• The Daily Brief
• The Middle East in Focus
• Supreme Court Ruling: What's Next?
• Reaction
• Today's Legislative Focus
• Update: Colorado Fire
• Urgent Alert: SYRIA
• The Good News Corner
• Worship with Us Today!
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
"Partners in Prayer for Our Nation"
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net
The Daily Brief Friday, June 29, 2012
"Hear my cry, O God; Attend to my prayer. From the end of the earth I will cry to You, When my heart is overwhelmed; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I." (Psalm 61:1,2)
The Daily Brief
1. House holds Holder in contempt over 'Fast and Furious' documents - Washington Times
The House on Thursday cited Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. for contempt of Congress in a historic vote weighted with political significance, though it does little to break the stalemate over his decision to withhold documents over the Justice Department's actions in a botched gun-walking operation.
- Lord, we know that Attorney General Holder was simply acting on instructions from his superiors, and is now being "thrown under the bus" by these same people, in order to save themselves embarassment and votes. Expose the darkness, Lord, and uncover that which is hidden, revealing that which we, the people, need to know. Amen.
- "He said to them, "Do you bring in a lamp to put it under a bowl or a bed? Instead, don't you put it on its stand? For whatever is hidden is meant to be disclosed, and whatever is concealed is meant to be brought out into the open." (Mark 4:21-11)
2. Cantor: House will vote on repeal on July 11 - Politico
House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-Va.) said Thursday that the Republican-led House will vote on repealing the health care law soon after the July 4 recess.
- Abba, again we come to You, and commit this to You. We know this will be a largely symbolic gesture in an election year. Lord, we pray that You would stop the erosion of our freedoms under this administration. We ask You to place Your people in positions of authority, submissive to You. Amen.
- "But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy. And the seed whose fruit is righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace." (James 3:17,18)
3. Scalia, Kennedy, Thomas, and Alito Dissent: 'We Cannot Rewrite the Statute to Be What It Is Not' - Weekly Standard
Chief Justice John Roberts held in his majority opinion today Obamacare's individual mandate may be considered a constitutional tax rather than an unconstitutional mandate. Justices Scalia, Kennedy, Thomas, and Alito forcefully disagree with Roberts in their dissent. "[W]e cannot rewrite the statute to be what it is not," the four Justices write. "[W]e have never-never-treated as a tax an exaction which faces up to the critical difference between a tax and a penalty, and explicitly denominates the exaction a 'penalty.' Eighteen times in §5000A itself and elsewhere throughout the Act, Congress called the exaction in §5000A(b) a 'penalty.'"
The dissenting Justices also argue that "judicial tax-writing is particularly troubling," since the Constitution requires tax bills to originate in the House of Representatives, "the legislative body most accountable to the people, where legislators must weigh the need for the tax against the terrible price they might pay at their next election, which is never more than two years off."
- Father, we thank You that nothing surprises You, and that You have promised to "work all things together for good" to those of us who know You as Savior and Lord. We thank You that "our times" are in Your Hands. We thank You that You are a Righteous Judge, and we ask that You would deal with all the ramifications, and individuals involved in this ruling. Although lawlessness is running rampant throughout our world, and certainly in our government, we ask that You - Who "sets up kings and removes them"- would now bring order out of chaos, and work all things together for Your glory. Amen.
- "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this." (Isaiah 9:6-8) "Adonai will fulfill his purpose for me. Your grace, Adonai, continues forever.Don't abandon the work of your hands!" (Psalm 138:8)
4. Obama to Visit Fire-Ravaged Colorado - VOA
Hussein Obama has issued a disaster declaration for the western U.S. state of Colorado, where he will travel Friday to survey the damage caused by a massive wildfire that has destroyed hundreds of homes and killed at least one person. Authorities say 346 homes have been destroyed since Tuesday, when the Waldo Canyon fire suddenly began raging out of control, forcing about 36,000 people in Colorado Springs, the state's second largest city, to evacuate their homes.
- Father, we ask that these fires be contained. We thank You, that the death toll from this horrendous fire is very few, although many homes have been destroyed. We ask that You give Your wisdom to the firefighters, and all who are fighting these fires, to bring these fires under control. We ask You to be present with Your people and protect them, their homes, and the ministry locations. We ask that many turn to You for help, and their salvation. Amen.
-" O our God, will You not exercise judgment upon them? For we have no might to stand against this great company that is coming against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon You." (2 Chronicles 20:12)
5. U.S. downs target missile in high-stakes test - Reuters
U.S. forces using a new Raytheon Co interceptor missile downed another missile in a high-stakes test of systems built to thwart what experts say are advancing capabilities of countries like North Korea and Iran.
- Father, we thank You for the success of this test. We ask that our technology will exceed that of enemy nations like North Korea and Iran, who wish us harm. Amen.
- "Our soul waits for the Lord; He is our help and our shield. For our heart rejoices in Him, Because we trust in His holy name." (Psalm 33:20,21)
6. July UN Meeting to Discuss Global Arms Trade Treaty - VOA
Delegates from more than 150 countries are to meet next month (July 2-27) at the United Nations in New York to draft a global arms trade treaty. The proposed legally-binding treaty would set international standards to regulate the import, export and transfer of conventional weapons - from aircraft carriers to machine guns and small arms. Major arms exporters, such as the United States, and major importers, such as India, will participate. Daryl Kimball, head of the Arms Control.
- Abba, we ask that as these delegates meet at the UN next week, that You will be present, and move upon our U.S. delegates to uphold our Constitutionally protected right to bear arms. We ask for Your mercy, and wisdom, as these delegates vote on our future. We pray that somehow our sovereignty as a nation will be preserved. Amen.
-" But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace." (James 3:17,18)
7. BREAKING: Arrogant Justice Dept. to House: We Won't Prosecute Holder - Fox News
The arrogant Justice Department moved Friday to shield Attorney General Eric Holder from prosecution after the House voted to hold him in contempt of Congress.
The contempt vote technically opened the door for the House to call on the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia to bring the case before a grand jury. But because U.S. Attorney Ronald Machen works for Holder and because President Obama has already asserted executive privilege over the documents in question, some expected Holder's Justice Department to balk.
Deputy Attorney General James Cole confirmed in a letter to House Speaker John Boehner that the department in fact would not pursue prosecution. The attorney general's withholding of documents pertaining to Operation Fast and Furious, he wrote, "does not constitute a crime."
Read more.
- This is another example of a government gone off course. Ask the Lord to move with His hand of divine intervention to bring correction to this situation, for the Dept. of Justice must surely comply with the instructions of the Legislative Branch of our government, rather that with their own "boss." Let justice prevail from within the Department of Justice! Amen.
- "I the LORD search the heart and examine the mind, to reward a man according to his conduct, according to what his deeds deserve." (Jer. 17:10)
The Middle East in Focus
This week, for all the headlines cited below, please join us in proclaiming THIS DECREE:
"Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep." (Psalm 121:4)
1. Erekat: Abbas, Mofaz to meet next week for talks - Jerusalem Post
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas will meet with Israeli Vice Premier Shaul Mofaz on Sunday, a Palestinian official said on Thursday, in the highest-level meeting between the sides since peace talks broke down in 2010.
2. IDF bolstering defenses along Syrian border - Jerusalem Post
The army is beefing up its defenses along the Syrian border due to concerns that terrorists are planning an attack in the Golan Heights, OC Division 36 Brig.-Gen. Tamir Hyman said on Thursday.
3. Israel fears UN about to announce settlement panel - Jerusalem Post
Israel fears the United Nations is on the cusp of announcing the membership of its fact-finding mission on West Bank settlements, a move it claims could harm efforts to rekindle the frozen peace process.
Supreme Court Ruling: What's Next?
There were a lot of emotional responses to yesterday's Supreme Court's ruling. Understandably, many of you were shocked and deeply saddened, as I was. But rather than delving into the details of Roberts' opinion, I want to focus on the future. Where do we go from here? How do we respond? What's next?
The reactions I received yesterday from friends across the country ran the gamut -- from "Impeach Roberts!" to "I Give Up!" I understand the frustration. But how we respond in the days and weeks ahead is critical. My friends, we cannot give in to despair!
If we give up, then Obama wins and it really is over. If we give up, the country you and I love so much is lost. If we give up, defeat is guaranteed.
I know this was a gut punch, and like any punch, it hurts. Our side has taken a lot of punches lately. Some folks may be tired and may not feel like fighting anymore. But the left never gives up after it gets knocked down. The left always picks itself up and hits right back. That's exactly what we must do now. Don't give up; fight back!
Here's a message I read this morning from Dianne in Texas that I want to share with you. She begins by writing:
"I have to admit that I cried today. I could not stop the tears. I just think of my poor children and grandchildren who will have to pay for this monstrosity."
I started to get concerned given some of the other messages I read that essentially ended there. But she continued:
"I will work hard to get Governor Romney elected. I am energized."
My friends, Dianne gets it! That is precisely how all of us must respond!
We didn't give up after November 4, 2008. We took back the House and narrowed Obama's majority in the Senate. This November, with your continued support, we'll take back the White House and the Senate, and we will take back our country too! (Gary Bauer)
[ A note from CHPP: Due to IRS regulations, we are not able to endorse nor oppose any candidate for office. In this instance, we wanted to share with you what many out there may be thinking or saying, as reported by Gary Bauer. Thank you.]
Reaction
Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell took to the Senate floor and blasted Obama and the Democrats for wasting so much time on this unpopular monstrosity. And McConnell also nailed Obama for misleading the American people, saying, "The Supreme Court has spoken. This law is a tax. This bill was sold to the American people on a deception."
Within an hour of the Supreme Court's decision, the House Republican leadership vowed that it would hold a vote on legislation to fully repeal ObamaCare on July 11th, once again putting Democrats on the record. This is important because as much as some folks still insist that the economy is the biggest issue, ObamaCare is tremendously unpopular and Obama and his left-wing allies now own it. (Gary Bauer; Thursday, June 28, 2012)
Today's Legislative Focus
From The Madison Project
www.madisonproject.com
Bonus Legislation
[Every week, we will try to spotlight some positive legislation that is worthy of conservative support.]
H.R. 6000: Validating Entitlement Recipients through Indicated Federal Immigration Status (VERIFI) Act
Last week, Obama announced that he would no longer follow the law and deport those illegals who would otherwise qualify for the DREAM Act - a law that never passed Congress. Unfortunately, the response from many GOP leaders has been tepid at best, while many of them are claiming that granting citizenship to these people will make them productive members of society. What they forget to tell you is that most of them are from poor families are low-skilled workers. Once they become permanent legal residents, they will be entitled to sundry welfare programs. Just the earned income tax credit alone would cost tens of billions annually.
Congressman Todd Akin (R-MO) [who was endorsed by The Madison Project in his bid for the Senate] introduced H.R. 6000, a bill that would block all access to Medicare, Social Security or food stamps for all those who were illegal prior to any administrative amnesty. This is pure commonsense even to those in the pro-amnesty crowd. At a time when our welfare and entitlement rolls are growing exponentially, we cannot afford to support those who have come here illegally. The bill has just 11 original cosponsors. Please call your members of Congress and request them to cosponsor this commonsense bill.
Update: Colorado Fire
COLORADO FIRE A MAJOR DISTRACTION/DISRUPTION TO MINISTRIES
Posted: 29 JUNE, 2012
Mission News Network
The devastating fire near Colorado Springs, Colo., continued to grow Thursday, even as the city began to assess the damage.
More than 32,000 people in Colorado's second-most-populous city and its environs have been forced from their homes because of the fire. As of Thursday morning, 18,500 acres have burned.
Although the Air Force Academy grounds survived mainly intact, 10 acres were charred along the southwest boundary. Best estimates now are that at least 300 homes have burned to the ground. President Obama is visiting the area today and has already pledged federal funds to help rebuild.
Rich Blanco, Vice President for Outreach at Biblica, says it's not just the size of the fire that makes it noteworthy. "I believe there are over 70 organizations that have their headquarters here in Colorado Springs, and well over 100 that are represented here in Colorado Springs. Over the last several days, hearing the reports and seeing the smoke and really not knowing what's going to happen--the nightmare started as the fire crested the hill of the front range and then sort of started coming over."
Famous structures like the Navigators' Glen Eyrie conference grounds were at risk. However, at last report from the Navigators, aside from damage to one small structure at Eagle Lake, the Glen Eyrie property was untouched by the fires. Since the staff was in the evacuation area, the Navigators are currently running "essential operations" out of Focus on the Family's offices.
Blanco says he, his family, and some of their staff were all evacuated, although Biblica's campus seemed to be out of danger. Still, "It really does create a distraction for the whole community. People are just trying to get reports on where the fire is going next. For people who have been evacuated, getting information on whether their house is actually still intact."
The frenzied activity, the worry, discouragement, fear and stress caused by the fires: all a "distraction?" getting work done, but "we're kind of in that stage where you're reacting and responding to what's happening right outside of your front door, but also still trying to continue to move the ball forward, so to speak, with your global ministry, and that's the case with Biblica."
And there's the rub: "We're in the middle of some incredible opportunities in the Middle East, and the number of attacks from the enemy seems to just be on the rise." Is it a coincidence that, in a time when Bible translation has been accelerated by decades, more people than ever are responding to the Gospel, and there is an active jihad to stop the advance of Christianity, that you see a fire strike at the heart of a Great Commission hub? "We look at this as one of those. This is just a way for Satan to distract us from what the Lord has called us to do as an organization."
It's a different take on a natural disaster. Does it sound a little kooky? Blanco joins many other Christian leaders who are calling it what it is. "I think the first step in really overcoming that, is acknowledging what it is and then praying to the Lord for the strength and perseverance to press through, yet again, another spiritual battle."
Will you pray?
Urgent Alert: SYRIA
Gulf sources report US, Gulf armies on high alert pending Syria action
DEBKAfile June 28, 2012, 10:17 AM (GMT+02:00)
This military alert is reported Thursday by various Gulf sources, including the US military, pending a strike against Syria in two days. This report, according to which NATO forces are about to move to Turkey, is not confirmed by any official source. US forces in the Gulf are apparently on forward positions and high alert, as are Saudi Special Forces and National Guard. Israel too is reported in mobilization. Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan is said to be preparing an extraordinary parliament session to authorize Syria intervention. The same unconfirmed sources cite Saturday as the day of the NATO attack, when in Geneva, the UN Action Group hold its first meeting to approve a transitional unity government in Damascus. The five UN Security Council powers, the EU and Arab League are represented, but not Iran or Saudi Arabia.
Read more.
Saudi forces mass on Jordanian, Iraqi borders. Turkey, Syria reinforce strength
DEBKAfile Special Report June 29, 2012, 11:02 AM (GMT+02:00)
The Syrian crisis was Friday, June 29, on a knife edge between a Western-Arab-Turkish military offensive in the next 48 hours and a big power accord to ward it off.
debkafile's military sources report heavy Saudi troop movements toward the Jordanian and Iraqi borders Thursday overnight and up until Friday morning, June 29, after King Abdullah put the Saudi military on high alert for joining an anti-Assad offensive in Syria. The Saudi units are poised with tanks, missiles, special forces and anti-air batteries to enter Jordan in two heads:
One will safeguard Jordan's King Abdullah against potential Syrian or Iranian reprisals from Syria or Iraq.
The second will cut north through Jordan to enter southeastern Syriam, where a security zone will be established around the towns of Deraa, Deir al-Zour and Abu Kemal - all centers of the anti-Assad rebellion. The region is also the home terrain of the Shammar tribe, brethren of the Shammars of the Saudi Nejd province. The Saudi units deployed on the Iraqi border are there to defend the kingdom against potential incursions by Iraqi Shiite militias crossing into the kingdom for reprisals. The Iraqi militias are well trained and armed and serve under officers of the Iranian Al-Qods Brigades, the Revolutionary Guards' external arm. Western Gulf sources report that Jordan too is on war alert.
Following the downing of a Turkish plane by Syria a week ago, Turkey continues to build up its Syrian border units with anti-aircraft guns, tanks and missiles towed by long convoys of trucks.
A Free Syria Army officer, Gen. Mustafa al-Sheikh, reported Friday that 170 Syrian army tanks of the 17th Mechanized Division were massed near the village of Musalmieh northeast of Aleppo, 30 km from the Turkish border. He said they stood ready to attack any Turkish forces crossing into Syria.
As these war preparations advanced, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton arrived in St. Petersburg Friday for crucial talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. They meet the day before the new UN-sponsored Action Group convenes in Geneva to discuss UN-Arab League envoy Kofi Annan's latest transition proposal for Syria. He hopes for a political settlement that will ward off military intervention. Invited to the meeting are the five veto-wielding UN Security Council members plus Turkey and Arab League envoys from Qatar, Kuwait and Iraq. . .
US-Russian concurrence on a plan for Assad's removal could avert the operation. The failure of their talks would spell a worsening of the Syrian crisis and precipitate Western-Arab military intervention, which according to military sources in the Gulf is scheduled for launch Saturday, June 30. (Read more.)
- We ask all of our Prayer Partners to stay tuned to this rapidly unfolding and volatile situation. May those in authority in all nations named move with the greatest wisdom, discretion, and caution . . . please do 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)
The Good News Corner
Mystery man saves church from foreclosure
MORGANTON, NC (WBTV) - A church in North Carolina is counting its blessings after a mystery man saved the day. In fact, a bank was ready to take over Grandview Baptist Church earlier this week after the church fell on hard times.
WBTV's Sharon Smith said it all started one day when stranger pulled up in a pickup truck and promptly put an end to the foreclosure.
Pastor John Whisnant Jr. said he had the worst day, and the best day, all rolled into one last Wednesday. That's when Grandview Baptist Church was about to be taken by the bank.
Grandview is a family church, where weddings are celebrated, loved ones are mourned, that is a second home to many, including the pastor's father.
"It's one of the worst things that I've ever experienced," said John Whisnant Sr.
After a lot of praying, crying and last-minute efforts, the deadline had arrived.
And then something remarkable happened. A stranger, a new man in the town, stopped by the church. "I never met him before," said Pastor Whisnant, who said he couldn't believe what happened next.
"Long story short, he basically said, 'What will it take to get the Bank of Granite off your back?'" said Whisnant. "And I told him and he said, 'Well, I'm going to take care of that for you.'"
The man gave a $345,000 gift - with no strings attached. Church members said it was a true miracle. "It's like if he'd have been ten minutes early leaving or late, or he'd been ten minutes later, we might not have heard from him again," said Whisnant Sr.
Members of the church have unpacked everything that had been packed up. Pastor Whisnant put his office back together. The piano, the podium and other things are all back in place. Folks said it feels good.
"The Bible says to whom much is given much is required," said Pastor Whisnant. "We are chomping at the bit to see what God has for us. We're going to serve to the best of our ability." (WTVR, Richmond, VA) Read more.
A note from CHPP:
We are blessed to end this tumultuous week by sharing this truly GOOD NEWS report with you! Our God is a God of miracles, for sure, and He is always right on time . . . meeting our needs.
Praise . . . the . . . LORD!
Worship with Us Today!
God Will Make a Way
Don Moen
God will make a way
Where there seems to be no way
He works in ways we cannot see
He will make a way for me
He will be my guide
Hold me closely to His side
With love and strength
For each new day
He will make a way
He will make a way
• The Middle East in Focus
• Supreme Court Ruling: What's Next?
• Reaction
• Today's Legislative Focus
• Update: Colorado Fire
• Urgent Alert: SYRIA
• The Good News Corner
• Worship with Us Today!
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
"Partners in Prayer for Our Nation"
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net
The Daily Brief Friday, June 29, 2012
"Hear my cry, O God; Attend to my prayer. From the end of the earth I will cry to You, When my heart is overwhelmed; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I." (Psalm 61:1,2)
The Daily Brief
1. House holds Holder in contempt over 'Fast and Furious' documents - Washington Times
The House on Thursday cited Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. for contempt of Congress in a historic vote weighted with political significance, though it does little to break the stalemate over his decision to withhold documents over the Justice Department's actions in a botched gun-walking operation.
- Lord, we know that Attorney General Holder was simply acting on instructions from his superiors, and is now being "thrown under the bus" by these same people, in order to save themselves embarassment and votes. Expose the darkness, Lord, and uncover that which is hidden, revealing that which we, the people, need to know. Amen.
- "He said to them, "Do you bring in a lamp to put it under a bowl or a bed? Instead, don't you put it on its stand? For whatever is hidden is meant to be disclosed, and whatever is concealed is meant to be brought out into the open." (Mark 4:21-11)
2. Cantor: House will vote on repeal on July 11 - Politico
House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-Va.) said Thursday that the Republican-led House will vote on repealing the health care law soon after the July 4 recess.
- Abba, again we come to You, and commit this to You. We know this will be a largely symbolic gesture in an election year. Lord, we pray that You would stop the erosion of our freedoms under this administration. We ask You to place Your people in positions of authority, submissive to You. Amen.
- "But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy. And the seed whose fruit is righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace." (James 3:17,18)
3. Scalia, Kennedy, Thomas, and Alito Dissent: 'We Cannot Rewrite the Statute to Be What It Is Not' - Weekly Standard
Chief Justice John Roberts held in his majority opinion today Obamacare's individual mandate may be considered a constitutional tax rather than an unconstitutional mandate. Justices Scalia, Kennedy, Thomas, and Alito forcefully disagree with Roberts in their dissent. "[W]e cannot rewrite the statute to be what it is not," the four Justices write. "[W]e have never-never-treated as a tax an exaction which faces up to the critical difference between a tax and a penalty, and explicitly denominates the exaction a 'penalty.' Eighteen times in §5000A itself and elsewhere throughout the Act, Congress called the exaction in §5000A(b) a 'penalty.'"
The dissenting Justices also argue that "judicial tax-writing is particularly troubling," since the Constitution requires tax bills to originate in the House of Representatives, "the legislative body most accountable to the people, where legislators must weigh the need for the tax against the terrible price they might pay at their next election, which is never more than two years off."
- Father, we thank You that nothing surprises You, and that You have promised to "work all things together for good" to those of us who know You as Savior and Lord. We thank You that "our times" are in Your Hands. We thank You that You are a Righteous Judge, and we ask that You would deal with all the ramifications, and individuals involved in this ruling. Although lawlessness is running rampant throughout our world, and certainly in our government, we ask that You - Who "sets up kings and removes them"- would now bring order out of chaos, and work all things together for Your glory. Amen.
- "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this." (Isaiah 9:6-8) "Adonai will fulfill his purpose for me. Your grace, Adonai, continues forever.Don't abandon the work of your hands!" (Psalm 138:8)
4. Obama to Visit Fire-Ravaged Colorado - VOA
Hussein Obama has issued a disaster declaration for the western U.S. state of Colorado, where he will travel Friday to survey the damage caused by a massive wildfire that has destroyed hundreds of homes and killed at least one person. Authorities say 346 homes have been destroyed since Tuesday, when the Waldo Canyon fire suddenly began raging out of control, forcing about 36,000 people in Colorado Springs, the state's second largest city, to evacuate their homes.
- Father, we ask that these fires be contained. We thank You, that the death toll from this horrendous fire is very few, although many homes have been destroyed. We ask that You give Your wisdom to the firefighters, and all who are fighting these fires, to bring these fires under control. We ask You to be present with Your people and protect them, their homes, and the ministry locations. We ask that many turn to You for help, and their salvation. Amen.
-" O our God, will You not exercise judgment upon them? For we have no might to stand against this great company that is coming against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon You." (2 Chronicles 20:12)
5. U.S. downs target missile in high-stakes test - Reuters
U.S. forces using a new Raytheon Co interceptor missile downed another missile in a high-stakes test of systems built to thwart what experts say are advancing capabilities of countries like North Korea and Iran.
- Father, we thank You for the success of this test. We ask that our technology will exceed that of enemy nations like North Korea and Iran, who wish us harm. Amen.
- "Our soul waits for the Lord; He is our help and our shield. For our heart rejoices in Him, Because we trust in His holy name." (Psalm 33:20,21)
6. July UN Meeting to Discuss Global Arms Trade Treaty - VOA
Delegates from more than 150 countries are to meet next month (July 2-27) at the United Nations in New York to draft a global arms trade treaty. The proposed legally-binding treaty would set international standards to regulate the import, export and transfer of conventional weapons - from aircraft carriers to machine guns and small arms. Major arms exporters, such as the United States, and major importers, such as India, will participate. Daryl Kimball, head of the Arms Control.
- Abba, we ask that as these delegates meet at the UN next week, that You will be present, and move upon our U.S. delegates to uphold our Constitutionally protected right to bear arms. We ask for Your mercy, and wisdom, as these delegates vote on our future. We pray that somehow our sovereignty as a nation will be preserved. Amen.
-" But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace." (James 3:17,18)
7. BREAKING: Arrogant Justice Dept. to House: We Won't Prosecute Holder - Fox News
The arrogant Justice Department moved Friday to shield Attorney General Eric Holder from prosecution after the House voted to hold him in contempt of Congress.
The contempt vote technically opened the door for the House to call on the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia to bring the case before a grand jury. But because U.S. Attorney Ronald Machen works for Holder and because President Obama has already asserted executive privilege over the documents in question, some expected Holder's Justice Department to balk.
Deputy Attorney General James Cole confirmed in a letter to House Speaker John Boehner that the department in fact would not pursue prosecution. The attorney general's withholding of documents pertaining to Operation Fast and Furious, he wrote, "does not constitute a crime."
Read more.
- This is another example of a government gone off course. Ask the Lord to move with His hand of divine intervention to bring correction to this situation, for the Dept. of Justice must surely comply with the instructions of the Legislative Branch of our government, rather that with their own "boss." Let justice prevail from within the Department of Justice! Amen.
- "I the LORD search the heart and examine the mind, to reward a man according to his conduct, according to what his deeds deserve." (Jer. 17:10)
The Middle East in Focus
This week, for all the headlines cited below, please join us in proclaiming THIS DECREE:
"Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep." (Psalm 121:4)
1. Erekat: Abbas, Mofaz to meet next week for talks - Jerusalem Post
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas will meet with Israeli Vice Premier Shaul Mofaz on Sunday, a Palestinian official said on Thursday, in the highest-level meeting between the sides since peace talks broke down in 2010.
2. IDF bolstering defenses along Syrian border - Jerusalem Post
The army is beefing up its defenses along the Syrian border due to concerns that terrorists are planning an attack in the Golan Heights, OC Division 36 Brig.-Gen. Tamir Hyman said on Thursday.
3. Israel fears UN about to announce settlement panel - Jerusalem Post
Israel fears the United Nations is on the cusp of announcing the membership of its fact-finding mission on West Bank settlements, a move it claims could harm efforts to rekindle the frozen peace process.
Supreme Court Ruling: What's Next?
There were a lot of emotional responses to yesterday's Supreme Court's ruling. Understandably, many of you were shocked and deeply saddened, as I was. But rather than delving into the details of Roberts' opinion, I want to focus on the future. Where do we go from here? How do we respond? What's next?
The reactions I received yesterday from friends across the country ran the gamut -- from "Impeach Roberts!" to "I Give Up!" I understand the frustration. But how we respond in the days and weeks ahead is critical. My friends, we cannot give in to despair!
If we give up, then Obama wins and it really is over. If we give up, the country you and I love so much is lost. If we give up, defeat is guaranteed.
I know this was a gut punch, and like any punch, it hurts. Our side has taken a lot of punches lately. Some folks may be tired and may not feel like fighting anymore. But the left never gives up after it gets knocked down. The left always picks itself up and hits right back. That's exactly what we must do now. Don't give up; fight back!
Here's a message I read this morning from Dianne in Texas that I want to share with you. She begins by writing:
"I have to admit that I cried today. I could not stop the tears. I just think of my poor children and grandchildren who will have to pay for this monstrosity."
I started to get concerned given some of the other messages I read that essentially ended there. But she continued:
"I will work hard to get Governor Romney elected. I am energized."
My friends, Dianne gets it! That is precisely how all of us must respond!
We didn't give up after November 4, 2008. We took back the House and narrowed Obama's majority in the Senate. This November, with your continued support, we'll take back the White House and the Senate, and we will take back our country too! (Gary Bauer)
[ A note from CHPP: Due to IRS regulations, we are not able to endorse nor oppose any candidate for office. In this instance, we wanted to share with you what many out there may be thinking or saying, as reported by Gary Bauer. Thank you.]
Reaction
Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell took to the Senate floor and blasted Obama and the Democrats for wasting so much time on this unpopular monstrosity. And McConnell also nailed Obama for misleading the American people, saying, "The Supreme Court has spoken. This law is a tax. This bill was sold to the American people on a deception."
Within an hour of the Supreme Court's decision, the House Republican leadership vowed that it would hold a vote on legislation to fully repeal ObamaCare on July 11th, once again putting Democrats on the record. This is important because as much as some folks still insist that the economy is the biggest issue, ObamaCare is tremendously unpopular and Obama and his left-wing allies now own it. (Gary Bauer; Thursday, June 28, 2012)
Today's Legislative Focus
From The Madison Project
www.madisonproject.com
Bonus Legislation
[Every week, we will try to spotlight some positive legislation that is worthy of conservative support.]
H.R. 6000: Validating Entitlement Recipients through Indicated Federal Immigration Status (VERIFI) Act
Last week, Obama announced that he would no longer follow the law and deport those illegals who would otherwise qualify for the DREAM Act - a law that never passed Congress. Unfortunately, the response from many GOP leaders has been tepid at best, while many of them are claiming that granting citizenship to these people will make them productive members of society. What they forget to tell you is that most of them are from poor families are low-skilled workers. Once they become permanent legal residents, they will be entitled to sundry welfare programs. Just the earned income tax credit alone would cost tens of billions annually.
Congressman Todd Akin (R-MO) [who was endorsed by The Madison Project in his bid for the Senate] introduced H.R. 6000, a bill that would block all access to Medicare, Social Security or food stamps for all those who were illegal prior to any administrative amnesty. This is pure commonsense even to those in the pro-amnesty crowd. At a time when our welfare and entitlement rolls are growing exponentially, we cannot afford to support those who have come here illegally. The bill has just 11 original cosponsors. Please call your members of Congress and request them to cosponsor this commonsense bill.
Update: Colorado Fire
COLORADO FIRE A MAJOR DISTRACTION/DISRUPTION TO MINISTRIES
Posted: 29 JUNE, 2012
Mission News Network
The devastating fire near Colorado Springs, Colo., continued to grow Thursday, even as the city began to assess the damage.
More than 32,000 people in Colorado's second-most-populous city and its environs have been forced from their homes because of the fire. As of Thursday morning, 18,500 acres have burned.
Although the Air Force Academy grounds survived mainly intact, 10 acres were charred along the southwest boundary. Best estimates now are that at least 300 homes have burned to the ground. President Obama is visiting the area today and has already pledged federal funds to help rebuild.
Rich Blanco, Vice President for Outreach at Biblica, says it's not just the size of the fire that makes it noteworthy. "I believe there are over 70 organizations that have their headquarters here in Colorado Springs, and well over 100 that are represented here in Colorado Springs. Over the last several days, hearing the reports and seeing the smoke and really not knowing what's going to happen--the nightmare started as the fire crested the hill of the front range and then sort of started coming over."
Famous structures like the Navigators' Glen Eyrie conference grounds were at risk. However, at last report from the Navigators, aside from damage to one small structure at Eagle Lake, the Glen Eyrie property was untouched by the fires. Since the staff was in the evacuation area, the Navigators are currently running "essential operations" out of Focus on the Family's offices.
Blanco says he, his family, and some of their staff were all evacuated, although Biblica's campus seemed to be out of danger. Still, "It really does create a distraction for the whole community. People are just trying to get reports on where the fire is going next. For people who have been evacuated, getting information on whether their house is actually still intact."
The frenzied activity, the worry, discouragement, fear and stress caused by the fires: all a "distraction?" getting work done, but "we're kind of in that stage where you're reacting and responding to what's happening right outside of your front door, but also still trying to continue to move the ball forward, so to speak, with your global ministry, and that's the case with Biblica."
And there's the rub: "We're in the middle of some incredible opportunities in the Middle East, and the number of attacks from the enemy seems to just be on the rise." Is it a coincidence that, in a time when Bible translation has been accelerated by decades, more people than ever are responding to the Gospel, and there is an active jihad to stop the advance of Christianity, that you see a fire strike at the heart of a Great Commission hub? "We look at this as one of those. This is just a way for Satan to distract us from what the Lord has called us to do as an organization."
It's a different take on a natural disaster. Does it sound a little kooky? Blanco joins many other Christian leaders who are calling it what it is. "I think the first step in really overcoming that, is acknowledging what it is and then praying to the Lord for the strength and perseverance to press through, yet again, another spiritual battle."
Will you pray?
Urgent Alert: SYRIA
Gulf sources report US, Gulf armies on high alert pending Syria action
DEBKAfile June 28, 2012, 10:17 AM (GMT+02:00)
This military alert is reported Thursday by various Gulf sources, including the US military, pending a strike against Syria in two days. This report, according to which NATO forces are about to move to Turkey, is not confirmed by any official source. US forces in the Gulf are apparently on forward positions and high alert, as are Saudi Special Forces and National Guard. Israel too is reported in mobilization. Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan is said to be preparing an extraordinary parliament session to authorize Syria intervention. The same unconfirmed sources cite Saturday as the day of the NATO attack, when in Geneva, the UN Action Group hold its first meeting to approve a transitional unity government in Damascus. The five UN Security Council powers, the EU and Arab League are represented, but not Iran or Saudi Arabia.
Read more.
Saudi forces mass on Jordanian, Iraqi borders. Turkey, Syria reinforce strength
DEBKAfile Special Report June 29, 2012, 11:02 AM (GMT+02:00)
The Syrian crisis was Friday, June 29, on a knife edge between a Western-Arab-Turkish military offensive in the next 48 hours and a big power accord to ward it off.
debkafile's military sources report heavy Saudi troop movements toward the Jordanian and Iraqi borders Thursday overnight and up until Friday morning, June 29, after King Abdullah put the Saudi military on high alert for joining an anti-Assad offensive in Syria. The Saudi units are poised with tanks, missiles, special forces and anti-air batteries to enter Jordan in two heads:
One will safeguard Jordan's King Abdullah against potential Syrian or Iranian reprisals from Syria or Iraq.
The second will cut north through Jordan to enter southeastern Syriam, where a security zone will be established around the towns of Deraa, Deir al-Zour and Abu Kemal - all centers of the anti-Assad rebellion. The region is also the home terrain of the Shammar tribe, brethren of the Shammars of the Saudi Nejd province. The Saudi units deployed on the Iraqi border are there to defend the kingdom against potential incursions by Iraqi Shiite militias crossing into the kingdom for reprisals. The Iraqi militias are well trained and armed and serve under officers of the Iranian Al-Qods Brigades, the Revolutionary Guards' external arm. Western Gulf sources report that Jordan too is on war alert.
Following the downing of a Turkish plane by Syria a week ago, Turkey continues to build up its Syrian border units with anti-aircraft guns, tanks and missiles towed by long convoys of trucks.
A Free Syria Army officer, Gen. Mustafa al-Sheikh, reported Friday that 170 Syrian army tanks of the 17th Mechanized Division were massed near the village of Musalmieh northeast of Aleppo, 30 km from the Turkish border. He said they stood ready to attack any Turkish forces crossing into Syria.
As these war preparations advanced, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton arrived in St. Petersburg Friday for crucial talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. They meet the day before the new UN-sponsored Action Group convenes in Geneva to discuss UN-Arab League envoy Kofi Annan's latest transition proposal for Syria. He hopes for a political settlement that will ward off military intervention. Invited to the meeting are the five veto-wielding UN Security Council members plus Turkey and Arab League envoys from Qatar, Kuwait and Iraq. . .
US-Russian concurrence on a plan for Assad's removal could avert the operation. The failure of their talks would spell a worsening of the Syrian crisis and precipitate Western-Arab military intervention, which according to military sources in the Gulf is scheduled for launch Saturday, June 30. (Read more.)
- We ask all of our Prayer Partners to stay tuned to this rapidly unfolding and volatile situation. May those in authority in all nations named move with the greatest wisdom, discretion, and caution . . . please do 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)
The Good News Corner
Mystery man saves church from foreclosure
MORGANTON, NC (WBTV) - A church in North Carolina is counting its blessings after a mystery man saved the day. In fact, a bank was ready to take over Grandview Baptist Church earlier this week after the church fell on hard times.
WBTV's Sharon Smith said it all started one day when stranger pulled up in a pickup truck and promptly put an end to the foreclosure.
Pastor John Whisnant Jr. said he had the worst day, and the best day, all rolled into one last Wednesday. That's when Grandview Baptist Church was about to be taken by the bank.
Grandview is a family church, where weddings are celebrated, loved ones are mourned, that is a second home to many, including the pastor's father.
"It's one of the worst things that I've ever experienced," said John Whisnant Sr.
After a lot of praying, crying and last-minute efforts, the deadline had arrived.
And then something remarkable happened. A stranger, a new man in the town, stopped by the church. "I never met him before," said Pastor Whisnant, who said he couldn't believe what happened next.
"Long story short, he basically said, 'What will it take to get the Bank of Granite off your back?'" said Whisnant. "And I told him and he said, 'Well, I'm going to take care of that for you.'"
The man gave a $345,000 gift - with no strings attached. Church members said it was a true miracle. "It's like if he'd have been ten minutes early leaving or late, or he'd been ten minutes later, we might not have heard from him again," said Whisnant Sr.
Members of the church have unpacked everything that had been packed up. Pastor Whisnant put his office back together. The piano, the podium and other things are all back in place. Folks said it feels good.
"The Bible says to whom much is given much is required," said Pastor Whisnant. "We are chomping at the bit to see what God has for us. We're going to serve to the best of our ability." (WTVR, Richmond, VA) Read more.
A note from CHPP:
We are blessed to end this tumultuous week by sharing this truly GOOD NEWS report with you! Our God is a God of miracles, for sure, and He is always right on time . . . meeting our needs.
Praise . . . the . . . LORD!
Worship with Us Today!
God Will Make a Way
Don Moen
God will make a way
Where there seems to be no way
He works in ways we cannot see
He will make a way for me
He will be my guide
Hold me closely to His side
With love and strength
For each new day
He will make a way
He will make a way
