On Capitol Hill This Week - January 12-16, 2009

In This Issue
· On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVI, No. 2
· NEWS LINKS FOR ISRAEL
· 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 WeekVolume XVI, Number 2 January 12 - 16, 2009

"Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD: and the people whom He hath chosen for His own inheritance." (Psalm 33:12)


On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVI, No. 2

1. 111TH CONGRESS BEGINS

The 2008 election of members to the 111th Congress has concluded with the exception of the Minnesota Senate race. The House of Representatives began with 434 of 435 members and the Senate began with 98 of 100 members. Due to the change in executive administration and the selection of cabinet members from the legislative branch, the membership profile that is to be expected for most of this Congress' duration is not yet known.

· Ask God to establish the leaders he would have for our nation, and to give our leaders wisdom in pursuing righteousness and justice.

· Greet all of your leaders and all the saints (Hebrews 13:24). Daniel said, Let the name of God be blessed forever and ever, For wisdom and power belong to Him. It is He who changes the times and the epochs; He removes kings and establishes kings; He gives wisdom to wise men And knowledge to men of understanding (Daniel 2:20-21).

2. SUPPRESSING DISSENT

The majority in the House of Representatives has taken steps to hush any voice of correction outside its own ranks. In the last Congress, the minority found in the motion to recommit with instructions a method of substantially modifying legislation without delay. The change in the rules prohibits this motion from not delaying legislation, thereby providing members of the majority with political cover for not supporting legislative innovations that originate in the other party.

· Ask God to give His people in Congress ways to make His words through their voices heard throughout the Halls of Congress and across our land.

· Take words with you and return to the Lord. Say to Him, Take away all iniquity, And receive us graciously, That we may present the fruit of our lips (Hosea 14:2).

3. ISRAEL AFFIRMED

The leaders of both chambers of Congress introduced resolutions to support Israel in its fight against Gaza: H.Res. 34 and S.Res. 10.

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

4. CROWDING OUT THE CULTURE OF LIFE

Members of the party that will soon control both legislative and executive branches of the federal government are now debating how they want to expand federal spending on embryonic stem cell research: through executive order or by legislation.

· Ask God to show all of our leaders the need to build on the affirmations of life during this past decade. Praise God for those leaders who are faithful to Him, and pray for wisdom and knowledge to show them how to maintain the gains for life we have seen in our nation.

· I declare to you today that you shall surely perish. You will not prolong your days in the land where you are crossing the Jordan to enter and possess it. I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, the blessing and the curse. So choose life in order that you may live , you and your descendants, by loving the LORD your God, by obeying His voice, and by holding fast to Him; for this is your life and the length of your days, that you may live in the land which the LORD swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give them. (Deuteronomy 30:18-20).

5. ECONOMIC STIMULUS

According to the Congressional Budget Office the sharp downturn in housing markets across the country has led the United States into a recession which began about a year ago and will last well into 2009, making it the longest recession since World War II. While there is ample motivation in Washington to address the problem, there is less clarity as to what can be done that would actually fix the problem.

· Ask God to give our leaders motivation to seek His guidance in their every decision. Ask God to give the American public a willingness to accept responsibility for the problem.

· The beginning of wisdom is: Acquire wisdom; And with all your acquiring, get understanding (Proverbs 4:7). O Lord, how many are Thy works! In wisdom Thou hast made them all; The earth is full of Thy possessions (Psalm 104:24).

6. SHAME ON BUSH AND CONDI

Betrayal. No other word describes the reversal of American foreign policy that took place on the night of Jan. 8 when the U.S. refused to veto the Security Council resolution on Gaza. A president whose friendship and alliance with Israel once appeared honest, perceptive and unshakable, decided two weeks before leaving office to throw Israel to the wolves. The resolution calls for a ceasefire in Gaza and does not even mention the word "Hamas."There will no longer be a need for an Obama transition team on foreign policy. The outgoing president and secretary of State have done it all. Yesterday's resolution, along with another Condoleezza Rice-inspired resolution from mid-December, draws Israel into a Security Council spider web that U.N. enthusiasts have been weaving for decades.

Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton can simply step into George W. Bush and Condi Rice's shoes, label themselves new-age multilateralists and let the remnants of Israel fall where they may.The Security Council resolution makes a mockery of Israel's right of self-defense. In fact, it makes no mention of a right of self-defense at all. Eight thousand mortars have rained down on Israel from the Gaza Strip over a period of eight years.Israel withdrew every Israeli man, woman and child from Gaza three and a half years ago. Yet the United Nations draws an equivalence between a terrorist organization whose very modus operandi is to target civilians and a state whose aim is to protect civilians, Israeli and Palestinian.

Arab states could scarcely contain their glee. The U.K. went out in front and accepted the idea of a much stronger resolution instead of a Security Council presidential statement, and Secretary of State Rice rolled over and played dead within minutes. Veto-wielding powers had reportedly given undertakings to Israel's Prime Minister Ehud Olmert that they would not permit a resolution. These promises were ignored in the face of allegedly enormous pressure from undemocratic thugs, state sponsors of terrorism and weak democracies cowering at the prospect of unhappy Muslim constituencies or a dent in their bank accounts from belligerent Arab sheiks. What, moaned U.S. officials, was poor Condi to do?

1. The resolution she supported makes no mention whatsoever of Israel's right of self-defense.

2. The resolution calls for a ceasefire while Israel is still under fire, thus gutting the right of self-defense.

3. The resolution puts a right of "all" states "to live in peace"--though Israel is the only state under fire--in its preamble instead of in the operative section of the resolution, where it would have carried substantive weight.

4. The resolution expresses grave concern only about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. No concern is expressed over the humanitarian crisis in Israel that has forced half a million people into underground holes for eight years and left Jewish children growing up with the trauma of fleeing and hiding throughout their young lives.

5. The resolution makes no mention of any need to return Hamas kidnap-victim and Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit. It does not even demand that Hamas or the Palestinian Authority abide by the humanitarian requirement under international law to permit a single visit to Shalit from the International Red Cross or any other international agency.

6. The resolution calls for "unimpeded" provision and distribution throughout Gaza of myriad forms of humanitarian assistance--which obviously makes the conduct of war against Hamas terrorists impossible.

7. The resolution condemns "all acts of terrorism"--without mentioning the identity of the terrorist--leaving Islamic countries to claim that Israel is the state terrorist and that the condemnation has nothing to do with Hamas.

8. The resolution places no mandatory responsibility on Egypt to stop the trafficking of weapons into the terrorist-controlled Gaza strip. It merely "calls for member states to intensify efforts" to stop the trafficking.

9. The resolution promotes further international intervention in the Arab-Israeli conflict, rather than a negotiated settlement between the two parties, by "welcoming...an international meeting in Moscow in 2009." Code language for shoving U.N. terms and conditions down Israel's throat.

10. The kicker is that the Security Council "decides to remain seized of the matter." This means Israel's failure to abide by any of the points in the resolution is grounds for more and more Security Council meetings designed to thwart Israel's right to defend itself against the terrorism that threatens all civilized societies.When it was over, Secretary of State Rice "abstained" with the following words: "this resolution, the text of which we support, the goals of which we support, and the objectives that we fully support, should indeed be allowed to go forward." These words led other ambassadors to point out that the resolution had, in effect, been adopted by consensus.Israel's prime minister reacted to the resolution today by pointing to the obvious:

It "will not be honored in actual fact by the Palestinian murder organizations." And though UN actors wish it were otherwise, "The State of Israel has never agreed that any outside body would determine its right to defend the security of its citizens." (

www.EYEontheUN.org)

·This matter of America standing with Israel has not been clarified in the media. Perhaps the Lord wants us to concentrate on the salvation of those Americans who stand on the slopes of indecision, for when America turns her back on Israel, God can no longer bless America. Throw our country on the mercy of the Lord! And pray for those who are so deceived.

· "O Lord, revive Your work in the midst of years. In the midst of years make it known; In wrath remember mercy." (Habakkuk 3:2)

7. HAMAS STEALING AID SUPPLIES TO SELL TO RESIDENTS

A government or a gang? As the Israeli operation in Gaza wears on, it appears Hamas has relinquished any visage of a socio-political party, abandoning its claim to govern the residents of Gaza in favor of engaging in open war at their expense. A number of reports from the Strip paint a picture of very difficult humanitarian conditions, not least because of Hamas itself.

The suspicion is that the group's operatives have seized control of any supplies passing through the crossings-including those sent by Israel and international organizations. Reports say Hamas takes a cut out of all aid that arrives, including flour and medicine. Supplies intended to be distributed without gain among the population are seized by the group and sold to the residents, at a profit to the Hamas government.One such incident was recorded January 5, when a convoy of trucks carrying supplies through the Kerem Shalom crossing was fired upon and seized by Hamas gunmen. Similar incidents occurred with trucks carrying fuel.In other cases, civilians are simply used as cannon fodder or human shields. Reports out of Gaza say residents who attempted to flee their homes in the northern area of the Strip were forced to go back at gunpoint, by Hamas men.

Other civilian complaints state that Hamas gunmen pull children along with them "by the ears" from place to place, fearing that if they don't have a child with them they will be fair game to the IDF. Others hide in civilian homes and stairwells, UNRWA ambulances, and mosques. The animosity towards Israel has not disappeared, say the sources, but it is now accompanied by bitterness towards the organization many are dubbing Iranian in its extremism. (Ynetnews.com)

· Pray that the supplies intended for public relief in Gaza will reach those in need and Hamas's activities will be exposed and contained. Pray that the Lord will expose such criminal activity to the world media that will have no ability to deny the truth. That any people could behave so heinously towards its own people is incomprehensible.

· "Do not rob the poor because he is poor. Nor oppress the afflicted at the gate; For the Lord will plead their cause And plunder the soul of those who plunder him." (Proverbs 22:22,23)

8. IDF: HAMAS BUILT UNDERGROUND CITY

IDF forces operating in northern Gaza have quickly become familiar with the enemy's modes of operation. According to commanders and soldiers, Hamas has built an underground city of tunnels and holes paved with weapons. Many Hamas members have dug tunnels for themselves under their homes and hid weapon caches in them.One of the Air Force strikes in Gaza, not far from the Shifa Hospital, revealed weapons hidden in the area. Following the explosion, the bottom part of the bunker was blown away, exposing a maze of tunnels.

IDF officials said the terrorists emerge from the tunnels, hide in them, attempt to kidnap soldiers into them and place different traps in a bid to attract the soldiers. The Hamas men try to initiate close combat, face-to-face, and use different methods-covering tunnels with dolls, placing explosives in schools and wearing IDF uniforms.

The forces are still being prepared for the operation, and medical teams have been trained at the simulator of the Army Logistic Training Center. "We are simulating a complicated incident with a large number of casualties according to the threats in the Strip," said Lieutenant-General Yoel Har-Even, head of the Medical Corps' training unit. (Ynetnews.com)

· Pray that the war preparations created by Hamas will be exposed and destroyed. Pray also that the residents of Gaza, so annoyed with Hamas, will bring information to the IDF about the location of these tunnels. Pray for the protection of the IDF forces.

· "Then we departed from the river of Ahava on the twelfth day of the first month, to go to Jerusalem. And the hand of our God was upon us, and He delivered us from the hand of the enemy and from ambush along the road" (Ezra 8:31).

9. INCOME FROM GAZA TUNNELS SOME US $650 MILLION A YEAR

The residents of Rafah have been worried since the start of Operation Cast Lead, in no part because of the economic downturn that could result from damage to the tunnels used for smuggling goods from Egypt. It is no secret that the tunnels have been a source of prosperity for this Gaza city for the past two years, and there is great concern that future security arrangements will limit their use.Economic figures from the tunnel business were published last month by a research institute in the Gaza Strip. According to these statistics, unemployment figures in Rafah reached 20% in December 2008, as compared to 50% in December 2007. The workforce in Rafah is estimated to stand at about 18,000 people.Expansion of the tunnel business attracted workers from all over the Strip, some of whom were looking for employment and others for commercial purposes. This was quickly translated into a marked increase in economic activity in the city, including both in merchandise supply in stores and in new restaurants and coffee shops springing up.

According to the Palestinian figures, the increase in the number of tunnels since Hamas has risen to power has been astronomical. By the middle of 2007, some 20 tunnels were open in Rafah, while only a year later upwards of 500 tunnels were in operation. Most of the tunnels were dug within a limited 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) area along the Gaza-Egypt border in the neighborhoods of Tel Zareb, Brazil, and al-Abur, where the ground allows for such digging. The length of the tunnels usually ranges from 200 meters (0.1 miles) to 1 kilometer (0.6 miles). Digging a tunnel takes weeks, or even months, depending on its length. The cost of digging per 1 meter of tunnel is about US $100. Sources in Rafah know that the higher the cost of digging a tunnel, the higher the appetite of the tunnel owners for higher revenues, a fact that usually trickles down in price to the average consumer.

Economic groups in the Gaza Strip claim that income created as a result of smuggling via the tunnels averaged about US $30 million a year until 2006 and reached US $650 million the first year Hamas came to power. These massive sums found their way into the pockets of the tunnel owners and the Hamas government.According to this same research institute, ever since Hamas came to power, there has been a marked increase in the number of children begging for handouts in the streets. However, the researchers noted that despite their negative effects on the Gazan economy, "the tunnels played an important role in dealing with the blockade." (Ynetnews.com)

· Pray that the tunnel activities will be contained and their illegal function will be stopped. Pray for the protection of the minds of the Palestinian children against the horrific lessons that they have learned from the elders in their culture. Do these people truly love their children?

· "In the house of the righteous there is much treasure, but in the revenue of the wicked is trouble" (Proverbs 15:6).

NEWS LINKS FOR ISRAEL

In this time of war, it is important to keep up with the news out of Israel, which is now changing hour by hour. We encourage our readers to visit the sites below for current information in Israel, and to pray as our Lord would direct . . .

In addition, many of these news sources have a daily e-mail update you can sign up for.

1. DEBKAfile www.debka.com

2. Israel National News www.israelnationalnews.com

3. Jerusalem Newswire www.jnewswire.com

4. Jerusalem Post www.jpost.com

5. Jerusalem Watchman www.stangoodenough.com

6. WorldNetDaily www.worldnetdaily.com

7. World Watch Daily -- Koenig's International News http://watch.org

8. Worthy News www.worthynews.com

9. YouTube -- Note: IDF has posted many videos on YouTube.

Search "IDF"www.youtube.com

This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .

THE LORD IS THERE (Adnoi Shahmah)

"And the name of the city from that time on will be: The LORD is There ." (Ezek.48:35)

Dear Father,

What a comfort to know that deep in my soul, whatever trouble assails me, You are there with me.

Just as You chose Jerusalem to be the city in which You dwelt, You also dwell in the heart of every child of God. May I never doubt that You are always there for me.

(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)

CHPP Daily Brief - January 9, 2009

In This Issue
· The Daily Brief
· The Middle East in Focus

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

The Daily Brief Friday, January 9, 2009

"Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD: and the people whom He hath chosen for His own inheritance." (Psalm 33:12)


The Daily Brief

1. Pro-Life Group Permitted At Obama Inauguration - Worthy News

A Christian conservative group in the United States has received permission to display a pro life vigil, which consists of 25 large signs showing the development of life from conception to birth, along the parade route during the Presidential Inauguration.

- As the anticipation of the upcoming inauguration grows, we pray that those who will stand for the unborn will be able to spread the message of the unborn who have been slaughtered legally since 1973. We pray that those who pass this display, both politicians and onlookers, will be moved to protect the most vulnerable citizens of this nation.

- By You I have been sustained from my birth; You are He who took me from my mother's womb; My praise is continually of You. (Psalm 71:6)

2. Governor says impeachment vote is politically driven - CNN

Hours after being impeached by an overwhelming vote in the Illinois House of Representatives, a defiant Gov. Rod Blagojevich proclaimed Friday that he was not guilty of impeachable offenses and would fight "every step of the way."

- Lord, we pray for law-breakers to be shamed so that they voluntarily give up their ill gotten power. We also pray that men and women of God will prayerfully enter politics and provide a second path for voters who are disgusted by the power-hungry bent of recent politics.

- How long, O naive ones, will you love being simple- minded? And scoffers delight themselves in scoffing And fools hate knowledge? (Proverbs 1:22)

3. Vote to End Fairness Doctrine Not in Works, Hoyer Says - CNSNews.com

The House Democratic leadership, which controls the legislative schedule, currently has no plans to bring the Broadcaster Freedom Act - which would permanently ban the Fairness Doctrine - up for a vote, House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) told CNSNews.com at the Capitol on Wednesday.

- This development is praise-worthy as Christians have been able to advance their views on the radio though they have been shut out of other media outlets. Lord, we pray that those who are on the radio and on television will recognize their responsibility to act in the public interest so that government intervention will not be necessary.

- So speak and so act as those who are to be judged by the law of liberty. (James 2:12)

4. Gaza Conflict Moves to Virtual World - Fox News

A shadow war between pro-Israeli and pro-Hamas forces is taking place on the Internet - and it is getting fierce. If you're one of millions of Americans who use social-networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter or participate in virtual worlds like "Second Life," don't be surprised if you get sucked into a war thousands of miles away in Gaza. Facebook users can use applications to set messages in their status bars expressing affiliation with one side or the other. An application called "Qassam Count" enables users to voice their support for Israel by automatically updating their status bar when rockets are fired from Gaza into the Jewish state.

- We are amazed by the growth of technology which allows people from all over the world to gather together. Lord, we pray that Your people will use this technology to bind together in prayer, and we will stand firm against those who advance hate, no matter what the venue.

- Blessed are you when men hate you, and ostracize you, and insult you, and scorn your name as evil, for the sake of the Son of Man. (Luke 6:22)

5. Son of ex-Liberian leader sentenced to 97 years in prison - CNN

The son of former Liberian President Charles Taylor Sr. was sentenced Friday to 97 years in prison for charges including torture and conspiracy, according to a federal court in Florida.

- We praise You that this man has been caught and tried and has to answer for his crimes. We pray for peace and healing for the victims of the Liberian regime and for their families and for freedom for those who are currently being victimized by dictators throughout Africa and the rest of the world.

- The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly. (John 10:10)

6. Jailed Missionaries in Gambia Seek Freedom - Worthy News

A British missionary couple sentenced to one year jail terms with hard labor for "sedition" in The Gambia, has "apologized" to the government of President Yahya Jammeh and asked him for clemency through a letter read on national television.

- Lord, we praise You for those who have followed Your commandment to go and preach the gospel. We pray for the safety of missionaries throughout the world and for continuing opportunities for Your name to be glorified in previously closed countries. May Your word and Your gospel continue to spread despite opposition.

- You will be hated by all because of My name, but it is the one who has endured to the end who will be saved. (Matthew 10:22)

The Middle East in Focus

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

"I will defend my house against marauding forces. Never again will an oppressor overrun my people, for now I am keeping watch." (Zech. 9:8)

1. U.N. Resolution Passes with U.S. Abstaining, Israel Continues Operation - Worthy News

The United Nations Security Council has passed a resolution calling for an "immediate cease-fire" in the Gaza Strip. The United States abstained in the vote as the council passed the resolution 14-0. However, Israel continued a military offensive Friday, January 9, saying it has an obligation to protect its citizens, including one million Israelis who face threats from rockets fired from Gaza by Hamas militants.

2. Israel Blames Hamas For Civilian Deaths In Gaza - Worthy News

Despite a United Nations Security Council resolution calling for a cease-fire in the Gaza Strip, Israel continued its operation in the Gaza Strip Friday, January 9, saying it was trying to halt rocket attacks from Hamas militants, "hiding" between civilians.

CHPP Daily Brief - January 8, 2009

In This Issue
· The Daily Brief
· The Middle East in Focus
· Second-Guessing First Prevention
· United under God
· House Democrats Change Rules to Silence GOP
· Prayers for Israel (Part 1)

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

The Daily Brief Thursday, January 8, 2009

"Lord, Your word is forever; it is firmly fixed in heaven. Your faithfulness is for all generations; You established the earth and it stands firm." (Psalm 119:89-90)

The Daily Brief

1. Obama Picks Foreign Envoys - CBS News

Transition officials confirm that President-elect Obama has asked Dennis Ross, Richard Haas, and Richard Holbrooke, to serve as his chief emissaries to world hot spots. Ross and Holbrooke both served in senior Clinton administration roles. Haas had senior posts in the Bush administration from 2001 to 2003 and in the administration of President George H.W. Bush.It's expected that Ross will be assigned the Iran portfolio, that Holbrooke, the hard-headed architect of the Dayton Peace Accords, will take the difficult Southwest Asia portfolio, including India, Afghanistan and Pakistan, and that Haas will deal with the Middle East. Each men's turf is still in flux, so these early assignments are not firm.

· Father, we ask that each of these men be placed according to Your will and not that of man. If they are not Your choices, we ask they be removed. If they are, we pray that they will be effective in building relationships that will stabilize rather than create more problems.

· "Receive My instruction and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold." (Proverbs 8:10)

2. A. Obama Inauguration Attractive Target for Terrorist Attacks - AP

The upcoming inauguration of Barack Obama is an attractive target for international and domestic terrorists, but U.S. intelligence officials have no information about specific threats to the Jan. 20 event.An internal intelligence assessment, obtained by The Associated Press on Wednesday, says the high visibility of the event, the presence of dignitaries and the significance of swearing in America's first black president make the inauguration vulnerable to attacks.

B. Secret Service Calls Obama's Limo: "The Beast" - Fox News

President-elect Barack Obama will ride in a new, heavily armored limousine during his Inaugural parade January 20th.The vehicle, referred to by the Secret Service as "the beast," will reportedly feature heavy armor that is at least 5 inches thick and comes complete with run-flat tires, bulletproof glass and a completely sealed interior to ward off a chemical attack, among many other high-tech security features.

· Father, while the nickname of the new Presidential limousine makes all of us shudder, we ask that it shield the President-elect from any plans of the enemy. We pray Your most holy protection over the entire inauguration, that it go smoothly without incident or problems. We call forth Your Heavenly host to do battle against terrorism, or civil unrest of any kind.

· "and behold the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about " (1 Kings 6:17)

3. Federal Judge to Hear Atheist's Attempt to Stop Inauguration Prayers - CNS News

Will the Rev. Rick Warren be allowed to give the invocation at the inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama? Maybe not, if atheist Michael Newdow gets his way.A federal judge said Monday that he will hear arguments by Newdow, the American Humanist Association and 38 other atheist groups and individuals out to stop prayers from being said on Jan. 20. Warren, an evangelical minister who is currently under fire from homosexual activists for his stance in defense of marriage as being between one man and one woman, is one of the defendants named in the suit. Others include Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts; Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.); Maj. Gen. Richard J. Rowe Jr., and Rev. Joe Lowery, who will pray the benediction.

· Since when does a lower court have the right to tell a Supreme Court Justice what to do? Pray that this lawsuit will be so poorly written and presented that the court will have no choice but to dismiss it. Pray that the federal judge presiding over the case will see the truth, and not destroy centuries of precedent in most public ceremonies.

· "For this God is our God forever and forever" (Psalm 48:14a)

4. Obama Calls for 'Dramatic Action' to Jolt Economy Out of Recession - Fox News

President-elect Barack Obama called for "dramatic action" to pull the economy out of recession Thursday, as he made his highest-profile case yet for a nearly $800 billion stimulus plan.

· Father, we pray for wisdom on the part of legislators when responding to this appeal. We know that spending money that does not exist ultimately has one outcome, and that is disaster. We ask for a way out where there seems to be no way. You are the God of mercy, and we call upon you for Your help at this time of need.

· "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him." (James 1:5)

5. Pelosi Overturns Centuries Old House Rules - Newsmax

In a naked power grab for Democrats, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has angered Republicans by pushing through a rule change to curb the GOP's rights to affect legislation. The rule change - approved on Tuesday, the first day of the 111th Congress - puts new restrictions on motions to "recommit" a bill to the committee that approved it in order to add new amendments.

· Lord, we ask that this move will have the opposite effect than was intended, and that it will not destroy the opposing party's ability to affect legislation. We pray that no legislator will be rushed to decisions which are contrary to wise actions, and that this will cause all of Congress to consider bills more carefully than before. We pray that you will bring righteousness and truth to our Congress.

· "Surely He shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler " (Psalm 91:3a)

6. Israel Hit by Rockets from Lebanon, Conflict Widens - Fox News

A Hezbollah minister in Lebanon's Cabinet is denying any involvement by the militant group in the firing of rockets from Lebanon into Israel.At least three rockets were fired, and Israel responded with a few artillery shells into Lebanon, which borders the country to the north. The exchange threatened to open a second front as Israel continues its offensive against the militant group Hamas on its southern border, in the Gaza Strip.

· Lord as Israel's enemies surround her, we call on Your Name to save her.

· "Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God's." (2 Chronicles 20:15b)

7. Thousands Flee Historic Floods in Western Washington - AP

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,477445,00.html (read more)

Colorado Wildfires Force the Evacuation of Hundreds - AP

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,477749,00.html (read more)

CDC: Salmonella Outbreak Sickens 388 in 42 States - Reuters

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,477755,00.html (read more)

· Lord, we pray for the people in the above natural disasters. We call on Your love and mercy to help in time of need. We repent of our sins and pray Your forgiveness over the land and the people. We take authority over the storms, the fire, and the pestilence and stand against them in the mighty Name of Jesus!

· "When thou passeth through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee; when thou walkest through fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee." (Isaiah 43:2)

8. Dem Senators Oppose Obama's Tax Plan - AP

President-elect's proposed tax cuts hit hurdle from senators in his own party who say it wouldn't do much to jolt the economy.

· Offer praise that a number of members from the President-Elect's own party are publicly offering constructive criticism of pending policy decisions. It is this kind of attitude and courage that distinguishes our own form of government from that of dictatorships. Press in, in prayer, that such vigorous debate would continue to be manifested throughout the next administration.

· "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people." (Proverbs 14:34)

9. Committee: Impeach Blago - AP

Illinois House to vote Friday after panel unanimously recommends impeaching Gov. Blagojevich for abuse of power.

· Clearly, the citizens of the State of Illinois, as well as its leaders, are having a big year. Offer praise that the governing authorities of the State of Illinois have been emboldened to take this step. Ask for wisdom to be granted to the full House in Springfield when they vote on this decision. Pray!

· "When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when the wicked are in authority, the people mourn." (Proverbs 29:2)

10. Mr. Ellison Goes to Mecca - Fox News

Rep. Keith Ellison's pilgrimage, the first by a congressman to Islam's holy city, was backed by what one terror expert calls a 'Muslim equivalent of the neo- Nazi party.'

· Offer praise that this holiday journey has come to light, and ask that Congress respond in some manner (hearings, investigations, etc.) to the activities of this member. Scrutiny is in order.

· "Go, post a watchman; let him declare what he seeth." (Isaiah 21:6)

The Middle East in Focus

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

"Through God we will do valiantly, For it is He who shall tread down our enemies." (Psalm 108:13)

1. Christian Dies As Israeli Offensive Continues - Worthy News

A young Christian girl has died in the Gaza Strip, amid growing signs minority Christians there are caught in the crossfire as the Israeli army continues its offensive against militants of the Hamas group, Worthy News learned Thursday, January 8.

2. Christian Dies As Israeli Offensive Continues - Worthy News

A young Christian girl has died in the Gaza Strip, amid growing signs minority Christians there are caught in the crossfire as the Israeli army continues its offensive against militants of the Hamas group, Worthy News learned Thursday, January 8.

3. Israel Rejects EU Requested 48 Hour Ceasefire - Worthy News

Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has rejected a European Union request for a 48-hour ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, saying Israel will uphold its commitment to provide basic foodstuffs and medicines to the residents of the Hamas-controlled region.

4. IDF displays Hamas 'war map' seized in Gaza - ICEJ News

Israeli paratrooper's operating in northern Gaza this week captured a map prepared by Hamas that shows the terror militia's battle plan for ambushing IDF forces with various booby-trap bombs and sniper fire in the densely populated town of al-Atatra. The aerial map is handwritten and appears to have been created from a Google Map.

5. Egyptian-French ceasefire plan gaining steam - ICEJ News

Israel wants Cairo's 'guarantees' on blocking Gaza border tunnelsThe Egyptian-French proposal for a cease-fire continued to garner much attention from Jerusalem and Washington on Thursday as a plausible end to the fighting between Israeli and Hamas forces in the Gaza Strip.

6. UN stops Gaza aid convoys after Arab truck driver killed - ICEJ News

Dispute over cause of death; two IDF soldiers fall in combatIsraeli forces operating inside Gaza continued to cautiously press into more urban areas on Thursday to engage Hamas militiamen lurking among the civilian population, while a second 'humanitarian pause' ended with a UN truck driver killed under unclear circumstances.

Second-Guessing First Prevention

On the first day of the 111th Congress, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) sent a very clear message about what pro-lifers can expect from the next two years by introducing S. 21, "The Prevention First Act" that would direct hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars to the abortion industry, a business that already receives over $286 million each year from federal taxpayers.
It should come as no surprise that Planned Parenthood, the largest supporter of unrestricted abortion, praised the bill. And why not? The abortion merchant will likely be the largest beneficiary of Reid's abortion bailout. Among other things, the legislation would use taxpayer funds to mislead people about the potential of the "morning after pill" (known as Plan B) to act as an abortifacient. It also encourages the use of Plan B for victims of sexual assault yet has no reporting requirement in place for young girls who may have been victims of abuse and/or rape. When you get right down to it, the bill does nothing to support parental involvement--let alone consent--for dispensing the morning after pill and other "contraception" to minors.

In addition to funding Plan B, the measure would also: subsidize birth control for college and low-income women; expand Title X, the main federal family planning program that requires abortion referrals; expand Planned Parenthood targeting of low-income women through Medicaid; target teens' with "comprehensive" sex education; and spread emergency contraception. (Family Research Council)

United under God

While plenty of people are scrambling for tickets to Barack Obama's swearing-in, most of us never thought the Almighty would be one of them. A hearing scheduled for next Thursday in Washington, D.C. will determine whether God is invited to this month's Presidential Inauguration. Last month, atheist troublemaker and American Humanist President Michael Newdow filed suit to stop the tradition of prayer at the ceremony, as well as the final words of the presidential oath, "So help me God."

Of course, the Founders of our country understood the "establishment" of religion to mean the creation of an official national church. It would never have occurred to them to claim (as today's atheists do) that the mere ceremonial acknowledgment of God at a public event represents an "establishment" of religion. Newdow made the same challenge in 2001 and 2005 but to no avail. His chances of succeeding this time may be even slimmer, thanks to the intervention of 50 state leaders. Down to a person, each member of the elite club of attorney generals--regardless of their party or religious affiliations--joined a rare coalition in defense of the nation's spiritual tradition.
Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott has been the most vocal of the group, spearheading a counter- movement which now includes Chief Justice John Roberts, Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), and Revs. Rick Warren and Joseph Lowery. Although the suit has virtually no future in the court, it is incredibly encouraging--and significant--to note that despite the many efforts to secularize our country, all 50 state attorney generals linked arms to preserve our religious liberties. (Family Research Council)

House Democrats Change Rules to Silence GOP
U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., has brought back archaic procedures in order to silence conservatives. On Tuesday, the full House passed the Rules Package for the 111th Congress, 242-181. The changes limit the GOP's ability to use procedural rules like the Motion to Recommit, which is the last opportunity for the minority party to amend a bill before it passes. "The new rules consolidate power in the hands of a few and attempt to silence Republican input on key policy debates, in addition to making a mockery of the Democratic leaders' promises of presiding over an open Congress," Rep. Roy Blunt, R-Mo., said in a statement.

In the last Congress, Republicans were able to block some of the Democrats' tax increases using a Motion to Recommit. California Rep. David Dreier, ranking Republican on the House Rules Committee, called Pelosi's changes an "act of pure cynicism," according to The Washington Times. He said the changes will create "the most closed Congress in history."

Tom McClusky, vice president for government affairs at FRC Action, agreed. "It severely limits the democratic process in the House," he said, "and doesn't allow the minority to speak out on a number of issues where they represent a large amount of the American public." The House also repealed a rule limiting committee chairmen to three terms as head of a committee. (CitizenLink)
· It looks like the Republicans will need an absolute miracle in order to break this gag-order rule from taking effect on the House floor. Thankfully, we know where to go to ask for a miracle. Let's cry out that this rule can somehow be reversed, so that full, participatory debate can continue in our United States Congress.

· Devise your strategy, but it will be thwarted; propose your plan, but it will not stand, for God is with us. (Isaiah 8:10)

Prayers for Israel (Part 1)

Submitted by: Arrows from Zion

A note about the necessity of this war you are not seeing on the nightly news:Many Christians do not realize the nature of this war. Some think it is about Israeli soldiers fighting against Palestinian soldiers, but the reality is it is about Israeli soldiers fighting against the jihad of international terrorism. It is important to understand that Israel is fighting against Hamas terrorists who have been running Gaza and terrorizing Israeli residents in the cities around Gaza by relentlessly lobbing rockets into Israel. The situation is something that even Left wing (nut) Senator Harry Reid understands: "I think what the Israelis are doing is very important," Sen. Reid said. "I think this terrorist organization, Hamas, has got to be put away. They've got to come to their senses."
People who are informed about the situation come to the same reasonable conclusion:- Since Israel pulled out of Gaza in 2006, 10,000 rockets and mortars have been fired at our civilian population;- Half a million people are in range of the Hamas missiles, including the large population centers of Beer Sheva, Ashkelon, and Ashdod;

"Ashkelon will see it and fear; Gaza will writhe in agony, and Ekron too, for her hope will wither. Gaza will lose her king and Ashkelon will be deserted. Foreigners will occupy Ashdod, and I will cut off the pride of the Philistines. I will take the blood from their mouths, the forbidden food from between their teeth. Those who are left will belong to our God and become leaders in Judah, and Ekron will be like the Jebusites. But I will defend my house against marauding forces. Never again will an oppressor overrun my people, for now I am keeping watch." (Zechariah 9:5-8)

· Pray that world leaders - even in nations that generally do not speak up for Israel - will continue to agree that Israel is taking action that was necessary to root out the Hamas terrorist with a stranglehold on Gaza.

· Pray for the tiny nation of Israel where in a military call up of this scale, few families are not touched by a son, father, husband or close loved one going into a dangerous war. At this writing only 3 Israeli lives have been lost - pray God's continued protection over them.

· Pray for the parents of the believer soldiers who are in this conflict for the shield of faith to cover their minds and emotions. For the "Divine sedative" of trust in the Lord to keep them in peace. · Pray Iran and Hizballah keep out of this fight and that international pressure will not force Israel out prematurely -- that the job would be finished and Hamas crippled from rising up again; that the infrastructure and resources of terrorism would be fully eradicated from Gaza.

· Pray for fair media coverage, for Hamas supporter-protesters' lies to be exposed and the 'victim card' removed from voices seeking to deceive and manipulate.

· Pray for the continued pure heart in the Israeli ministries in the prayer directions they are giving to supporters. Nothing pleases God more than when we pray according to HIS heart.

· Pray for the rescue of IDF soldier Gilad Shalit from terrorist captivity in Gaza.

CHPP Daily Brief - January 7, 2009

In This Issue
· The Daily Brief
· The Middle East in Focus

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

The Daily Brief Wednesday, Jananuary 7, 2009

The Daily Brief

1. Israel Opens Humanitarian Aid Corridor - Worthy News''

Israel is halting its military operations for three hours each day beginning Wednesday, January 7, to allow humanitarian aid to enter into Gaza, Israeli officials said.

· Praise the Lord for this move on the part of the Israelis, probably a move that would never be contemplated by Hamas. What more do the Israelis have to do to gain the approval of the world powers who are so quick to condemn Israel? Pray that any humanitarian aid entering Gaza be just that - with no rockets or other munitions hidden within the aid. Let the Israelis have eyes that spot and identify any materials not humanitarian.

· "Let not mercy and truth forsake you. Write them on the tablet of your heart. And so find favor and high esteem in the sight of God and man." (Proverbs 3: 3,4)

2. Israel Prepares For Rocket Attacks From Lebanon - Worthy News

As Israel continued its ground assault into the Gaza Strip Monday, January 5, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) were on high alert along the country's northern border amid concerns the militant Hezbollah group would fire rockets from Lebanon in revenge for the offensive.

· Ask the Lord to block any attack from terrorist groups from Lebanon or any other border. Pray that the Lord will send Michael and a host of His warrior angels to Israel's borders, angels that the terrorists can actually see. Pray peace into the Israelis' hearts as they boldly take stands to defend their country.

· "O, Israel, hope in the Lord; For with the Lord there is mercy. And with Him is abundant redemption." (Psalm 129:7)

3. U.S. Opens New Embassy in Baghdad - Worthy News

Amid tight security, the United States embassy in Iraq's capital Baghdad was open for business Tuesday, January 6, after a dedication ceremony to open what is the largest embassy compound in the world.

· Pray that this new embassy stands strong amid the oft troubled situation in Iraq. Ask the Lord to surround the compound with angels to prevent any attacks or bombings. Pray for God-chosen people to be the ambassador and staff.

· "When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice." (Proverbs 29:2a)

4. Russia's Putin Orders Halt To Gas Shipments Via Ukraine - Worthy News

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin asked state-run energy giant Gazprom to cease all deliveries of natural gas into Ukraine, destined for Europe, Russian state media reported Wednesday, January 7, despite reports that over a dozen people in Europe already froze to death as temperatures dropped.

· Putin seems determined to destroy the Ukraine one way or another. Obviously, this is a man whose conscience has been seared. Ask the Lord for strategies for the Ukraine to deal with this situation as well as those European countries that rely on Russia's natural gas.

· "The heart of the righteous studies how to answer, But the mouth of the wicked pours forth evil." (Proverbs 15: 28)

5.Powerful Earthquakes Kill Four, Causing Widespread Damage in Indonesia - Worthy News

Recovery work continued Monday, January 5, after at least four people were killed and dozens more injured as two powerful earthquakes hit Indonesia over the weekend, cutting power lines and destroying buildings, officials said.

· Pray that these earthquakes provide significant opportunity for spreading the gospel and leading people to salvation in Jesus Christ. Islam usually does not rush to aid victims to recover from or deal with loss. Let the light of Jesus shine in spiritually dark Indonesia.

· "For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be earthquakes in various places, and there will be famine and troubles. These are the beginnings of sorrows." (Mark 13: 8)

6. Feinstein Backs Panetta After Initial Hesitation - FoxNews.com

Senate Intelligence Committee chairwoman says she's now behind President-elect Obama's choice to head the CIA. "All systems are go" for Leon Panetta to head the CIA, California Sen. Dianne Feinstein said Wednesday, after initially questioning the decision of President-elect Barack Obama to tap former President Bill Clinton's chief of staff for the top spot at the nation's spy agency. Feinstein, chairwoman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, said she talked to Panetta, a longtime friend, for hours on Tuesday night and is decidedly behind the nomination now.

· Pray that if Panetta is not the Lord's choice for this post as head of the CIA, he shall be removed. Panetta has been named as one of the ultra-liberals. Since he has no experience with intelligence, why has Panetta been chosen by Obama for this important position? Of course, his appointment has to be confirmed by the Senate. Pray that Mr. Panetta receives salvation in Jesus Christ.

· "A ruler who lacks understanding is a great oppressor, But he who hates covetousness will prolong his days." (Proverbs 28:16)

7. Egypt's United Nation's envoy says Israel, Hamas and the Palestinian Authority will meet Thursday for talks. - FOXNews.com

Meanwhile, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, who was at U.N. headquarters for the council's emergency session on Gaza, said she had talked with both the Israelis and Arab envoys about the importance of moving forward a cease-fire proposed Tuesday by Egypt and France. "We are very much applauding the efforts of a number of states, particularly the effort that President (Hosni) Mubarak has undertaken on behalf of Egypt," Rice said. "We're supporting that initiative."Israel agreed to principles of the Gaza cease-fire proposal, but has yet to iron out key details about how it would be implemented, senior Israeli officials told Reuters. The proposal calls for an end to fighting as well as a drive to prevent Hamas militants from rearming, Israel's key condition, Reuters reported. Israel said it needs guarantees that any cease-fire will halt rocket fire and prevent Hamas from rearming, while Hamas demands that Gaza's blockaded border crossings be opened.U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon on Tuesday, called for an immediate end to fighting in the Gaza Strip during a meeting of the U.N. Security Council in New York. Ban criticized both Israel for its bombardment of Gaza and Hamas for firing rockets into Israel and urged members to act "swiftly and decisively to put this crisis to an end."

· Please pray for the discernment of Israeli officials so that none fall for any empty promises coming from Hamas. In Islam, lying to the infidel is perfectly acceptable and such promises never have to be kept. Pray for UN Sec. Gen. Ban so that he has a biblical view of the situation. Enough attacks on Israel, whether actual munitions or verbal!

· "So the nations shall fear the name of the Lord. And the kings of the earth Your glory. For the Lord shall build up Zion." (Psalm 102:15, 16a)

The Middle East in Focus

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

"Through God we will do valiantly, For it is He who shall tread down our enemies." (Psalm 108:13)

1. Dozens Killed As Israel Hits U.N. School; Christians Concerned - Worthy News

At least 40 people were killed and over 50 injured when the Israeli Air Force struck a United Nations-run school in the Gaza Strip in what it said was a response to repeated mortar and rocket attacks from militants of the Hamas group.

CHPP Daily Brief - January 6, 2008

In This Issue
· The Daily Brief
· The Middle East in Focus
· The White House in Transition
· Statement Issued by the Embassy of Israel
· Statement Issued by the White House

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

The Daily Brief Tuesday, January 6, 2009

The Daily Brief

1. U.S. Debt: "A Ticking Time Bomb" - Worthy News

The United States faces a financial "time bomb" as its national debt is to jump by $2 trillion this year, and United States President-elect Barack Obama, and congressional Democrats consider a massive spending package, economists have warned. The U.S. National Debt already stands at nearly $10.7 trillion, of which $3 trillion is held by foreign investors with China ($652.9 billion) and Japan ($585.5 billion) being the top two creditors, according to official estimates.

· Heavenly Father, You warned us that if we did not obey You and follow your laws, our enemies would be our masters. Lord, we ask for your mercy. We repent for our sins and the sins of our nation.

· "But if you do not obey Me, and do not observe all these commandments. . . I will set My face against you, and you shall be defeated by your enemies. Those who hate you shall reign over you, and you shall flee when no one pursues you."

2. Construction Spending Falls Less Than Expected - AP

Construction spending fell less than expected in November, as record activity on nonresidential projects helped offset another steep decline in housing. The outlook, however, is for significant weakness as the worst recession in at least a quarter-century takes its toll on construction. The prolonged weakness in housing, where the current economic troubles began, is showing no signs of bottoming out. Sales of both new and existing homes along with home prices are continuing to plunge, while rising foreclosures are dumping more unsold homes on the already glutted market.

· Lord, we submit to Your correction. Forgive our nation for apathy and serving money over You and Your laws. Help us to turn back to You, Lord.

· Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord. (Acts 3:19)

3. Citgo Suspends Low-Income Heating Oil Program - AP

Citgo has suspended its free heating oil program for low-income residents, Citizens Energy Chairman Joseph Kennedy, announced Monday. Kennedy urged those who have been helped by the program to write Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez to share their stories. Kennedy said that Citizens Energy will continue to run heating assistance programs for now.

· Lord, as we go into this economic crisis, let us not forget what true religion is - to care for the orphan and the widow. Let there be provision for the poor, sick, and homeless at this time.

· Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink . . . And the King will say to them, 'Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.' (Matthew 25:37, 40)

4. SEC Watchdog to Be Questioned About Madoff Scandal - AP

The SEC chairman, Christopher Cox, has said credible and specific allegations regarding Madoff's wrongdoing -- going back to at least 1999 -- were repeatedly brought to the attention of SEC staff. Cox said he was concerned by the apparent multiple failures to thoroughly investigate the allegations or at any point to seek formal authority from the commission to pursue them.

· Heavenly Father, our nation is full of corrupt leaders and crooked dealings. We pray these people and their crooked ways will be exposed and dealt with quickly. We pray for justice for those hurt in these wrongdoings.

· Do not lie in wait, wicked man, against the dwelling of the righteous; do not plunder his resting place; For a righteous man may fall seven times and rise again, but the wicked shall fall by calamity. (Proverbs 24:15,16)

5. Automaker Sales Continue Dismal Slide - CBS News

Chrysler Sales Drop 53% In December; Ford, Toyota, Honda Not Much Better Amid U.S. Economic Angst. And it wasn't just gas guzzling models that took a hit either. Sales of Toyota's hybrid Prius fell 45 percent in December. Enterprise, the country's largest rental car company, is cutting its new car purchases by almost half this year - that's nearly 400,000 vehicles - part of the reduction in fleet sales Chrysler complained about.So all the car makers are getting desperate, Mason reports. Hyundai is offering to buy back cars from customers if they lose their jobs.

· Lord, this nation has lost confidence in its economy and its leaders. Give us righteous leaders that will make godly decisions and honor you when they make laws. Replace corrupt leaders quickly.

· Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, The people He has chosen as His own inheritance. (Psalms 33:12)

6. Some US Cities Eliminate Criminal-History Question - AP

Hoping to prevent convicts from being shut out of the work force, some major U.S. cities are eliminating questions from their job applications that ask whether prospective employees have ever been convicted of a crime. "There were times I was tempted to go back to my old way of making money," Tucker said. "I fell off the wagon a few times. You get stuck with this decision of telling the truth and possibly never being called or lying to get the job and losing it later."

· Lord, we pray for wisdom on these decisions about eliminating criminal history of people. We pray for discernment and protection for the hiring procedures of companies.

· Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good, that he may have something to give him who has need. (Ephesians 4:28)

7. Two U.S. Senate seats disputed - CBS News

A. Coleman Vows To Fight On

Norm Coleman is not giving up his Senate seat without a fight. The incumbent Minnesota Republican, who lost his recount battle against Democrat Al Franken by 225 votes, said he does not accept the result and vowed to take the matter to the courts at a news conference today. He released a statement at the news conference saying "not every valid vote has been counted and some have been counted twice."

B. Secretary Of The Senate Explains Why Burris Wasn"t Seated

The office of the Secretary of the Senate, Nancy Erickson, released a statement this afternoon explaining why she refused to seat Roland Burris, who came to Washington hoping to replace Barack Obama as the junior senator from Illinois for the 111th Congress. According to her office, Erickson refused to seat Burris, who was appointed to the seat by embattled Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich, because he lacked the necessary signature of the Illinois Secretary of State, Jesse White, and the state seal of Illinois.

· Father, we pray over these disputes in the Senate. We pray our government will be established in righteousness. We pray all those involved will be surrounded with many wise and righteous counsellors who love peace. We ask that these two candidates who have not been seated would yield to the decisions of the courts and the Senate leadership as these disputed matters are resolved.

· For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another. (Ps 75:6,7)

The Middle East in Focus

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

"Through God we will do valiantly, For it is He who shall tread down our enemies." (Psalm 108:13)

1. Hamas Fighting With Weapons From Israel - Worthy News

As Israel continued to fight Hamas in Gaza City, Tuesday, January 6, Israeli soldiers faced the inconvenient truth that weapons used by the militant group were indirectly supplied by Israel itself, the United States, Egypt and other countries.

2. Dozens Killed In Israeli Strike - Worthy News

At least 40 people were killed in an Israeli attack at a United Nations-run school in the Gaza Strip, U.N. and Palestinian officials said Tuesday, January 6.

3. Arabs Protest Israeli Offensive Worldwide - Worthy News

As Israel's offensive against militants of the Hamas group in the Gaza Strip continued Tuesday, January 6, around the world Arabic leaders, Palestinians and their supporters continued to pressure the Jewish state to end the operation.

The White House in Transition

1. Leon Panetta Tapped to Head CIA - AP

Leon Panetta, who was chief of staff under former President Bill Clinton, is Barack Obama's pick to head the CIA, sources confirm to FOX News.

· A number of congressional leaders are not comfortable with this nomination, due to Mr. Panetta's lack of experience in the intelligence field. Pray that Congress be given great wisdom as they weigh whether to approve this nominee, later this month.

· "Ask, and ye shall receive . . ." (Luke 11:9)

2. Richardson Withdraws Bid To Be Commerce Secretary - AP

Obama Accepts DecisionNew Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson has withdrawn his nomination to be President-elect Barack Obama's Commerce secretary amid a grand jury investigation. Obama said in a statement Sunday that he accepted Richardson's withdrawal "with deep regret" but that the governor was putting the nation first to avoid any delay in filling the Cabinet post.

· Lift up the President-Elect, asking that he be given wisdom as he seeks to fill this key cabinet position.

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

3. Source: Harvard Dean is Front-Runner for Solicitor General - Fox News

Harvard Law School Dean Elena Kagan could become Obama's solicitor general, who represents the United States before the Supreme Court. Kagan has never argued a Supreme Court case but clerked for Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, practiced at a Washington law firm and worked on the University of Chicago Law School faculty at the same time as Obama during the 1990s. Obama is a graduate of Harvard Law School, where Kagan has won praise for building consensus and record fundraising.

The United States is involved in about two-thirds of all cases the Supreme Court decides on, according to the Justice Department. The solicitor general's office also determines whether the government should appeal lower court case decisions or intervene in appellate court case.

· Again, offer earnest prayers of intercession for the President-elect as he weighs this decision. Pray that the one chosen will be one who will uphold the Constitution of the United States, even as the new president must swear to do on January 20th.

· ". . . for the eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous, and his ears attend to their prayer." (1 Peter 3:12)

4. Atheist Group Files Lawsuit Against Prayer at Presidential Inauguration - Fox News

The head of an atheist group that has filed a lawsuit against prayer at Barack Obama's presidential inauguration says the government is picking a winner between "believers" and "those who don't believe" and subjecting atheists and agnostics to someone else's religious beliefs.

· Pray down this complaint, for this nation is founded on Christian beliefs. Pray that the lawsuit does not reach the Supreme Court and that no one pays attention. All the worms seem to be coming out of the woodwork. Pray for salvation in Jesus Christ for these atheists.

· "The wicked plots against the just, and gnashes his teeth at him. The Lord laughs at him, for He sees that his day is coming." (Psalm 7:12,13a)

Statement Issued by the Embassy of Israel

EMBASSY OF ISRAELWashington, D.C.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009

The following is an on-the-record statement from Jonathan Peled, Spokesman for the Embassy of Israel:

Initial inquiries by Israeli forces operating in the area indicate that a number of mortar shells were fired at IDF forces from within the Jabalya school. Israeli forces had no knowledge of those present at the site; however, it is clear that it was not operating as a school.

In response to incoming enemy fire, Israeli forces returned mortar fire to the source. Israel later identified two of the casualties at the site as Imad and Hassan Abu Askhar, who served as heads of the Hamas mortar units in Gaza. Israel regrets the loss of any innocent civilian lives.

Hamas has once again cynically chosen to use civilian sites from which to operate, thus endangering the safety of innocent civilians. This is not the first time that Hamas has fired mortars and rockets from schools, which deliberately uses civilians as human shields in their acts of terror. This was proven in the recent past with footage from an unmanned plane showing rockets and mortars being fired from the yard of an UNRWA school (click here for video).

· Father God, tonight we ask Your mercy for the nation of Israel. We thank You, Lord, that the Israelis are now fighting the Hamas terrorists that have endangered them for many, many years. We ask that the media all over the world report the facts in this case in truth, and that the people of the nations would take heed. In Your timing, we ask for peace to be restored to their land. In Your Name we pray, amen.

· "The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the Lord." (Proverbs 212:31)

On Capitol Hill This Week - January 6, 2008

In This Issue
· On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVI, No. 1
· NEWS LINKS FOR ISRAEL
· This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
· Who We Are

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

On Capitol Hill This WeekVolume XVI, Number 1

* * * SPECIAL EDITION: SWEARING IN OF THE 111TH SESSION OF CONGRESS * * *

January 5 - 9, 2009

"Lord, Your word is forever; it is firmly fixed in heaven. Your faithfulness is for all generations; You established the earth and it stands firm." (Psalm 119:89-90)

On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVI, No. 1

111TH SESSION OF U.S. CONGRESS WILL BE SWORN IN TOMORROW
SPECIAL PRAYER REQUEST FOR NEW MEMBERS OF CONGRESS
CONSERVATIVE CANDIDATES DOMINATE HOUSE GOP LEADERSHIP TEAM
FRANKEN WINS MINNESOTA SENATE RACE; LAWSUIT LOOMS
REID, MCCONNELL TO MEET ON BURRIS APPOINTMENT
NEXT FEDERAL BAILOUT MAY GO TO STATES
HOUSE PLANS TO FAST-TRACK OBAMA PLAN
ANOTHER LOOK AT THAT STIMULUS PACKAGE
CONGRESS TO REPORT ELECTORAL COLLEGE RESULTS ON THURSDAY
PRESIDENT BUSH SIGNS TRAFFICKING VICTIMS PROTECTION ACT
ANTI-ISRAEL HACKERS WREAK HAVOC WITH ISRAELI WEBSITES
U.S. BLOCKS U.N. STATEMENT CALLING FOR GAZA CEASE-FIRE

1. 111TH SESSION OF U.S. CONGRESS WILL BE SWORN IN TOMORROW

At 12:00 p.m. noon, tomorrow (Tuesday, January 6, 2009) the 111th Session of the United States Congress will be sworn in, in both the House and in the Senate. Following 12 years under Republican control, the Democratic Party becomes the majority in both houses, regaining control of the House for the first time since 1994 and the Senate for the first time since 2002.The House now has 435 members, including 236 Democrats and 198 Republicans. The Senate retains its 100 members, now including 48 Democrats, 49 Republicans and 2 Independents. In the Senate, the Governors of Illinois, Delaware, New York, and Colorado respectively will appoint those who will fill the seats of President-elect Barack Obama, Vice President-elect Joe Biden, Secretary of State- Nominee Hillary Clinton, and Secretary of the Interior- Nominee Ken Salazar.For a listing of current members of the House of Representatives, go here. For a listing of the current membership of the U.S. Senate, go here. (CHPP)

· Pray for . . . all in authority. Ask God to grant them wisdom to act with integrity. Ask that each member be graced with the fear of the Lord, bringing wisdom.

· "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding." (Psalm 11:10)

2. SPECIAL PRAYER REQUEST FOR NEW MEMBERS OF CONGRESS

Tonight, we would invite you to go to this website from Wikipedia, for a complete listing of the names of all new members of the House and the Senate. Any new member has much to learn when he comes to Capitol Hill; let's give each one the prayer support he or she will need to do the job they have been called to do, with decency, integrity, and skill. (CHPP)

· Ask our Lord to grace each new member of the House and the Senate with His wisdom, anointing, and skill to be able to serve our people with excellence in this session of Congress. Remember to pray for "all in authority," for many have asked for and are depending upon our prayers!

· "I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth." (I Tim. 2:1-4)

3. CONSERVATIVE CANDIDATES DOMINATE HOUSE GOP LEADERSHIP TEAM

House Republicans held their leadership elections for the 111th Congress today, and I'm pleased to report that most members of the new GOP leadership team are solid conservatives supported by the Campaign for Working Families. Rep. John Boehner of Ohio will continue in his role as the House Republican Leader. Rep. Eric Cantor of Virginia has been elected as the House Republican Whip. Rep. Mike Pence, a long time friend, will assume the post of Conference Chairman. Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers will be Conference Vice- Chairman and Rep. John Carter will be the Conference Secretary. These men and women certainly have their work cut out for them as they try to hold back the worst of the liberal agenda in the House, but I look forward to working with them in defense of faith, family and freedom. (Gary Bauer; Campaign for Working Families)

· Ask our Lord to strengthen all who are working to uphold the Biblical, pro-life agenda on Capitol Hill. These members can actually be found in both parties, and our Lord knows them all. Praise Him!

· "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people." (Proverbs 14:34)

4. FRANKEN WINS MINNESOTA SENATE RACE; LAWSUIT LOOMSA

Minnesota board has certified election results showing Democrat Al Franken has won the U.S. Senate recount -- by 225 votes. But that doesn't mean the former Saturday Night Live comedian's race against his Republican opponent, incumbent Sen. Norm Coleman, is over. While FOX News has learned that Senate Democratic leaders will try to seat Franken on Tuesday, a legal challenge probably will keep the race in limbo. The Canvassing Board's declaration started a seven- day clock for Coleman to file a lawsuit protesting the result. His attorney Tony Trimble said the challenge will be filed within 24 hours. The challenge will keep Franken from getting the election certificate he needs to take the seat in Washington. "This process isn't at an end," Trimble said. "It is now just at the beginning." Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell also said he doesn't expect an election certificate to be issued until the litigation is over. Coleman's lawyers have argued that some ballots were mishandled and others were wrongly excluded from the recount. Lead attorney Fritz Knaak said a lawsuit was inevitable after the Minnesota Supreme Court ruled against Coleman earlier on Monday. A lawsuit would extend the fight over the seat for months. But Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid said there's no way Coleman can catch up to Franken. "There comes a time when you have to acknowledge that the race is over," Reid said. "The race in Minnesota is over."

· It's not over 'til it's over. Even as Mr. Franken is seated tomorrow in the Senate, continue to lift up this case as it goes to court, for a judicious and true verdict. Amen.

· "The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity." (Proverbs 11:3)

5. REID, MCCONNELL TO MEET ON BURRIS APPOINTMENT

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid plans to meet with the chamber's top Republican to determine a bipartisan solution of the Senate appointee Roland Burris from Illinois. Burris is the Democrat picked by Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich to take Barack Obama's seat. The governor has been accused by federal authorities of offering to sell the appointment to the highest bidder. Reid says he will talk to Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell on Monday in hopes of coming to a bipartisan position on Burris. The chamber swears in new senators on Tuesday. (NBC Meet the Press)

· The media is reporting that Senator Reid has no legal ground on which to stand to prevent the seating of Roland Burris as the temporary senator from Illinois. One wonders what "hitch" is being hidden by Reid's denial of Burris. Please pray for a spirit of truth and honesty to embrace Sen. Reid (D - NV). Pray for Congress.

· "For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the Word of the Lord, He has rejected you from being king." (1 Samuel 19:23)

6. NEXT FEDERAL BAILOUT MAY GO TO STATES DEMOCRATIC GOVERNORS SEEK $1 TRILLION

Governors from Wisconsin, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York and Ohio are seeking funds to deal with unprecedented state budget shortfalls in 41 states and Washington, D.C. After bailing out Wall Street and the U.S. auto industry amid warnings of a deep recession, Uncle Sam now is being asked to chip in $1 trillion over two years for states facing severe budget shortfalls. Five Democratic governors are pleading the states' case to Barack Obama, seeking a bailout package that would include $250 billion for education and $150 billion in middle class tax cuts. The governors said they had presented their plan to Obama's transition team as well as congressional leaders, arguing that higher level of federal aid is needed to deal with unprecedented state budget shortfalls in 41 states and Washington, D.C., that the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities pegged at $42 billion for the current fiscal year alone.And Obama seems willing to provide help once he takes office as president Jan. 20, though the scope is uncertain. Obama's aides and congressional leaders have been talking about a package roughly half the size of the two-year plan proposed Friday by the governors from Wisconsin, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York and Ohio.

· Continue to pray for the healing of the American states and for their economies. Pray the corruption within state politics is eliminated and cleansing can be achieved by the Holy Spirit. The states are to support the federal government, not the other way round. Pray that churchgoers heed the Word of the Lord, understanding that it is God who is to be trusted, not the works of governments.

· "Now consider this, you who forget God, Lest I tear you to pieces and there be none to deliver. Whoever offers praise glorifies Me And to him who orders his conduct aright I will show the salvation of God." (Psalm 50:22,23)

7. HOUSE PLANS TO FAST-TRACK OBAMA PLAN

President-elect Barack Obama's record-setting stimulus plan - the biggest special spending bill in history - is getting such astonishingly quick treatment from House Democrats that officials say it could go from draft to final passage in one week. The bill has no text or details yet, but it does have a name: Obama revealed Saturday in his YouTube/radio address that it will be called the "American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan." When asked about the title, Frank Luntz, a Republican consultant who wrote a treatise on political linguistics called "Words That Work," told Politico: "Obama's team are the best linguists I've ever seen. Republicans aren't in his league right now."

The 111th Congress begins Tuesday with the swearing-in of new members. The stimulus plan - with a price tag of up to $850 billion - is likely to be ready for a vote the following week, officials said. No draft or outline or outline was circulating this weekend, but House Democratic officials said they hope to have one by early next week. "We are hoping for a House vote on Week 2 (week of Jan. 12)," a House official said. "It could slip if we decide to hold regular appropriations hearings. But I think a vote is likely the week of Jan. 12."

Republicans are suggesting that's too hasty. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) issued a statement Friday headlined, "Protect the Taxpayer Against the Rush to Spend Their Money." And House Minority Leader John Boehner (R-Ohio) said in a statement that he was concerned the legislation would get "little debate or public scrutiny." "Congress should have public hearings in the appropriate committees," Boehner said. (Read more.)

· Of course, the simple solution to the economic crisis is repentance on the part of Americans, for as most of us have learned, no one can outgive the Lord. Pray for those politicians who understand the Word of the Lord and can withstand the probable withering attacks of those who follow only the plans and strategies of men. Man can create nothing; God is able to heal our land.

· For America and all involved - "I delight to do Your will, O my God, and Your law is within my heart." (Psalm 40:8)

8. ANOTHER LOOK AT THAT STIMULUS PACKAGE

When Congress convenes tomorrow after its long winter's nap, plenty of work awaits them. The President-elect, who touched down in Washington this weekend, is ready to open the New Year with an economic bang. Topping Obama's to-do list is a near- $1 trillion stimulus plan, which, in part, aims to bail out states from their budget shortfalls by throwing money at local infrastructure and education. The plan, a subject of today's meeting between the 44th President and Democratic leaders, has received mixed reviews from the very governors the proposal seeks to help. Some leaders seem eager to accept Uncle Sam's charity. Others, like Govs. Rick Perry (R-Texas) and Mark Sanford (R-S.C.), believe Obama's stimulus will do more harm to the economy than good. Among other things, Capitol Hill doesn't have the money to cover the roughly $1 trillion expense. Instead, leaders would be forced to grow the national debt, something it simply cannot afford to do after borrowing its way out of the Wall Street crisis. Then, of course, there's the matter of personal responsibility. Despite the recession, state leaders dug themselves into this financial hole by reckless spending.

Today, the President-elect is hoping to attract Republican support by sweetening the deal with $300 billion in tax cuts. At this point, we don't know how the tax cuts will be presented--whether in a separate House bill or as a portion of the stimulus package. The details have not been released, and the lack of transparency speaks volumes. To call for such colossal spending without detailing what our tax dollars are funding is completely irresponsible. FRC will forcefully advocate that families are represented in the proposed tax cuts. President Bush did an admirable job promoting pro-family tax policies through his per child tax credit and marriage penalty relief. Easing Americans out of this crisis should include making the Bush tax cuts permanent. (Family Research Council)

· Regarding all aspects of an economic stimulus package: pray that all aspects of the Bush administration that were successful not be abandoned to new, untested methods -- now costing in the billions of dollars. Pray!

· "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." (James 1:5)

9. CONGRESS TO REPORT ELECTORAL COLLEGE RESULTS ON THURSDAY

In years past, the report of the Electoral College was always read to the Congress on the date it convened its new session. According to a new law passed last October, this year, Congress will have to wait for two days -- from Tuesday, January 6 to Thursday, January 8 - to receive that report. (That law, Public Law 100-430, was introduced by Michael A. Arcuri [D-NY] and became law on October 15, 2008.)

As of this writing, the National Archives and Records Administration has not yet posted the full count on its website, although they do report by phone that all ballots have been received in their office.

· Pray that there will be NO CONFUSION when this count is announced on Thursday, for the official name of the next President-Elect of the United States of America will determine the course of our history for at least the next four years. Pray!

· "Let all things be done decently and in order." (I Corinthians 14:40)

10. PRESIDENT BUSH SIGNS TRAFFICKING VICTIMS PROTECTION ACT

President George W. Bush signed H.R. 7311, the William Wilberforce Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act, on Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2008, in the Oval Office of the White House. Named for English abolitionist William Wilberforce, who led the Parliamentary movement against the British slave trade in the early 19th century, this bill authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 2008 through 2011 for the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000, enhancing measures to combat trafficking in persons.

· Offer praise for the passage of this wonderful bill, and for the president's signing it into law. The victims of global trafficking now have a strong advocate: the government of the United States of America, who will stand with them against their perpetrators. Praise God!

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

11. ANTI-ISRAEL HACKERS WREAK HAVOC WITH ISRAELI WEBSITES

Pro-Hamas hackers rerouted Ynet English and Bank Discount's surfers to a hostile Web page Friday that included messages against Israel and the US, along with a propaganda song in Arabic. The hackers took over an Israeli domain registration server called DomainTheNet for a couple of hours and managed to divert surfers to an alternative server in Japan where the hostile Web page was planted. The hackers, who call themselves Team Evil and are based in Morocco, planted messages on the hostile Web page comparing the Israeli actions in Gaza and the American operation in Iraq to the Holocaust. At the bottom of the page, the hackers described Israel as a "malignant tumor," saying its "demise" would bring peace to all people.

According to Ynet, its English Web site was not hacked but rather the server that hosts their site, as well as those of many other Israeli sites. Yoav Keren, CEO of DomainTheNet Technologies, told Ynet in response that the hackers were able to track passwords used by the on-line customer service system and to access the domain management system, posing as system administrators authorized to change Internet protocol addresses. Keren added that DomainTheNet's staff spotted the security breach, blocked it and thwarted further attempts by Team Evil to make any further changes. (Jerusalem Post)

· Pray confusion into all hackers who would violate the sanctity of websites to spread propaganda about Islam, murder, and hatred.. Ask the Lord to lead these hackers down trails that lead to Jesus Christ and away from the god of violence, murder, and sacrifice of children. Pray a mantle of protection over the news coming from Israel so that we know how to pray and how to stand with Israel.

· "Keep me. O Lord, from the hands of the wicked; Preserve me from violent men, Who have purposed to make my steps stumble." (Psalm 120:4)

· In addition to the report above, we have noticed that a significant number of intercessors -- particularly those that have a heart to pray for Israel -- are encountering computer problems. Let's all be very careful from here on out to be SURE that we have installed a credible antivirus program, as well as at least one firewall on our system. We DO have enemies out there, who would take delight in crippling our communication networks, for the enemy is terrified of our prayers!

· We cover each other, and our equipment, with the Blood of the Lamb. Thank you, Lord.

"No weapon forged against you shall prosper." (Isaiah 54:17a)

12. U.S. BLOCKS U.N. STATEMENT CALLING FOR GAZA CEASE-FIRE

The United States late Saturday blocked approval of a U.N. Security Council statement calling for an immediate cease-fire between Israel and Gaza's Hamas rulers, diplomats said. French U.N. Ambassador Jean-Maurice Ripert, the council president, said the 15 council members could not agree on a statement in closed discussions held after Israel launched a ground invasion into the Gaza Strip on Saturday. But he said there were "strong convergences" among the members to express concern about the deteriorating situation in Gaza and the need for "an immediate, permanent and fully respected cease-fire."Several council members, speaking on condition of anonymity because negotiations were closed, also said the U.S. was responsible for the council's failure to issue a statement. The U.S., Israel's closest ally, has designated Hamas a terrorist organization. U.S. deputy ambassador Alejandro Wolff said the United States saw no prospect of Hamas abiding by last week's council call for an immediate end to the violence. Therefore, he said, a new statement "would not be adhered to and would have no underpinning for success, (and) would not do credit to the council."

Libya, the only Arab nation on the council, called the emergency meeting after Israel sent tanks and infantry across the border into Gaza on the eighth day of its offensive against Hamas militants. The ground attack followed a week of air strikes, which Hamas, whose charter calls for the destruction of Israel, responded to with salvos of rocket fired into southern Israel. Arab nations demanded that the council adopt a statement calling for an immediate cease-fire and expressing "serious concern at the escalation of violence and the deterioration of the situation in Gaza and southern Israel," a view echoed by Secretary- General Ban Ki-moon.A State Department official said the U.S. is working toward a cease-fire but provided no details on how this can be accomplished because the U.S. does not talk to Hamas. Spokesman Sean McCormack said a cease-fire is needed that will not allow Hamas to continue firing rockets into Israel. McCormack said "it's obvious the cease-fire should take place as soon as possible," but it has to be sustainable and cannot allow Hamas to continue to launch rockets out of Gaza. (AP)

· Offer praise that this administration is standing with Israel, in the face of world opinion, as she fights the terrorists who are on her own land. Praise God!

· "I will bless those who bless thee, and I will curse those who curse thee." (Gen. 12:3)

NEWS LINKS FOR ISRAEL

In this time of war, it is important to keep up with the news out of Israel, which is now changing hour by hour. We encourage our readers to visit the sites below for current information in Israel, and to pray as our Lord would direct . . .

In addition, many of these news sources have a daily e-mail update you can sign up for.

1. DEBKAfile www.debka.com
2. Israel National News www.israelnationalnews.com
3. Jerusalem Newswirewww.jnewswire.com
4. Jerusalem Post www.jpost.com
5. Jerusalem Watchman www.stangoodenough.com
6. WorldNetDailywww.worldnetdaily.com
7. World Watch Daily -- Koenig's International Newshttp://watch.org
8. Worthy Newswww.worthynews.com
9. YouTube -- Note: IDF has posted many videos on YouTube. Search "IDF"www.youtube.com

This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . . COUNSELOR (Yo-ayts)

"For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called . . . Counselor . . ." (Isaiah 9:6 NIV)

Dear Father,Your counsel rules over all earthly machinations. You are Sovereign, and I am so thankful that I can come to You for the best counsel. Thank You for this wisdom from above -- from You. Help me to have ears to hear, and a heart ready to accept. I thank You for being the Best Counselor. Amen.

(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)