown by Congress by this speech, please see the article titled, "Congress Gets an American President -- For a Day." Go here.]

4. BIBI: ISRAEL WILL NOT RETURN TO THE INDEFENSIBLE BOUNDARIES OF 1967

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Tuesday that Israel "will be generous" in giving back land to establish a Palestinian state, but will not return to the 1967 borders and will not agree to a divided Jerusalem.

Netanyahu, in an address before a joint meeting of Congress, outlined his terms for peace following a dispute with Obama over the boundaries of a future Palestinian state. Obama last week called for a two-state solution based on Israel's borders before the 1967 Six Day War. Netanyahu, along with pro-Israel members of Congress, said those lines would endanger the security of Israel -- a claim the prime minister repeated Tuesday.

"Israel will not return to the indefensible boundaries of 1967," he said. "Israel will be generous on the size of the Palestinian state, but we'll be very firm on where we put the border with it. . . Peace must be anchored in security," Netanyahu said. (Fox News) Read more.

- Give thanks for this brilliantly articulated speech, which left no doubt where Israel now stands on several U.S.- Israeli policy issues. May the anointing and favor that rests upon Mr. Netanyahu continue to increase, as that of his enemies decrease. Amen.

- "Now there was long war between the house of Saul and the house of David: but David waxed stronger and stronger, and the house of Saul waxed weaker and weaker." (2 Samuel 3:1)

READ NETANYAHU'S ENTIRE SPEECH TO THE US CONGRESS. (Go here)

We also encourage you to view the short You tube clip, Israel's defensible borders. [Source: Hebrew National News Alerts)

5. DEADLIEST TWISTER IN DECADES RIPS THROUGH JOPLIN

Within hours after Obama gave his AIPAC speech, a cluster of deadly tornadoes touched down in the heartland of America, with the deadliest one tearing through Joplin Missouri. The Joplin, Mo., tornado now ranks among the ten deadliest tornadoes of all time. The near mile-wide tornado last week killed at least 139 people and took out 2,000 buildings in its destructive wake.

On Tuesday evening, the area was again threatened with severe weather. A tornado warning was issued for a time in Joplin and surrounding areas. The storm-ravaged town avoided another direct hit, as the supercell moved north of Joplin. (Fox News) Read more.

For more details on this storm, see also Hebrew National News Alerts. Go here.

- Father, our heart goes out to the victims and families who have been affected by this especially destructive tornado. We pray for healing for the injured who hang in the balance; and we pray for comfort for those who have survived and must face rebuilding their lives. With You, all things are possible, and we pray for these devastated people to know You and Your power to restore what the enemy has taken.

- "For the Lord shall comfort Zion: he will comfort all her waste places: and he will make her desert like the garden of the Lord; joy and gladness shall be found therein, thanksgiving, and voice of melody." (Isaiah 51:3) KJV

6. G8 LEADERS OMIT MENTION OF 1967 BORDERS IN MIDDLE EAST STATEMENT

Canada Objected to Specific Mention of the 1967 Borders

Group of Eight leaders had to soften a statement urging Israel and the Palestinians to return to negotiations because Canada objected to a specific mention of 1967 borders, diplomats said on Friday. Group of Eight leaders had to soften a statement urging Israel and the Palestinians to return to negotiations because Canada objected to a specific mention of 1967 borders, diplomats said on Friday.

Canada's right-leaning Conservative government has adopted a staunchly pro-Israel position in international negotiations since coming to power in 2006, with Prime Minister Stephen Harper saying Canada will back Israel whatever the cost. (Reuters) Read more.

See also: Hebrew National News Alerts. Go here.

- Call forth the BLESSING due to Canada for its very strong stand with Israel! Praise God!

- "May the LORD bless you from Zion, He who made heaven and earth." (Psa 134:3)

7. G8 PLEDGES $20 BILLION FOR EGYPT AND TUNISIA

The world's big wealthy democracies have endorsed a $20-billion-plus package of assistance to Egypt and Tunisia, asserting a willingness to support transitions to democracy in North Africa and the Middle East. Leaders of many of the Group of Eight countries meeting in Deauville, France, had raised fears that the pro-Democracy movements dubbed the Arab spring could be derailed by economic hardship which could lead to a rise of extremism.

They closed their summit with a "declaration on the Arab spring" that pledged to back concrete economic political reforms across North Africa and the Middle East, starting with Egypt and Tunisia, two countries which ousted dictators but face economic downturn. "We stand ready to extend this long term global Partnership to all countries of the region engaging in a transition towards free, democratic and tolerant societies, beginning with Egypt and Tunisia, in association with countries wishing to support transition in the region," the G8 declaration stated. (The Globe and Mail)

- There is now a very fine line between what Obama calls "democracy" in the "Arab Spring," and the carefully designed takeover of these same nations by the Muslim Brotherhood. For more on this, please see the comment, below, by a brother in Israel. In the U.S., the appropriation of these funds must be approved by Congress. Please pray they be granted wisdom in doing so.

- "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him." (James 1:5)

A comment from Feryl Honorof, A Citizen of Israel

" The Muslim Brotherhood is rapidly gaining control of Egypt and the peace agreement that once existed between Egypt and Israel is quickly falling apart. As many of us now understand this has been the plan all along. Please understand, Israel is in a very dangerous place! The funding of what Barack Obama calls "The Arab Spring," the fight for democracy in the middle east, is in actuality, the financing and military arming of the radical Islamic Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt and other middle east nations. The Christians in Egypt are in great fear of what is coming next, as radical elements gain control."

8. OBAMA'S LIMO GETS STUCK WHILE EXITING U.S. EMBASSY IN DUBLIN

Obama made quite an exit Monday as his armored car attempted to leave the U.S. Embassy in Dublin, Ireland.

As crowds of onlookers patiently waited for a glimpse of the president, the White House motorcade began to peel out of the embassy via the exit ramp Monday morning. But when the car--the armored Cadillac nicknamed "The Beast" by the Secret Service --holding Obama and wife Michelle reached the gate, a loud "clang" resounded and the car lurched.

A reporter with Ireland's RTE network said the car's low underbelly appeared to have caught on a piece of metal possibly related to the embassy gate. AFP reports that the Obamas eventually switched to another car to drive to the Marine Force One helicopter en route to Moneygall--the town where the president's great-great-great grandfather once lived. (Yahoo News)

To read more and to view a video of this incident, go here.

- Continue to pray for the safety of the President and the First Lady during all of their overseas travels. Happily, this brief incident ended up being a minor inconvenience for the First Family during their trip to one of Obama's ancestral homes. His personal limousine may be a heavily protected "Beast" to the Secret Service, but only our God is able to fully protect us and to keep us from harm. Amen.

- "Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven." (Matthew 18:19)

9. SUPREME COURT UPHOLDS ARIZONA LAW ON IMMIGRATION ISSUE

Penalizes Employers Over Illegal Immigrant Workers

The Supreme Court has sustained Arizona's law that penalizes businesses for hiring workers who are in the United States illegally, rejecting arguments that states have no role in immigration matters. By a 5-3 vote, the court said Thursday that federal immigration law gives states the authority to impose sanctions on employers who hire unauthorized workers. The decision upholding the validity of the 2007 law comes as the state is appealing a ruling that blocked key components of a second, more controversial Arizona immigration enforcement law. Thursday's decision applies only to business licenses and does not signal how the high court might rule if the other law comes before it. (Christian Coalition of America) Read more.

- Thank You Lord, for this victory in the Supreme Court! We ask that more states now begin to clamp down on the immigration violations across the borders of America, not to harm the innocents, but to protect the nation.

- "O sing unto the Lord a new song; for He has done marvelous things: His right hand and His holy arm have gotten Him the victory." (Psalm 98:1)

10. SUPREME COURT UPHOLDS CALIFORNIA DECISION, RELEASES 40,000 PRISONERS

In all the big news of the past week, a very controversial United States Supreme Court decision has been largely ignored. In a 5-to-4 decision, the Supreme Court ordered California to release more than 40,000 prisoners, arguing that prison overcrowding had created conditions that amounted to "cruel and unusual" punishment. The decision was backed by the court's four liberal justices, including two appointed by President Obama, and Justice Anthony Kennedy.

This decision will have severe consequences. As other court-ordered prisoner releases have demonstrated, people may be killed, raped or robbed as result. In the 1990s, Philadelphia was forced to release thousands of prisoners under court order. In less than two years, the police had arrested and charged many of the released prisoners for committing nearly 10,000 new crimes, including 79 murders, 90 rapes and nearly 1,000 robberies.

The court's conservatives were incredulous. In his dissenting opinion, Justice Antonin Scalia warned that "terrible things are sure to happen as a consequence of this outrageous order." Justice Samuel Alito argued that the court should have issued a narrow ruling to address specific problems on a case-by-case basis. Instead, Alito wrote, the liberal majority freed "the equivalent of three Army divisions" of criminals, which he feared would "lead to a grim roster of victims." (Gary Bauer)

- Lord, we pray for better wisdom for the Supreme Court of our land. We pray they make judgments more wisely than this ruling on Monday. We pray that they will get their priorities right and that honest men and women will be protected from those who are soon to be released. We pray for You to make changes in the lives of those released so that they are not a menace to society.

- "Wisdom is better than weapons of war." (Ecclesiastes 9:18a") KJV

On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVIII, No. 17a-2

FOCUS ON ISRAEL

1. EGYPT TO OPEN RAFAH CROSSING PERMANENTLY

Egypt will opened its only crossing with the Gaza Strip this weekend, the Cairo military government announced on Wednesday, significantly easing a four-year blockade on the Hamas-ruled territory but setting up a potential conflict with Israel.

- Father, we ask for You to ramp up Your protection for Israel in the face of this action by Egypt. We ask for the help of Your Angelic Host to stand guard against the weapons that flow through Gaza, that no secrecy is able to hide the works of Hamas. (UK Telegraph)

- "Their webs shall not become garments, neither shall they cover themselves with their works; their works are works of iniquity, and the act of violence is in their hands." (Isaiah 59:6)

2. ISRAEL PREPARES FOR BORDER VIOLENCE

The Israeli military is preparing for the possibility of violent protests along its borders in the coming days, aiming to avoid a repeat of deadly unrest that erupted earlier this month, a senior military official told The Associated Press on Sunday. Facebook-organized activists have called for demonstrations next weekend in Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan to mark the anniversary of the 1967 Mideast war, in which Israel captured the West Bank, Gaza Strip east Jerusalem and Golan Heights.

The commissioner tells the Post that his forces face a "new reality" in attempts to infiltrate Israel's borders. "In this reality, we are obligated, as a security force, to expect all possibilities and various scenarios, and prepare accordingly. This is a national mission and a national challenge," Danino told the paper. Another official said the army hopes to avoid civilian casualties but would set "red lines" for the demonstrations. That means Israel will not allow demonstrators to burst across the borders during the coming week's protests -- as they did on the Syria-Israel border on May 15 -- or to enter Jewish settlements in the West Bank in September. He said Israel will not react to nonviolent demonstrations, including large gatherings near the settlements, but that it would be forced to take action in "life-threatening" situations. (Fox News)

Read more.

- Set up ambushes of PRAISE in the face of Israel's enemies; then wait before the LORD to see what He will do with her enemies. Pray!

- And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed those who should sing to the LORD, and who should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army and were saying:

"Praise the LORD, For His mercy endures forever." Now when they began to sing and to praise, the LORD set ambushes against the people of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, who had come against Judah; and they were defeated. (2 Chronicles 20:21,22)

3. HAMAS MOVING HQ FROM SYRIA TO EGYPT, WARNS NETANYAHU

Hamas is moving its headquarters from Damascus to Egypt, and the terror group is strengthening itself in the Sinai, Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu told the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Security Committee Monday.

He also noted that the Muslim Brotherhood, from which Hamas sprung, also has become a more powerful force in Egypt since the ouster of Hosni Mubarak. P. M. Netanyahu stated his concern about the inability of the provisional military regime in Egypt to exercise sovereignty in the Sinai, which borders Israel. Bedouin and Hamas terrorists are also smuggling weapons from Iran, Sudan, Syria and elsewhere into Gaza from Sinai. Al-Qaeda also has brought 400 terrorists into the area, according to an Egyptian official quoted by an Arab news agency.

The de facto dominance of Bedouin tribes and allied terrorists in the Sinai has set the stage for further stockpiling of advanced arms by Hamas and for plotting terrorist attacks at tourist and holy sites in Egypt. (Arutz 7 News)

- Praise the Lord for the wisdom of Israel's Prime Minister and the alertness of his officials in detecting the movements of Hamas. Praise the Lord that the Israeli intelligence agencies will be able to thwart all terrorist plottings, as we pray. Ask the LORD to prevent the leader of Hamas from setting up his headquarters in Egypt, and for all of his resources to wither and die.

- Do not fret because of evildoers, Nor be envious of the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, And wither as the green herb. (Psalm 37:1)

On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVIII, No. 17b


FOCUS ON LEGISLATION

1. HOUSE REJECTS DEBT CEILING INCREASE
2. OBAMA'S BUDGET UNANIMOUSLY REJECTED BY SENATE VOTE: 97 - 0
3. THE BUDGET: SOMETHING ELSE TO CONSIDER
4. PATRIOT ACT EXTENSION PASSES; SIGNED INTO LAW
5. HOUSE COMMITTEE CONSIDERS VALUES AMENDMENTS TO DoD AUTHORIZATION
6. GOODWIN LIU WITHDRAWS APPEALS COURT NOMINATION
7. HOUSE REPUBLICANS FILE BILL TO CUT PRO-ABORTION UNFPA FUNDING
8. HOUSE TO VOTE ON WITHDRAWING TROOPS FROM LIBYA
9. LAWMAKER URGES U.S. TO CUT FOREIGN AID TO MIDEAST
10. H.R. 1006: "THE JERUSALEM EMBASSY AND RECOGNITION ACT OF 2011"
11. CONGRESS AUTHORIZES A JEWISH CHAPLAINS MEMORIAL AT ARLINGTON CEMETERY
12. H.RES.254: URGING AMERICANS TO PRAY FOR THE VICTIMS OF THE FLOODS; TORNADOES


1. HOUSE REJECTS DEBT CEILING INCREASE

House Republicans have engineered the defeat of their own proposed $2.4 trillion increase in the debt limit, a political gambit designed to reinforce a demand for spending cuts to accompany any future increase in government borrowing.

The vote Tuesday was 97-318, far below the two-thirds majority needed for passage.

Republicans signaled well in advance that the debt limit vote was political theater and did not portend a final refusal to grant an increase.

Democrats criticized the GOP for playing political games with the nation's credit rating. (Fox News) Read more.

- Offer praise that Congress is drawing a line in the sand against an increase of our debt ceiling. We all know that this nation cannot afford to keep "throwing money out the window," but that, instead, it is time to take a prudent and sober view of our financial state. Pray that the Senate will follow the lead of the Congress and that, in time, the president too will see the light and pass a bill more in line with reality. Pray!

- Re: the debt: "This far and no further, and here shall your proud waves be stopped." (Job 38:11)

2. OBAMA'S BUDGET UNANIMOUSLY REJECTED BY SENATE VOTE: 97 - 0

The budget proposal released by the White House back in February didn't win a single vote in the Senate on Wednesday -- the final tally was 0-97. Senate Republicans pushed for the vote as a counterpoint to the defeat of Rep. Paul Ryan's budget plan. (Politico)

- Father, we thank You for the unanimous rejection of this budget which did not address the sin of overspending. We ask for a budget plan that truly addresses the financial problems in the nation and ask that Your Word and wisdom would be used to guide our legislators in implementing such a plan. If the budget plan recently passed in the House of Representatives meets this criteria, we ask that you would prosper it. Father, we also ask that You would prepare the hearts and minds of the people of the USA for the changes that need to be made to return Your nation to financial stability.

- "However there need be no poor people among you, for in the land the LORD your God is giving you, if only you fully obey the LORD your God and are careful to follow all these commands I am giving you today. For the LORD your God will bless you as he has promised, and you will lend to many nations but will borrow from none. You will rule over many nations but none will rule over you." (Deut. 15: 4-6)

3. THE BUDGET: SOMETHING ELSE TO CONSIDER

Something that hasn't received much press yet is the fact that Sen. Pat Toomey's budget from Pennsylvania received more votes (42) than any of the others. What's even better is that he does it without touching entitlements and returns spending to fiscal year 2006 levels--the last time the treasury ran a surplus--when we ran FY 06 levels during early FY 07. (Tim McGhee; CHPP)

To read the transcript of Senator Toomey's speech go here.

- Pray in the Spirit over this very complex issue, for only our Holy God can know and fathom all of the ins and outs of this ongoing budget debate. Pray that all ideas put forth for the good of our people will surface, receive consideration, and pass into law; and that all others would end up in the ash heap of history. Pray!

- "The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." (James 5:16)

4. PATRIOT ACT EXTENSION PASSES; SIGNED INTO LAW

Minutes before a midnight deadline, Obama signed into law a four-year extension of post-Sept. 11 powers to search records and conduct roving wiretaps in pursuit of terrorists. "It's an important tool for us to continue dealing with an ongoing terrorist threat," Obama said Friday after a meeting with French President Nicolas Sarkozy. With Obama in France, the White House said the president used an autopen machine that holds a pen and signs his actual signature. It is only used with proper authorization of the president.

The law, enacted after the terrorist attacks of 9/11, has drawn criticism from the right and the left over what's viewed as abuses of privacy laws. (MSNBC) Read more.

- Only our Omniscient God can know all the fine details that have been included in this mammoth bill. Our job, as intercessors for our leaders, is to simply pray that the Patriot Act be used for our protection, and not for our detriment. Pray for all in authority, asking our Lord to turn the hearts of all towards righteousness.

- "Good leadership is a channel of water controlled by God; he directs it to whatever ends he chooses." (Proverbs 21:1; The Message)

5. HOUSE COMMITTEE CONSIDERS VALUES AMENDMENTS TO DoD AUTHORIZATION

Last week, the House Armed Services Committee (HASC) considered a series of amendments during three markup sessions that values voters would support. All three were passed in committee, and sent to the floor for inclusion in the final passage of the Authorization Bill for the Department of Defense.

Please hold these three items in prayer, asking that each one be included in the final authorization bill, and passed without comment. Thank you!

- "For the eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous, and his ears attend to their prayers." (I Peter 3:12)

a) Marriage Amendment: Upholding the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA)

Last month, the Office of the Chief of Navy Chaplains released new guidelines that would allow the use of base facilities for same-sex marriages (given that the state in which the base was centered allowed same-sex marriage). The notice also outlined that Navy chaplains may officiate these weddings. Both of these moves seem to be in contradiction with the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). And so, Rep. Todd Akin, along with 62 Congressmen, sent a letter to Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus outlining the DOMA violation and requesting that the Secretary reverse course. Thankfully, Rear Admiral Mark Tidd, chief of Navy chaplains, announced Tuesday that the policy has been "suspended until further notice pending additional legal and policy review." The quick action by lawmakers is given the credit for this reversal in policy in the news reports.

Still, the decision by the Navy to go forward with this policy in the first place shows a need for clarifying language in statute. That is why Rep. Akin offered an amendment to the Defense Authorization bill (H.R. 1540) during markup in the House Armed Services Committee (HASC). This amendment clearly states that marriage ceremonies taking place on military installations can only occur if the marriage is in accordance with the definition of marriage as outlined in DOMA. The amendment passed by a vote of 38 to 23.

b) DADT Amendment: Certifying Implementation of DADT

Another amendment brought before HASC during markup was one dealing with the military's policy on homosexuals in service. Rep. Duncan Hunter offered an amendment to require that all four military service chiefs certify that implementation of the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell (DADT)" repeal won't impact combat readiness and effectiveness. This amendment mirrors H.R. 337, the Restore Military Readiness Act, which was introduced by Rep. Hunter earlier this year. This amendment also passed by a vote of 33 to 27.

c) DOMA Amendment: Emphasizing DOMA in the Military

Lastly, Rep. Vicky Hartzler offered an amendment to DoD Authorization which emphasizes DOMA in the military. The amendment defines marriage as a union between a man and a woman for the purpose of military benefits, regulations and policy. This amendment passed by a vote of 39 to 22. The National Defense Authorization Act then passed out of committee by a vote of 60 to 1.

6. GOODWIN LIU WITHDRAWS APPEALS COURT NOMINATION

Following a Senate vote upholding the filibuster Republicans mounted against the nomination of pro-abortion activist Goodwin Liu for a federal appeals court position, Liu has submitted a letter to Obama withdrawing his nomination.

The Senate Judiciary Committee approved Liu's nomination for the federal appeals court in the western United States in April on a 10-8 party line vote. Last week, the Senate voted 52-43 against stopping the Republican filibuster with Republican senators Lindsay Graham, Dick Lugar, John McCain, Olympia Snowe, Susan Collins and Scott Brown all voting to stop the nomination from moving forward. Democratic Sen. Ben Nelson of Nebraska joined them while "pro-life Democrats" Bob Casey and Joe Manchin voted to allow the nomination of the abortion activist to move ahead. Lisa Murkowski, a pro-abortion Republican, was the lone GOP vote for ending the filibuster.

"In light of last week's unsuccessful cloture vote . . . I respectfully ask that you withdraw my nomination from further consideration by the United States Senate," Liu wrote to Obama in his letter, according to Politico. "With no possibility of an up-or-down vote on the horizon, my family and I have decided that it is time for us to regain the ability to make plans for the future. In addition, the Judicial Council of the Ninth Circuit has noted the 'desperate need for judges' to fill current vacancies, and it is now clear that continuing my nomination will not address that need any time soon," he said. (Lifesite News)

- Praise You Lord for this clear victory, and answer to our prayer! We pray for Mr Liu, that You will touch his soul and change his life for Your kingdom. We also ask for nominees that are more balanced in their approach.

- "Because of His strength I will wait upon You; for God is my defense." (Psalm 59:9)

7. HOUSE REPUBLICANS FILE BILL TO CUT PRO-ABORTION UNFPA FUNDING

Spurred on by a public vote in which pro-life advocates said cutting funding for the pro-abortion UNFPA agency was their top desire, Congressional Republicans have filed legislation to yanks millions from the UN organization.

Earlier this month, LifeNews.com reported on a public vote House Republicans were taking, seeing input from American voters on which one of three ideas for saving taxpayer dollars was the most attractive and should become the next bill pushed in Congress. With thousands of pro-life advocates encouraged to vote, legislation cutting UNFPA funding won out and will now become the next piece of legislation Republicans will advance.

Rep. Renee Ellmers, of North Carolina, will be introducing legislation soon."This is going to save American taxpayers $400 million dollars over a 10 year period and it's just another part of what we're doing here in Washington to cut wasteful spending that we see happening," she said in a new video introducing the bill. "And I am very excited to be part of this program and each week we will have more cuts coming forward."

The legislation would result in cutting the funding President Barack Obama put in place for the UNFPA, an agency that promotes abortion and works hand-in-hand with family planning officials in China enforcing the one-child, forced-abortion policy. (LifeSite News)

- Any vote for life is a vote we want to support in prayer, and in action. Please track the progress of this bill with us, and take action to call your own member of Congress to support Rep. Ellmers' bill when it is introduced. It is time to take action for life!!

- "Thy people shall volunteer freely in the day of Thy power." (Psalm 110:3 NASB)

8. HOUSE TO VOTE ON WITHDRAWING TROOPS FROM LIBYA

An increasingly war-weary House will vote this week on legislation that would halt the U.S. military intervention in Libya. The vote comes just days after lawmakers nearly approved a measure to expedite the American withdrawal from Afghanistan. The office of Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-Va.) said Friday the House would take up a resolution introduced by anti-war Rep. Dennis Kucinich (D-Ohio) that directs the president to remove U.S. armed forces from Libya. The liberal Democrat is acting under authority of the 1973 War Powers Resolution, which enables legislators to force a vote on troop withdrawal measures under certain conditions. The measure is not expected to pass, but a significant number of votes in favor could send a sobering message to the White House, which has struggled to win congressional support for the military intervention in Libya. Both Republican and Democratic leaders criticized Obama for a lack of consultation with Congress in the run-up to the military deployment, and the House has ignored his request for a resolution supporting the mission. (The Hill) Read more.

- The situation in Libya is complicated, at best. Pray that all hidden facts would be revealed to these members of Congress -- behind closed doors, if necessary -- as they weigh this decision. Pray for wisdom. Pray.

- "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him." (James 1:5)

9. LAWMAKER URGES U.S. TO CUT FOREIGN AID TO MIDEAST

While America's standing in the Middle East couldn't get much lower, you wouldn't know it looking at the U.S. foreign aid budget. Of proposed U.S. assistance for 2012, almost two-thirds is earmarked for Muslim nations and one-third goes to Arab countries. Yet, despite those billions in aid, opinion polls show most Arab citizens still have an unfavorable view of America and most Muslim nations routinely vote against U.S. interests in the United Nations.

"If we are giving money to countries consistently voting against our interest, we ought to cut them off," says Congressman Steve Chabot (R-OH) who sits on the House Foreign Affairs Committee. "But Congress is going to need to get some backbone here because it consistently gives Presidents the ability to waive the cutoff of that money." (Fox News)

- Pray that legislation will be introduced to cut off the funds that are now going to our enemies. In this time of economic distress, to do otherwise would be foolish.

- "For evildoers shall be cut off; But those who wait on the LORD, They shall inherit the earth." (Psalm 37:9)

10. H.R. 1006: "THE JERUSALEM EMBASSY AND RECOGNITION ACT OF 2011"

Congressman Dan Burton has introduced H.R. 1006 "To recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, to relocate to Jerusalem the United States Embassy in Israel, and for other purposes." This bill defines U.S. policy towards Jerusalem and the sense of the Congress, in part, as:

(a) POLICY.-It is the policy of the United States to recognize Jerusalem as the undivided capital of the State of Israel, both de jure and de facto.

(b) SENSE OF CONGRESS.-It is the sense of Congress that- (1) Jerusalem must remain an undivided city in which the rights of every ethnic and religious group are protected as they have been by Israel since 1967; (2) every citizen of Israel should have the right to reside anywhere in the undivided city of Jerusalem; (3) the President and the Secretary of State should publicly affirm as a matter of United States policy that Jerusalem must remain the undivided capital of the State of Israel; (4) the President should immediately implement the provisions of the Jerusalem Embassy Act of 1995 (Public Law 104-5) and begin the process of relocating the United States Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem; and (5) United States officials should refrain from any actions that contradict United States law on this subject.

- After the groundbreaking and historic speech delivered to the Joint Session of Congress last week by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, pray that Congress will now take action in response. May the 29 standing ovations given to Mr. Netanyahu by this Congress translate into action by the passage of this very important bill, giving our nation a legal foundation in all future talks related to the boundaries of Israel and the moving of our Embassy to Jerusalem. Pray!

- "May the LORD bless you from Zion, He who made heaven and earth." (Ps 134:3)

11. CONGRESS AUTHORIZES A JEWISH CHAPLAINS MEMORIAL AT ARLINGTON CEMETERY

Congress has authorized a Jewish Chaplains Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery. Although 13 Jewish chaplains have died while on active duty, there is no memorial in their honor. Groups have been working to change that, and have raised private funds to pay for the memorial, designed the memorial, and now have Congressional authorization from the House needed to erect the memorial. The final vote on H.R. 1627 was 380 to zero with 51 present/not voting. (Religious Freedom Coalition)

- Offer praise for the passage of this bill. It is time to honor those chaplains who have served our Jewish men and women in uniform. Praise Yeshua for this move!

- "Pay everyone . . . honor to whom honor is due . . .." (Romans 13:7)

12. H.RES.254: URGING AMERICANS TO PRAY FOR THE VICTIMS OF THE FLOODS; TORNADOES

The full title of this bill reads: "H.Res. 254: Encouraging people in the United States to join together in prayer for the victims of the destructive tornadoes and flooding in the South and Midwest and the devastating drought and dangerous wildfires in the South and Southwest."

- Join with our members of Congress tonight in offering a prayer for the thousands who are now homeless in the wake of these disasters; and who may be grieving the loss of family and friends. We serve a God who is called "Counselor." Call upon Him now for mercy.

- " . . . and His Name will be called . . . Counselor. . ." (Isaiah 9:6)

Israelis mark Jerusalem Day

Several thousand Israelis are expected to descend on the capital Tuesday and Wednesday as the city celebrates its 44th Jerusalem Day in remembrance of the 1967 Six Day War and the reunification of the city. On Tuesday, all night concerts with leading Israeli artists will be playing all over the capital, while on Wednesday a parade through the center of the city will take place. In addition, hundreds of people are expected to simultaneously mark the death of the Prophet Samuel believed to be buried in the Nabi Samwil National Park just north of the city. (ICEJ News)

- Major protests and demonstrations are expected to take place tomorrow as the Israelis honor Jerusalem Day. Continue to cover the land in prayer, for our Father can and will protect His own, if we but ask.

- "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem . . ." (Psalm 122:6)

More Information on the Hill

For more detailed and current information on what Congress has done and is doing in the House and Senate, please visit Deeper Inside the Mountain.

This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .


HOPE OF ISRAEL (Meekvay Yisrael)

"O LORD, the hope of Israel, All who forsake You shall be ashamed." (Jeremiah 17:13)

You are my Hope, O Meek-vay Yisrael. My sorrow may endure for the evening, but joy comes in the morning. You are my Hope; when all else fails, there is You. Help me never to give up on Your Wonderful Name.

(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)

Friday, May 27, 2011

CHPP Daily Brief - May 27, 2011

• The Daily Brief
• The Middle East in Focus
• The Daily Jot
• Honoring Our Troops
• Honoring Memorial Day
• A Special Prayer Request

Greetings!
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net

The Daily Brief - Friday, May 27, 2011

For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, for Jerusalem's sake I will not remain quiet, till her righteousness shines out like the dawn, her salvation like a blazing torch. (Isaiah 62:1)

The Daily Brief

1. Obama's Budget Unanimously Rejected: 97-0 - Politico

The budget proposal released by the White House back in February didn't win a single vote in the Senate on Wednesday -- the final tally was 0-97. Senate Republicans pushed for the vote as a counterpoint to the defeat of Rep. Paul Ryan's budget plan.

- Father, we thank You for the unanimous rejection of this budget which did not address the sin of overspending. We ask for a budget plan that truly addresses the financial problems in the nation and ask that Your Word and wisdom would be used to guide our legislators in implementing such a plan. If the budget plan recently passed in the House of Representatives meets this criteria, we ask that you would prosper it. Father, we also ask that You would prepare the hearts and minds of the people of the USA for the changes that need to be made to return Your nation to financial stability.

- "However there need be no poor people among you, for in the land the LORD your God is giving you, if only you fully obey the LORD your God and are careful to follow all these commands I am giving you today. For the LORD your God will bless you as he has promised, and you will lend to many nations but will borrow from none. You will rule over many nations but none will rule over you." (Deut. 15: 4-6)

2. Some of Joplin's missing turn up safe, alive - AP

As emergency workers in Joplin searched Thursday for more than 230 people listed as missing after a tornado tore through the city, one was sitting on a wooden chair outside the wreckage of her home, cuddling her cat.

- Father, we thank you for watching over these precious ones and sparing their lives. We ask for your mercy and grace for the survivors, and that you would walk through the grief process for those who have lost loved ones. Father, we ask that every one of the survivors (and even the nation) would consider their mortality, and that you would make yourself very real to them. We pray that you would draw them to You by Your Spirit, and assist them in the rebuilding process.

- "No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them, and I will raise them up at the last day." (Jn. 6:44)

3. US to help Israel buy 4 more Iron Dome interceptors - Jerusalem Post

The Pentagon is planning to help Israel buy four more Iron Dome short-range anti-rocket batteries, the head of the Pentagon's Missile Defense Agency said on Wednesday. On April 7, the system successfully intercepted a rocket from Gaza for the first time, followed by at least seven other intercepts, the Israeli military said. Its development was spurred by the 2006 conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Gaza Strip war against Hamas in 2008 and 2009.

- Father, even though we know that You are the ultimate protector of Israel, our hearts are gladdened and we thank You for this show of financial support to the land You set aside for Your people. We ask that you would bless the ones in positions of authority who approved this support, and ask that their hearts would be increasingly opened to the truth of the perpetrators of war against Israel, and they would be led to increase support to Israel.

- "I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples of the earth will be blessed through you." (Gen. 12:3)

4. Poll: [Only]12% of Israeli Jews consider Obama to be pro-Israel - Jerusalem Post

Obama's attempt to portray himself as pro-Israel in a high-profile speech to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee on Sunday did not succeed, according to a Smith Research poll sponsored by The Jerusalem Post.

- Father, we thank You for this answer to prayer that the hearers of the AIPAC speech would not be mesmerized by smooth words. Father we ask that You would continue to reveal the truth to all involved, both in Israel and the USA, and every other nation.

- ". . . And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. . ." (Luke 18: 6-8)

5. Haaretz poll: Netanyahu's popularity soaring following Washington trip - Ha'aretz

It's doubtful that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in his wildest, most optimistic dreams, would have dared to imagine when he set off for the United States last week that Israelis would respond to his six-day trip so enthusiastically: According to a new Haaretz poll, they are giving the visit high marks, considering it an overwhelming success.

- Father, we thank You again for answering prayer and we ask that this momentum of favor for Israel and Mr. Netanyahu will continue. We ask that this will spark a desire to learn more about the truth of the history of Palestine and Israel on the part of those who heard his speech, and that their hearts would be turned toward Israel as they learn the truth. Father, we also ask that the knowledge of this truth, will lead people to You, the one, true God.

- "Ask and it will be given unto you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you." (Matt. 7:7)

6. House Approves Boehner's Choice for New Chaplain - CHPP

On Wed., May 25, the House passed H.Res. 278 by voice vote, which stated; "Resolved, That Father Patrick J. Conroy of the State of Oregon, be, and is hereby, chosen Chaplain of the House of Representatives."

- Lift up Father Conroy as he prepares to assume his new role as Chaplain of the 435 members of the House of Representatives. May he be graced with "wisdom from above" as he carries out the task that is now set before him. Amen.

- "Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence." (I Tim. 2:1,2)

7. Obama warns Palestinians against September UN action - ICEJ News

Karadi: 'Israel unprepared for demonstrations US President Barack Obama held a joint press conference with UK Prime Minister David Cameron on Wednesday in which he said it would be a "mistake" for the Palestinians to pursue their plan of going to the UN to seek a recognition of unilaterally declared statehood in September.

- Pray that Mr. Obama will stick to his words, insisting that the Palestinians not go forward with this plan. The results, if he should recant from this statement, will be disastrous for our nation.

- "I will also gather all nations, And bring them down to the Valley of Jehoshaphat; And I will enter into judgment with them there On account of My people, My heritage Israel, Whom they have scattered among the nations; They have also divided up My land." (Joel 3:2)

The Middle East in Focus

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

For Zion's Sake. I have posted watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem; they will never be silent day or night. You who call on the Lord, give yourselves no rest, and give him no rest till he establishes Jerusalem and makes her the praise of the earth (Isaiah 62:6,7))

1. Sha'ath: Unity deal will allow us to 'liberate Palestine' - Jerusalem Post

Nabil Sha'ath on Thursday became the highest ranking Fatah official to visit the Gaza Strip since the signing of the Egyptian-brokered reconciliation agreement between his faction and Hamas in Cairo earlier this month.

2. Ashton goes against US and Israel on Hamas - EU Observer

EU foreign relations chief Catherine Ashton has indicated the bloc is willing to work with the new Palestinian unity government despite US and Israeli opposition.

3. Israeli music powers Arab revolutions - ICEJ News

Gadaffi to propose cease-fire

Recent unrest in Syria has led to a very unexpected development, with the leaders of protest groups opposed to the regime of President Bashar Assad asking Israeli singer Amir Benayoun to record three songs which have become symbols of the movement.

4. Iran nuclear chief dismisses "fabricated documents" - ICEJ News

Iran's nuclear chief, Fereidoun Abbasi, dismissed on Wednesday the latest report by the International Atomic Energy Agency which included evidence that Iran is illegally working to develop nuclear weapons, saying it was based on "fabricated documents" based on false information provided by a "few arrogant countries" - a phrase authorities in Iran often use to refer to the United States, the UK and Israel. "The agency remains concerned about the possible existence in Iran of past or current undisclosed nuclear related activities involving military related organisations including activities related to the development of a nuclear payload for a missile," the report said.

5. Chinese Admiral visits Israel - ICEJ News

Chinese naval commander Adm. Wu Shengli of the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) was in Israel on Wednesday for a meeting with his Israeli counterpart, Rear Adm. Eliezer Marom and Defense Minister Ehud Barak. The Ministry of Defense did not disclose the purpose or agenda for the meetings but Israel has quietly lobbied Beijing to reduce its diplomatic and economic support for Arab countries hostile to the Jewish State, as well as sought areas of common interest for cooperation. Military issues and weapons sale have been part of that effort, although sales of most Israeli weapons to China are subject to a US veto.

6. Egyptian Nazi Party launched in Cairo - ICEJ News

The Egyptian newspaper Al-Masry Al-Youm reported on Wednesday that an Egyptian Nazi Party is being formed and plans to run candidates in upcoming elections with "a contemporary frame of reference." The chief of the new political party, Emad Abdel Sattar, boasted that the party would unite disparate parts of Egyptian society and that he already had many supporters among the Egyptian military. Meanwhile, the official MENA news agency announced on Thursday that starting this coming Saturday, the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and the Hamas ruled Gaza Strip would be opened from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily except on Fridays and official holidays. It said the decision came as "part of Egyptian efforts to end divisions among Palestinians and to finalize their reconciliation."

The Daily Jot

The Blessing in sitting at the feet of the Lord

We at The Daily Jot have been hitting it pretty hard about the need for the great Christian masses in the United States to stand up for what is right and take back our nation. This is not about Dominion Theology or Kingdom Now or Name It, Claim It. Its about common sense and hearing and obeying the Lord. Throughout the Bible are examples of how kings of Israel and Judea either did well or did evil in the sight of the Lord. And no matter how one tries to cut it, the people of those nations were greatly affected by the king's actions. I find it interesting that many contemporary Christians just do not believe that leaders can determine the level of misery a society suffers. And by doing the Lord's will, we can change that.

Somehow they see it in terms of "God being in control" or "this is the way it has to be" if the prophecies of Revelation are to play out. They use these as excuses to stand by and watch the world around us literally and figuratively go to hell. And, believe me, I know that God is in control. But I also know that while we cannot stop the march of prophecy, we can determine our place in it. To me, there is too much emphasis in the church these days on self improvement and self indulgence. The Lord wants us to have a personal relationship with Him. It really has nothing to do with trying to be all that you can be, or establishing the kingdom of heaven here on earth. It's not about you, or me. It's about our Lord.

Remember the story of Martha and Mary. Luke 10:38-42: "Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word. But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? Bid her therefore that she help me. And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her."

Those who know their scriptures understand that we are to hear and obey God, and in that there is peace and fulfillment. As James wrote in 2:17,18, "Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man say, Thou has faith, and I have works: show me thy faith without thy works, and I will show you my faith by my works." The point can be made that because of what the Lord did for us, and does for us, then we desire in our heart to do his will. This really has nothing to do with our own self centered desires, and whether God wants us to be all we can be. It has to do with us being what God wants us to be. And we know this by reading the scriptures, praying and seeking his will in our lives. Blessings to you!

Have a Blessed and Powerful Day!
Bill Wilson
www.dailyjot.com

Honoring Our Troops

Watch as Oliver North honors our troops in this moving testimony.

Honoring Memorial Day

The National Day of Prayer Task Force would like to encourage you to set aside time this weekend to honor those brave individuals who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving the cause of freedom.

To learn more about this tribute, go here.

Capitol Hill Prayer Partners will stand down on Monday, May 30th, in honor of Memorial Day. Our next alert will be released on Tuesday, May 31st.

A Special Prayer Request

. . . For the Victims of This Week's Tornadoes

Many Americans have been in mourning over the loss of family, friends, loved ones and property as tornadoes have devastated much of the Midwestern states from Minnesota through Alabama. These storms have only accumulated in force since April 27, when 173 tornadoes touched down on a single day - a record according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). On Sunday, May 22, Joplin, MO, was nearly erased from the map when a tornado destroyed the town leaving more than 130 people dead.

The National Day of Prayer Task Force urges you to take time to pray for the families and communities that have been devastated by these natural disasters. May the Almighty's light of mercy and compassion shine down and bring restoration to them all.

Thursday, May 26, 2011

CHPP Daily Brief - May 26, 2011

In This Issue
• The Daily Brief
• The Middle East in Focus
• The Daily Jot
• A High Court Controversy

Greetings!
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net

The Daily Brief - Thursday, May 26, 2011

For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, for Jerusalem's sake I will not remain quiet, till her righteousness shines out like the dawn, her salvation like a blazing torch. (Isaiah 62:1)

The Daily Brief

1. High Court Upholds Arizona Law Penalizing Employers Over Illegal Immigrant Workers - AP

The Supreme Court has sustained Arizona's law that penalizes businesses for hiring workers who are in the United States illegally, rejecting arguments that states have no role in immigration matters.

By a 5-3 vote, the court said Thursday that federal immigration law gives states the authority to impose sanctions on employers who hire unauthorized workers.

- Thank You Lord, for this victory in the Supreme Court! We ask that more states now begin to clamp down on the immigration violations across the borders of America, not to harm the innocents, but to protect the nation.

- "O sing unto the Lord a new song; for He has done marvelous things: His right hand and His holy arm have gotten Him the victory." (Psalm 98:1)

2. Goodwin Liu Withdraws Appeals Court Nomination - Fox News

A liberal legal scholar at the heart of the debate over judicial activism on Wednesday asked President Obama to withdraw his nomination for a position as an appeals court judge after Senate Republicans blocked a vote on his confirmation last week.

Goodwin Liu, 40, wrote in a letter to President Obama that "with no possibility of an up-or-down vote on the horizon, my family and I have decided that it is time for us to regain the ability to make plans for the future."

- Praise You Lord for this clear victory! We pray for Mr Liu, that You will touch his soul and change his life for Your kingdom. We also ask for nominees that are more balanced in their approach.

- "Because of His strength I will wait upon You; for God is my defense." (Psalm 59:9)

3. Judge Strikes Down Wisconsin's Collective Bargaining Law - Fox News

Wisconsin's law taking away nearly all collective bargaining rights from most public workers was struck down Thursday by a circuit court judge, but the ruling will not be the final say in the union fight that brought tens of thousands of protesters to the Capitol earlier this year.

- We could have seen this coming, as if the private sector has bargaining rights, so would public sectors. But the purpose of the law was to stop the unions from pushing the costs of employees too high for budgets to withstand. Pray that God will bring a balance to the process of wage negotiations, so that unions will be forced to stop their greedy practices, and workers will be compensated with fairness in ways that help to balance state budgets.

- "Justice and judgment are the habitation of Your throne; mercy and truth shall go before Your face." (Psalm 89:14)

4. Stimulus price tag once again lurches higher - Washington Times

Congress's chief scorekeeper said Wednesday that the price tag on Obama's stimulus law has risen once again, this time to $830 billion -- or more than $40 billion more than first projected.

- Father, as we continually battle the ramifications of the stimulus packages instituted over the last few years, we pray for financially wise solutions to be granted to our leaders.

- "Behold, You desire truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part You shall make me to know wisdom." (Psalm 51:6)

5. Egypt to open Rafah crossing permanently - UK Telegraph

Egypt will open its only crossing with the Gaza Strip this weekend, the Cairo military government announced on Wednesday, significantly easing a four-year blockade on the Hamas-ruled territory but setting up a potential conflict with Israel.

- Father, we ask for You to ramp up Your protection for Israel in the face of this action by Egypt. We ask for the help of Your Angelic Host to stand guard against the weapons that flow through Gaza, that no secrecy is able to hide the works of Hamas.

- "Their webs shall not become garments, neither shall they cover themselves with their works; their works are works of iniquity, and the act of violence is in their hands." (Isaiah 59:6)

6. German party branch equates Israel with Third Reich - Jerusalem Post

The Left Party branch in Duisburg, North Rhine-Westphalia, has posted a flyer with a swastika morphing into a Star of David on its website and called for a boycott of Israeli products.

- Father, we bind the spirit of murder against the Jews, and loose Your Holy Spirit to bring truth to the people of this German party. No plan of the enemy shall succeed, and hatred will not stand!

- "When you cry, let your companies deliver you; but the wind shall carry them all away; vanity shall take them: but he that puts his trust in Me shall possess the land, and shall inherit My Holy mountain." (Isaiah 57:13)

7. 'Butcher of Bosnia' Nabbed After 16 Years on the Run - Fox News

Notorious war crimes fugitive Ratko Mladic can now face U.N. indictment in slaughter of 8,000 Bosnian Muslims.

- Lord, Your justice always wins against those who use the cover of religion to murder innocent people. From Bin Laden to Mladic, we praise You for the removal of violent and wicked men from our midst.

- "evil shall hunt the violent man to overthrow him." (Psalm 140:11b)

The Middle East in Focus

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

For Zion's Sake. I have posted watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem; they will never be silent day or night. You who call on the Lord, give yourselves no rest, and give him no rest till he establishes Jerusalem and makes her the praise of the earth (Isaiah 62:6,7))

1. Obama: Palestinian UN bid a mistake - Ynet News

Obama on Wednesday said that it would be wrong for the Palestinians to pursue UN recognition instead of peace talks with Israel.

2. Nasrallah: Obama, Netanyahu dealt mortal blow to peace - Ynet

News Hezbollah's leader has lashed out at Obama, saying the US and Israel have the same goals.


3. Right 'ambivalent' on PM's speeches - Ynet News

Heads of settlement movement largely support PM Netanyahu's Washington statements but say time has come to speed up construction in east Jerusalem, West Bank.

4. US: Hezbollah has more missiles than most states - Ynet News

Hezbollah is armed with more missiles and rockets than most states, according to outgoing US Defense Secretary Robert Gates.

5. Abbas: Netanyahu's speech 'traveled far from peace' - Jerusalem Post

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas said Israel was offering "nothing we can build on" for peace and that without progress he will seek UN recognition of Palestinian statehood in September.

6. Palestinian Statehood Vote Looms Over U.S.-Israel Rift - Wall Street Journal

Though the Most Honorable Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly clashed with Obama on Friday and held firm in his stance Monday night, the Israeli leader still needs American help on a looming test: a proposed United Nations vote on a resolution to recognize Palestinian statehood.

The Daily Jot

Straight talk on the condition of our government

Most Americans would likely agree that there is something innately wrong with the United States government. There is an LA Times story now about how congressmen paid some $21.5 million in bonuses to their staffs at the end of 2010. I was shocked to know that these staffers even received bonuses. My office never was issued bonuses when I worked as a "Hill Staffer." But even more shocking was that congressmen who were defeated doled out an average bonus of $4,000 per staffer, while those who were reelected paid an average of $2,300. Does this not tell every American that these people we are electing to office care little about the sufferings of their countrymen, and treat hard earned tax dollars frivolously?

Earlier this week, I wrote about how the president diverted floodwaters around Cairo, Illinois, which supported him heavily in his 2008 election, and the result was that thousands of acres of farms were flooded along the Mississippi. Every state below Cairo voted for the president's opponent in 2008. Moreover, the mainstream news media hammered George Bush for the government's allegedly flawed emergency response on the Katrina disaster. They, however, have had nothing but praise for the current president as he took a break and made a mere phone call from Ireland in response to the Joplin, Missouri tornado deaths. Over 60% of the Joplin area voted for his opponent.

There is more. The Washington Examiner reports that "1,372 businesses, state and local governments, labor unions and insurers, covering 3,095,593 individuals or families," have been granted a waiver from the president's mandated health care program. The Examiner goes on to document that the majority of the waivers were granted to political supporters of the president. The story also documents many other examples, recounting the president saying to Hispanic voters that he wanted to "punish our enemies" and "reward our friends." The Examiner concludes: "They look liked examples of crony capitalism, bailout favoritism and gangster government. One thing they don't look like is the rule of law."

The Founders believed that for our form of government to be successful, we should elect only moral and religious leaders. George Washington said in his Farewell Address, "Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports." We ourselves, especially those of us who call ourselves Christians, have allowed the election of these immoral and unreligious leaders. Jesus said in Matthew 7:5, "Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye." You see, if we were occupying as we should, voters would know not to elect those who sin against us and our children.

Have a Blessed and Powerful Day!
Bill Wilson
www.dailyjot.com

A High Court Controversy

In all the big news of the past week, a very controversial United States Supreme Court decision has been largely ignored. In a 5-to-4 decision, the Supreme Court ordered California to release more than 40,000 prisoners, arguing that prison overcrowding had created conditions that amounted to "cruel and unusual" punishment. The decision was backed by the court's four liberal justices, including two appointed by President Obama, and Justice Anthony Kennedy.

Beyond abortion and homosexual "marriage," this case gives us a glimpse into the future if Obama is reelected and given four more years to pack the federal courts with left-wing activists. The court's liberal majority was more concerned with the conditions of prisoners than the safety of the general public.

This decision will have severe consequences. As other court-ordered prisoner releases have demonstrated, people may be killed, raped or robbed as result. In the 1990s, Philadelphia was forced to release thousands of prisoners under court order. In less than two years, the police had arrested and charged many of the released prisoners for committing nearly 10,000 new crimes, including 79 murders, 90 rapes and nearly 1,000 robberies.

The court's conservatives were incredulous. In his dissenting opinion, Justice Antonin Scalia warned that "terrible things are sure to happen as a consequence of this outrageous order." Justice Samuel Alito argued that the court should have issued a narrow ruling to address specific problems on a case-by-case basis. Instead, Alito wrote, the liberal majority freed "the equivalent of three Army divisions" of criminals, which he feared would "lead to a grim roster of victims." (Gary Bauer)

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

CHPP Daily Brief - May 25, 2011

In This Issue
• The Daily Brief
• The Middle East in Focus
• The Daily Jot
• Bibi Before Congress (Part One)
• Bibi Before Congress (Part Two)
• Bibi Before Congress (Part Three)

Greetings!
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net

The Daily Brief - Wednesday, May 25, 2011

For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, for Jerusalem's sake I will not remain quiet, till her righteousness shines out like the dawn, her salvation like a blazing torch. (Isaiah 62:1)

The Daily Brief

1. NATO air strikes rock Tripoli again, France upbeat - Reuters

NATO has carried out its heaviest air strikes against Libya's capital in more than two months of bombing, amid upbeat comments from France and the Uhited States on progress toward ending Muammar Gaddafi's rule.

- God, Qaddafi has but a few days to bring destruction upon these people. May he be healed and saved and forgiven of all his trespasses by calling out in repentance for all the evil he has done. For the Word of God is a burning fire and He will require an answer from this man. In Jesus Name.

- "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the Lord search the heart, I test the emotions, even to give and repay every man according to his own ways, and according to the fruit of his doings." (Jeremiah 17:9-10)

2. Libya: British attack helicopters to be deployed - UK Telegraph

British attack helicopters will be deployed in Libya within days in a significant expansion of the military mission against Muammar Gaddafi's forces.

- God, diminish the strength and power of those who walk in darkness and who spread discontent among the people, causing needless blood to be spilled. We call for enough to be enough. There have been no changes for good on the horizon, so we plead for God's warring angels to get into the battle and destroy the enemy whose souls are continually bent on loving wickedness and forsaking goodness. In Jesus Name.

- "Wherefore now let the fear of the Lord be upon you; take heed to do it: for there is no iniquity with the Lord our God, nor respect of persons, nor taking of gifts." (II Chronicles 19:7)

3. Palestinian PM stricken in Texas - AP

Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyad suffered a heart attack while visiting Texas over the weekend, and was recovering Monday at Seton Medical Center in Austin.

Fayyad, who was born in 1952, was in Austin to attend the graduation of his son, Khaled, at the University of Texas at Austin when he felt strong chest pains Sunday, said the prime minister's spokesman, Jamal Zakout.

A hospital official said Fayyad was in good condition.

- Father, we pray for this Prime Minister. We pray for his healing and salvation while here in the states. Bring your laborers across his path to give him the Good News of the gospel. Open his eyes that he may turn from darkness and receive Your light.

- "The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shined." (Isaiah 9:2)

4. Senate Prepares Patriot Act Redux - NewsMax

Many parts of the Patriot Act are set to be renewed after the Senate gave its blessing Monday, but debate is sure to follow, according to Human Events.

- Father, we ask for Your perfect will to be done in the final language of this very important bill. We ask that this bill be used to protect our people from the dangers of terrorism on our shores, while still safeguarding our rights to privacy. We ask this in Your name, amen.

- "And I will strengthen them in the Lord; and they shall walk up and down in His name, says the Lord." (Zechariah 10:12)

5. Joplin tornado deaths up to 122, eighth deadliest on record - Reuters

A monster tornado that ripped through the small southwest Missouri city of Joplin on Sunday killed at least 122 people and injured around 750. authorities said on Tuesday.

- God, for this to be the eighth deadliest record denotes the need for deep repentance in the hearts and souls of this people. You are sounding an alarm for a spiritual awakening to take place. Comfort the people. Bring them into the presence of the Lord for guidance and solace. Pierce the darkness with the light of Christ and bring a revival to this city. In Jesus Name.

- "Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, says your God." (Isaiah 40:1)

6. Tornado kills two near Oklahoma City, officials say - CNN

A deadly string of tornadoes and thunderstorms rampaged Tuesday through central Oklahoma, killing at least two people, injuring many others and destroying homes and vehicles, officials said.

- God, comfort those who were traumatized and those losing family members by this deadly string of tornadoes and thunderstorms. There is strength in the Lord and we ask for hope and peace to be imparted to these precious people. In Jesus Name.

- "For God commanded and raised the stormy wind, which lifted up the waves thereof. They mount up to the heaven, they go down again to the depths: their soul is melted because of trouble." (Psalm 107:25, 26)

7. At least 4 killed in Oklahoma City tornadoes - CBS News

A series of tornadoes rolled through Oklahoma City and its suburbs at rush hour Tuesday, killing at least four people and critically injuring at least three children, authorities said.

- God, may the people cry out to You in their trouble and experience Your faithfulness in their distress. Lead them forth by the right way that they hear the comforting words that God is in control and He will carry then through. Touch them, Lord. In Jesus Name.

- "He sent His word and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions." (Psalm 107:20)

The Middle East in Focus

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

For Zion's Sake. I have posted watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem; they will never be silent day or night. You who call on the Lord, give yourselves no rest, and give him no rest till he establishes Jerusalem and makes her the praise of the earth (Isaiah 62:6,7))

1. Palestinian Statehood Vote Looms Over U.S.-Israel Rift - Wall Street Journal

Though Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly clashed with President Barack Obama on Friday and held firm in his stance Monday night, the Israeli leader still needs American help on a looming test: a proposed United Nations vote on a resolution to recognize Palestinian statehood.

- Father, save Israel out of the hands of their enemies. Send holy angels from heaven to war against and defeat this plan to divide Jerusalem and relinquish more Land to satisfy the demands of those whose premise and foundation has forever been to wipe Israel and the Jewish people off the map. We take comfort that You are the mighty God who has always protected Israel and made it secure from extinction, both now and forever. In Jesus Name.

- "And I will make Israel unto this people a fenced brazen wall: and they shall fight against you, but they shall not prevail against you: for I am with you to save you and to deliver you, says the Lord. And I will deliver you out of the hand of the wicked, and I will redeem you out of the hand of the terrible." (Jeremiah 15:20-21)

2. Netanyahu: We won't negotiate with Palestinian version of al-Qaida - Jerusalem Post

Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu told the US Congress on Tuesday that Israel is willing to return to negotiations with the Palestinian Authority, but not with Hamas.

- God, the spirit of David and the power and wisdom of God was upon Netanyahu to make his declarative speech outlining boundaries and limitations set in place that Israel is not on a suicide mission to agree with its enemies. The power of God is in the Land and its people, and the weakness of evil intent is not part of the negotiations. Rise up, O Lord, rise up great and mighty over Israel to destroy their enemies by scrambling their thoughts. Destroy their plans as they encounter the force of God who fights for Israel. In Jesus Name.

-"And David inquired of God, saying, shall I go up against the Philistines? and will You deliver them into my hand? And the Lord said unto him, Go up; for I will deliver them into your hand." (I Chronicles 14:10)

3. Syrian site bombed by Israel was 'very likely' a reactor - Jerusalem Post

A Syrian site bombed by Israel in 2007 was "very likely" to have been a nuclear reactor which should have been declared, the UN atomic agency said in a report, an assertion which may lead to Damascus being referred to the UN Security Council.

- God, you have gone forth before Israel to smite the host of those who would destroy them. Bring Damascus to justice. Uncover that which has been hidden. Reveal to the Israeli intelligence community the secrets of their enemies, that nothing be undisclosed. In Jesus Name.

- "Be of good courage, and let us behave ourselves valiantly for our people, and for the cities of our God: and let the Lord do that which is good in His sight." (I Chronicles 19:13)

4. Settlers: We'll remember PM's readiness to cede W. Bank - Jerusalem Post

The thunderous applause Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu received in Washington did not drown out what settlers consider to be one of the most dangerous lines in his speech: his clear willingness to cede some West Bank settlements.

- O God, pull back the ungodly influence brought upon Netanyahu to give up Land for peace. Bring to mind the story in the book of Joshua chapter 9, where the Gibeonites deceived Joshua because they asked not counsel at the mouth of the Lord. Give him godly discernment from past history that this only opens up doors for destroyers to walk in, dissimulate, and start massive upheaval and disruption of peaceful existence to the citizens living in the Land. Open up Netanyahu's heart to hear the voice of God who gave all of Israel to the Jewish people to have a homeland and not be dispersed among the nations. To cede settlements in the West Bank is to bring death to the innocent Israelis who live in and around this area. Hold Netanyahu steady that he will not be deceived. In Jesus Name.

-"And stay not, but pursue after your enemies, and smite the hindmost of them; do not allow them to enter into their cities: for the Lord your God has delivered them into your hand." (Joshua 10:19)

5. Ahmadinejad: There's a US plot to save 'Zionist regime' - Jerusalem Post

The US is engaged in plots to save Israel and protect its own interests, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said Tuesday, according to a PressTV report.

- Father, we ask that America will join forces as an intensely strong ally to Israel so that the blessings of obedience to God will come upon both nations. Surround this declaration with the angels and the blood of Jesus to bring it forth. In Jesus Name.

-"And it shall come to pass, if you shall hearken diligently unto the voice of the Lord your God, to observe and to do all His commandments which I command you this day, that the Lord your God will set you on high above all nations of the earth." (Deuteronomy 28:1)

6. ARAB RIOTS EXPECTED ON JUNE 7 - INN

Security forces are gearing up for a second round of Arab riots, commemorating "Naksa day," on June 7. "Naksa day" (lit. Setback day) marks the day on which the IDF reunited Jerusalem after 19 years of Jordanian rule in the eastern part of the city. The "Naksa" also refers to Israel's defeat of multiple Arab armies to retake control of Judea, Samaria and Gaza. Various websites have called for a mass Arab march on Israel with the goal of taking over the country and replacing it with a Muslim Arab country, "Palestine." One site said Nakba day events, which included a march on the northern border quickly thwarted by the IDF, "proved that we can free Palestine by an unarmed mass march, as long as we are willing to pay any price, even one million martyrs."

- Pray against this vicious plan on the part of those who hate and wish to destroy Israel. May it lose all momentum.

- "This far and no farther, and here shall your proud waves stop!" (Job 38:11)

The Daily Jot

The prophetic truth of Netanyahu and White House support of Islam

If anything, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's speech to the US Congress clearly exposed the side supported by the man who occupies the Oval Office. Unfortunately for Americans and Israel, it's the side of reducing the nation of Israel to an indefensible and weak entity that can be easily overrun by the Islamists. Make no mistake, the Islamic world is united--Shiite and Sunni--in one thing, the destruction of Israel and America. The only way that one can side with the Islamists in the Middle East is to deny that good and evil exists and juxtapose evil for good in that denial. Netanyahu left no doubt where he stood and where the American president stands.

Netanyahu pointed out that peace agreements with Egypt and Jordan have been vital. Yet the American president's new announced policy is to destabilize these nations in favor of democratic "reform." Already, the overthrown government of Egypt, now under the power of the terrorist sponsoring Muslim Brotherhood, has made diplomatic overtures to Hamas and Hezbollah. Netanyahu reiterated the obvious: that a nuclear Iran would be "the greatest danger facing humanity." Yet this Administration in 2009 told the Jewish people that America's enthusiasm in deterring Iran's nuclear program is conditioned upon Israel's progress in establishing a Palestinian state.

But the widest and deepest chasm between this White House and Israel is in the details of conditions required for peace, where there is disagreement on every major issue. Netanyahu said that peace is not about establishing a Palestinian state, but rather about the existence of Israel. He said that the Islamic leadership must recognize the right of Israel to exist. He said there can be no so-called Palestinian refugees resettling in Israel; that Jerusalem must never again be divided and remain the "united capital of Israel"; that a Palestinian state must be demilitarized; and that Israel will not negotiate with a Palestinian government backed by Hamas, what he called "the Palestinian version of al Qaeda."

Netanyahu spoke a prophetic truth: "In Judea and Samaria, the Jewish people are not foreign occupiers...This is the land of our forefathers, the Land of Israel, to which Abraham brought the idea of one God, where David set out to confront Goliath, and where Isaiah saw a vision of eternal peace. No distortion of history can deny the four thousand year old bond, between the Jewish people and the Jewish land." The Biblical reference is Genesis 12:2,3 where the Lord says to Abram: "And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curses thee."
Have a Blessed and Powerful Day!

Bill Wilson
www.dailyjot.com

Bibi Before Congress (Part One)

By Gary Bauer

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed a joint session of Congress today. He got a rousing reception from members of both political parties as he delivered a passionate defense of the American/Israeli alliance, described the failure of the peace process and boldly outlined his vision of a future Palestinian state. Netanyahu spoke with just a few notes and without the assistance of a teleprompter. Here are some excerpts of his remarks:

THE ARAB UPRISINGS: "Of the 300 million Arabs in the Middle East and North Africa, only Israel's Arab citizens enjoy real democratic rights. I want you to stop for a second and think about that. Of those 300 million Arabs, less than one-half of one-percent are truly free, and they're all citizens of Israel. This startling fact reveals a basic truth: Israel is not what is wrong about the Middle East. Israel is what is right about the Middle East."

IRAN AND PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH: "Obama has said that the United States is determined to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. Yet the Ayatollah regime briefly suspended its nuclear program only once, in 2003, when it feared the possibility of military action. That same year, Muammar Qadaffi gave up his nuclear weapons program, and for the same reason. The more Iran believes that all options are on the table, the less the chance of confrontation.

"As for Israel, if history has taught the Jewish people anything, it is that we must take calls for our destruction seriously. We are a nation that rose from the ashes of the Holocaust. When we say never again, we mean never again. Israel always reserves the right to defend itself."

THE LAND OF ISRAEL: "In Judea and Samaria, the Jewish people are not foreign occupiers. We are not the British in India. We are not the Belgians in the Congo. This is the land of our forefathers, the Land of Israel, to which Abraham brought the idea of one God, where David set out to confront Goliath, and where Isaiah saw a vision of eternal peace. No distortion of history can deny the four thousand year-old bond between the Jewish people and the Jewish land."

A FUTURE PALESTINIAN STATE: "We will be very generous on the size of a future Palestinian state. But Israel will not return to the indefensible lines of 1967. Palestinians from around the world should have a right to immigrate, if they so choose, to a Palestinian state. This means that the Palestinian refugee problem will be resolved outside the borders of Israel.

As for Jerusalem, only a democratic Israel has protected freedom of worship for all faiths in the city. Jerusalem must never again be divided. Jerusalem must remain the united capital of Israel."
[To read the full text of P.M. Netanyahu's address to the Joint Session of Congress,
go here.]

Netanyahu concluded by graciously thanking the United States for its "unwavering support for Israel." "Thank you for ensuring that the flame of freedom burns bright throughout the world," he said. "May God bless all of you. And may God forever bless the United States of America."
There was a tremendous reaction to Netanyahu's address. Members of Congress interrupted Netanyahu 29 times with standing ovations. (For anyone keeping score, Obama got 25 standing ovations during his State of the Union Address.) One headline on the Fox Nation website read: "Netanyahu Delivers Epic Pro-American Speech to Congress." Rush Limbaugh was effusive with praise, saying he wished Netanyahu could run for president of the United States!

If you have children or grandchildren in college, I strongly encourage you to share today's report with them. I know they will benefit from this "reality check." Given the rise of anti-Semitism and anti-American rhetoric on our college campuses, it will surely stand in stark contrast to the misinformation and propaganda our young adults are being taught about Israel and our own nation at our institutions of higher learning.

Bibi Before Congress (Part Two)

Analysis: Applause heard in White House, around world

By Herb Keinon, The Jerusalem Post

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

The overall importance of Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyanhu's speech to a special joint meeting of Congress on Tuesday was not in the substance - he did not break any radical new ground - but rather in the overwhelmingly warm ovation he received.

Netanyahu could only dream of such a reception in Israel. Even his wife, Sara, received a standing ovation when she entered the hall.

The prime minister was applauded some 30 times, many of those accompanied by standing ovations.

The nearly four-minute ovation he received when he entered the historic chamber - including a brief period of rhythmic clapping that sounded more like the Mann Auditorium than Congress - was not only heard by Netanyahu, but also by US President Barack Obama, the Palestinians and the world at large.

With all the talk of the country's existential loneliness, and Israel's real sense of isolation, when Netanyahu spoke to the most important parliament in the world, it exuded nothing but warmth toward Israel.

Even the prime minister's comment that Jews are not interlopers in Judea and Samaria - not like the Belgians were in the Congo or the British in India - received raucous applause and standing ovation by most in the hall.

Granted, Congress is not the world, and it is the US president who in the final analysis sets American foreign policy. But Congress is not some insignificant little body that can be lightly dismissed - not by the president or the world - and it sets the limits to how far the president can push Israel.

With the resounding applause, on both sides of the aisle, to Netanyahu's comments on a unified Jerusalem, not returning to the 1967 lines, not negotiating with Hamas, not allowing the descendants of Palestinian refugees to enter Israel, Obama - currently tending to US business in Europe - received a clear signal from Congress that when it comes to Israel, his hands are not free.

Bibi Before Congress (Part Three)

ANALYSIS: NETANYAHU GOES TO WASHINGTON

By Joel C. Rosenberg

(Jerusalem, Israel, May 25, 2011) -- Will it work? That's the key question as Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu finishes his high-profile trip to Washington, meeting with President Obama, addressing 10,000-plus pro-Israel activists at the AIPAC Policy Conference, addressing a Joint Session of Congress, and doing a flurry of major media interviews. Will his passionate case that Israel is America's best friend, the only solid and secure democracy in the Middle East, endangered by Iranian nukes, and in need of unwavering American friendship and support in tumultuous times fully convince the President, the Congress and the American people to stand with Israel through the darkest of times that are steadily approaching?

I would like to believe this will be the case, but Bible prophecy says otherwise. The Hebrew Prophets such as Ezekiel, Daniel, Isaiah, Jeremiah and Joel tell us again and again that Israel will be all alone in the last days of history. All the nations will eventually turn against her. All the nations will work to divide the Land of Israel. Jerusalem, too, will be divided. The New Testament reconfirms this. Indeed, the Scriptures indicate that the only hope for Israel is for her to turn fully and completely to the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. As the "time of Jacob's troubles" approaches - as the Day of the Lord approaches - the Bible tells us that the nations will betray the Jewish people. Only the Lord will be faithful. The question is, when the dark times come will Israelis turn their hearts to the Lord?

The Prime Minister's speech to Congress was excellent in many ways. He rightly described the "epic battle" underway in the epicenter. He described a great shaking going on in the Middle East. He rightly warned that Iran and her nuclear program is the greatest threat, that Hamas is the new al Qaeda, and that in all of the Arab world, only Israeli Arabs have true safety, security, and fully protected human and civil rights. I've included some important excerpts from the speech below.
However, it should be noted that Netanyahu never cited the Bible, never called on the name of the Lord, and never called the Jewish people to trust fully and completely in the God of Israel, but rather promised to divide the land of Israel as a concession to the Palestinians, even while promising never to divide Jerusalem. These were mistakes. He wasn't the first Israeli Prime Minister to make them. But he is making them nonetheless. He was right to thank the U.S. for all our help and support of Israel over the years, and he was right to seek continued help and support from the American people and government. But neither he nor Israel should become dependent upon American help because the Bible tells us it won't be there for long.

The Bible is clear: only the Lord will save Israel. It is time for Israelis to consider this very carefully. For time is short. "The Day of the Lord is coming; surely it is near." (Joel 2:1)

Footnote from CHPP:

We can't figure this out, but . . . our computer keeps dropping a key paragraph in this article!

Please visit the following verse, cited by Joel Rosenberg, that tells us what happens when a nation tries to divide the land of Israel:

-- (Joel 3:2)

Then see what God requires of us:

-- (Joel 2:12-13)

And finally, study how the LORD will respond to our repentance:

-- (Joel 2:18, 27)

To read the rest of this column -- including key excerpts from Netanyahu's speech and links to the full text(s) -- please go to my blog at http://flashtrafficblog.wordpress.com/ -- or the Hebrew blog found at www.joelrosenberg.co.il. Thanks.