AND THE THIRD ANGEL FOLLOWED THEM, SAYING WITH A LOUD VOICE, IF ANY MAN WORSHIP THE BEAST AND HIS IMAGE, AND RECEIVE HIS MARK IN HIS FOREHEAD, OR IN HIS HAND.
*** REVELATION 14:9
1And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy. 2And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority.
3And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast.
4And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast: and they worshipped the beast, saying, Who is like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him?
5And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months.
6And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven.
7And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.
8And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.
9If any man have an ear, let him hear.
10He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity: he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints.
11And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon.
12And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.
13And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men,
14And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live.
15And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed.
16And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads:
17And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.
18Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred threescore and six.
MANILA, Philippines - The Bureau of Food and Drugs is monitoring markets and stores for “Red Bull" energy drink after the agency announced the product could be tainted with cocaine.
BFAD Director Leticia Gutierrez said Friday that inspection teams are taking samples of the bottled drink from stores.
"Yung aming inspector pina-market monitoring namin. Nagpakuha kami ng samples ... tuloy ang market monitoring to find out kung may papasok sa merkado galing Austria. Right now ang nakita ng aming inspector ang gawa sa Thailand," Gutierrez said in an interview on dwIZ radio.
[We sent inspectors to conduct market monitoring. We took samples to find out if supply from Austria got into the Philippines. So far we have found the stocks coming from Thailand.]
But she said the BFAD has yet to issue an order to retailers to pull out Red Bull products from their shelves while the tests are ongoing.
Gutierrez said they have sent some samples to the BFAD laboratory for examination, including those imported from Thailand.
On Thursday, government advised the public to temporarily refrain from drinking Red Bull after some of its products in Austria tested positive for cocaine, an addictive substance that stimulates the nervous system.
For public safety and assurance, we had asked the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency to check for cocaine content in the product, Gutierrez said, adding that in a few days the BFAD would know the results. - GMANews.TV
Today, President Obama delivered a conciliatory (apologetic) speech before a packed auditorium in Cairo. It seems that the president wants to reinvent the American Image abroad; But, at what cost? By apologizing about everything that the U.S. has done prior to him becoming president? No torturing on my watch.. Is he the president of the world, or was he just elected (by the U.S. voters) to represent the United States?
Well, this past week has been one big hype-fest. Starting with Nancy Reagan visiting the White House, and observing President Obama signing legislation; When she commented: "Oh, you're a lefty".Also, coinciding this week was the unveiling of a 7 foot bronze statue of Ronald Reagan.
In North Korea there is an issue with two "U.S. reporters" that are being detained against their will. The journalists, Laura Ling and Euna Lee have been in custody for 2 1/2 months.
Last month, Iran released a "U.S. reporter" Roxana Saberi who served four months for spying; She was finally released because of the international outcry over her case.
These are just a few of the recent incidents that I believe are the consequences of President Obama's persistent blame game. There must be a method to his madness. But, where does it end? And when does the logical phase begin? So far it's been: America's bad; I'm good! Speaking of blame; Can you blame North Korea for defying the U.S. and the international community with it's several nuclear tests, or rocket launches? Do they see a friend, or a foe in Obama? Meanwhile, Iran continues it's path to achieve nuclear capability. Will Obama hinder (impede) them from reaching their goal? Not, really!
To top off the week's events there is an ongoing propaganda campaign called "Inside the Obama White House" with Brian Williams on NBC. They have stretched that charade for several days: Tuesday and Wednesday prime-time shows; Plus, during the evening news vignettes about the same repetitive story. The Portuguese Water Dog aka "BHO" playing for the camera, etc. Is this news? Or, is this malarkey and monkey shines; Wag the dog, dog and pony show, galore?
Then there's the latest (long over-due, what timing?) audio-video threats from the Al-Qaeda nemesis and Company: Pakistan, blah, blase, blah! OsamaBin Laden defaming Obama - Biden...
I am honored to be in the timeless city of Cairo, and to be hosted by two remarkable institutions. For over a thousand years, Al-Azhar has stood as a beacon of Islamic learning, and for over a century, Cairo University has been a source of Egypt's advancement. Together, you represent the harmony between tradition and progress. I am grateful for your hospitality, and the hospitality of the people of Egypt. I am also proud to carry with me the goodwill of the American people, and a greeting of peace from Muslim communities in my country: assalaamu alaykum.
We meet at a time of tension between the United States and Muslims around the world - tension rooted in historical forces that go beyond any current policy debate. The relationship between Islam and the West includes centuries of co-existence and cooperation, but also conflict and religious wars. More recently, tension has been fed by colonialism that denied rights and opportunities to many Muslims, and a Cold War in which Muslim-majority countries were too often treated as proxies without regard to their own aspirations. Moreover, the sweeping change brought by modernity and globalization led many Muslims to view the West as hostile to the traditions of Islam.
Violent extremists have exploited these tensions in a small but potent minority of Muslims. The attacks of September 11th, 2001 and the continued efforts of these extremists to engage in violence against civilians has led some in my country to view Islam as inevitably hostile not only to America and Western countries, but also to human rights. This has bred more fear and mistrust.
So long as our relationship is defined by our differences, we will empower those who sow hatred rather than peace, and who promote conflict rather than the cooperation that can help all of our people achieve justice and prosperity. This cycle of suspicion and discord must end.
I have come here to seek a new beginning between the United States and Muslims around the world; one based upon mutual interest and mutual respect; and one based upon the truth that America and Islam are not exclusive, and need not be in competition. Instead, they overlap, and share common principles - principles of justice and progress; tolerance and the dignity of all human beings.
I do so recognizing that change cannot happen overnight. No single speech can eradicate years of mistrust, nor can I answer in the time that I have all the complex questions that brought us to this point. But I am convinced that in order to move forward, we must say openly the things we hold in our hearts, and that too often are said only behind closed doors. There must be a sustained effort to listen to each other; to learn from each other; to respect one another; and to seek common ground. As the Holy Koran tells us, "Be conscious of God and speak always the truth." That is what I will try to do - to speak the truth as best I can, humbled by the task before us, and firm in my belief that the interests we share as human beings are far more powerful than the forces that drive us apart.
Part of this conviction is rooted in my own experience. I am a Christian, but my father came from a Kenyan family that includes generations of Muslims. As a boy, I spent several years in Indonesia and heard the call of the azaan at the break of dawn and the fall of dusk. As a young man, I worked in Chicago communities where many found dignity and peace in their Muslim faith.
As a student of history, I also know civilization's debt to Islam. It was Islam - at places like Al-Azhar University - that carried the light of learning through so many centuries, paving the way for Europe's Renaissance and Enlightenment. It was innovation in Muslim communities that developed the order of algebra; our magnetic compass and tools of navigation; our mastery of pens and printing; our understanding of how disease spreads and how it can be healed. Islamic culture has given us majestic arches and soaring spires; timeless poetry and cherished music; elegant calligraphy and places of peaceful contemplation. And throughout history, Islam has demonstrated through words and deeds the possibilities of religious tolerance and racial equality.
I know, too, that Islam has always been a part of America's story. The first nation to recognize my country was Morocco. In signing the Treaty of Tripoli in 1796, our second President John Adams wrote, "The United States has in itself no character of enmity against the laws, religion or tranquility of Muslims." And since our founding, American Muslims have enriched the United States. They have fought in our wars, served in government, stood for civil rights, started businesses, taught at our Universities, excelled in our sports arenas, won Nobel Prizes, built our tallest building, and lit the Olympic Torch. And when the first Muslim-American was recently elected to Congress, he took the oath to defend our Constitution using the same Holy Koran that one of our Founding Fathers - Thomas Jefferson - kept in his personal library.
So I have known Islam on three continents before coming to the region where it was first revealed. That experience guides my conviction that partnership between America and Islam must be based on what Islam is, not what it isn't. And I consider it part of my responsibility as President of the United States to fight against negative stereotypes of Islam wherever they appear.
But that same principle must apply to Muslim perceptions of America. Just as Muslims do not fit a crude stereotype, America is not the crude stereotype of a self-interested empire. The United States has been one of the greatest sources of progress that the world has ever known. We were born out of revolution against an empire. We were founded upon the ideal that all are created equal, and we have shed blood and struggled for centuries to give meaning to those words - within our borders, and around the world. We are shaped by every culture, drawn from every end of the Earth, and dedicated to a simple concept: E pluribus unum: "Out of many, one."
Much has been made of the fact that an African-American with the name Barack Hussein Obama could be elected President. But my personal story is not so unique. The dream of opportunity for all people has not come true for everyone in America, but its promise exists for all who come to our shores - that includes nearly seven million American Muslims in our country today who enjoy incomes and education that are higher than average.
Moreover, freedom in America is indivisible from the freedom to practice one's religion. That is why there is a mosque in every state of our union, and over 1,200 mosques within our borders. That is why the U.S. government has gone to court to protect the right of women and girls to wear the hijab, and to punish those who would deny it.
So let there be no doubt: Islam is a part of America. And I believe that America holds within her the truth that regardless of race, religion, or station in life, all of us share common aspirations - to live in peace and security; to get an education and to work with dignity; to love our families, our communities, and our God. These things we share. This is the hope of all humanity.
Of course, recognizing our common humanity is only the beginning of our task. Words alone cannot meet the needs of our people. These needs will be met only if we act boldly in the years ahead; and if we understand that the challenges we face are shared, and our failure to meet them will hurt us all.
For we have learned from recent experience that when a financial system weakens in one country, prosperity is hurt everywhere. When a new flu infects one human being, all are at risk. When one nation pursues a nuclear weapon, the risk of nuclear attack rises for all nations. When violent extremists operate in one stretch of mountains, people are endangered across an ocean. And when innocents in Bosnia and Darfur are slaughtered, that is a stain on our collective conscience. That is what it means to share this world in the 21st century. That is the responsibility we have to one another as human beings.
This is a difficult responsibility to embrace. For human history has often been a record of nations and tribes subjugating one another to serve their own interests. Yet in this new age, such attitudes are self-defeating. Given our interdependence, any world order that elevates one nation or group of people over another will inevitably fail. So whatever we think of the past, we must not be prisoners of it. Our problems must be dealt with through partnership; progress must be shared.
That does not mean we should ignore sources of tension. Indeed, it suggests the opposite: we must face these tensions squarely. And so in that spirit, let me speak as clearly and plainly as I can about some specific issues that I believe we must finally confront together.
The first issue that we have to confront is violent extremism in all of its forms.
In Ankara, I made clear that America is not - and never will be - at war with Islam. We will, however, relentlessly confront violent extremists who pose a grave threat to our security. Because we reject the same thing that people of all faiths reject: the killing of innocent men, women, and children. And it is my first duty as President to protect the American people.
The situation in Afghanistan demonstrates America's goals, and our need to work together. Over seven years ago, the United States pursued al Qaeda and the Taliban with broad international support. We did not go by choice, we went because of necessity. I am aware that some question or justify the events of 9/11. But let us be clear: al Qaeda killed nearly 3,000 people on that day. The victims were innocent men, women and children from America and many other nations who had done nothing to harm anybody. And yet Al Qaeda chose to ruthlessly murder these people, claimed credit for the attack, and even now states their determination to kill on a massive scale. They have affiliates in many countries and are trying to expand their reach. These are not opinions to be debated; these are facts to be dealt with.
Make no mistake: we do not want to keep our troops in Afghanistan. We seek no military bases there. It is agonizing for America to lose our young men and women. It is costly and politically difficult to continue this conflict. We would gladly bring every single one of our troops home if we could be confident that there were not violent extremists in Afghanistan and Pakistan determined to kill as many Americans as they possibly can. But that is not yet the case.
That's why we're partnering with a coalition of forty-six countries. And despite the costs involved, America's commitment will not weaken. Indeed, none of us should tolerate these extremists. They have killed in many countries. They have killed people of different faiths - more than any other, they have killed Muslims. Their actions are irreconcilable with the rights of human beings, the progress of nations, and with Islam. The Holy Koran teaches that whoever kills an innocent, it is as if he has killed all mankind; and whoever saves a person, it is as if he has saved all mankind. The enduring faith of over a billion people is so much bigger than the narrow hatred of a few. Islam is not part of the problem in combating violent extremism - it is an important part of promoting peace.
We also know that military power alone is not going to solve the problems in Afghanistan and Pakistan. That is why we plan to invest $1.5 billion each year over the next five years to partner with Pakistanis to build schools and hospitals, roads and businesses, and hundreds of millions to help those who have been displaced. And that is why we are providing more than $2.8 billion to help Afghans develop their economy and deliver services that people depend upon.
Let me also address the issue of Iraq. Unlike Afghanistan, Iraq was a war of choice that provoked strong differences in my country and around the world. Although I believe that the Iraqi people are ultimately better off without the tyranny of Saddam Hussein, I also believe that events in Iraq have reminded America of the need to use diplomacy and build international consensus to resolve our problems whenever possible. Indeed, we can recall the words of Thomas Jefferson, who said: "I hope that our wisdom will grow with our power, and teach us that the less we use our power the greater it will be."
Today, America has a dual responsibility: to help Iraq forge a better future - and to leave Iraq to Iraqis. I have made it clear to the Iraqi people that we pursue no bases, and no claim on their territory or resources. Iraq's sovereignty is its own. That is why I ordered the removal of our combat brigades by next August. That is why we will honor our agreement with Iraq's democratically-elected government to remove combat troops from Iraqi cities by July, and to remove all our troops from Iraq by 2012. We will help Iraq train its Security Forces and develop its economy. But we will support a secure and united Iraq as a partner, and never as a patron.
And finally, just as America can never tolerate violence by extremists, we must never alter our principles. 9/11 was an enormous trauma to our country. The fear and anger that it provoked was understandable, but in some cases, it led us to act contrary to our ideals. We are taking concrete actions to change course. I have unequivocally prohibited the use of torture by the United States, and I have ordered the prison at Guantanamo Bay closed by early next year.
So America will defend itself respectful of the sovereignty of nations and the rule of law. And we will do so in partnership with Muslim communities which are also threatened. The sooner the extremists are isolated and unwelcome in Muslim communities, the sooner we will all be safer.
The second major source of tension that we need to discuss is the situation between Israelis, Palestinians and the Arab world.
America's strong bonds with Israel are well known. This bond is unbreakable. It is based upon cultural and historical ties, and the recognition that the aspiration for a Jewish homeland is rooted in a tragic history that cannot be denied.
Around the world, the Jewish people were persecuted for centuries, and anti-Semitism in Europe culminated in an unprecedented Holocaust. Tomorrow, I will visit Buchenwald, which was part of a network of camps where Jews were enslaved, tortured, shot and gassed to death by the Third Reich. Six million Jews were killed - more than the entire Jewish population of Israel today. Denying that fact is baseless, ignorant, and hateful. Threatening Israel with destruction - or repeating vile stereotypes about Jews - is deeply wrong, and only serves to evoke in the minds of Israelis this most painful of memories while preventing the peace that the people of this region deserve.
On the other hand, it is also undeniable that the Palestinian people - Muslims and Christians - have suffered in pursuit of a homeland. For more than sixty years they have endured the pain of dislocation. Many wait in refugee camps in the West Bank, Gaza, and neighboring lands for a life of peace and security that they have never been able to lead. They endure the daily humiliations - large and small - that come with occupation. So let there be no doubt: the situation for the Palestinian people is intolerable. America will not turn our backs on the legitimate Palestinian aspiration for dignity, opportunity, and a state of their own.
For decades, there has been a stalemate: two peoples with legitimate aspirations, each with a painful history that makes compromise elusive. It is easy to point fingers - for Palestinians to point to the displacement brought by Israel's founding, and for Israelis to point to the constant hostility and attacks throughout its history from within its borders as well as beyond. But if we see this conflict only from one side or the other, then we will be blind to the truth: the only resolution is for the aspirations of both sides to be met through two states, where Israelis and Palestinians each live in peace and security.
That is in Israel's interest, Palestine's interest, America's interest, and the world's interest. That is why I intend to personally pursue this outcome with all the patience that the task requires. The obligations that the parties have agreed to under the Road Map are clear. For peace to come, it is time for them - and all of us - to live up to our responsibilities.
Palestinians must abandon violence. Resistance through violence and killing is wrong and does not succeed. For centuries, black people in America suffered the lash of the whip as slaves and the humiliation of segregation. But it was not violence that won full and equal rights. It was a peaceful and determined insistence upon the ideals at the center of America's founding. This same story can be told by people from South Africa to South Asia; from Eastern Europe to Indonesia. It's a story with a simple truth: that violence is a dead end. It is a sign of neither courage nor power to shoot rockets at sleeping children, or to blow up old women on a bus. That is not how moral authority is claimed; that is how it is surrendered.
Now is the time for Palestinians to focus on what they can build. The Palestinian Authority must develop its capacity to govern, with institutions that serve the needs of its people. Hamas does have support among some Palestinians, but they also have responsibilities. To play a role in fulfilling Palestinian aspirations, and to unify the Palestinian people, Hamas must put an end to violence, recognize past agreements, and recognize Israel's right to exist.
At the same time, Israelis must acknowledge that just as Israel's right to exist cannot be denied, neither can Palestine's. The United States does not accept the legitimacy of continued Israeli settlements. This construction violates previous agreements and undermines efforts to achieve peace. It is time for these settlements to stop.
Israel must also live up to its obligations to ensure that Palestinians can live, and work, and develop their society. And just as it devastates Palestinian families, the continuing humanitarian crisis in Gaza does not serve Israel's security; neither does the continuing lack of opportunity in the West Bank. Progress in the daily lives of the Palestinian people must be part of a road to peace, and Israel must take concrete steps to enable such progress.
Finally, the Arab States must recognize that the Arab Peace Initiative was an important beginning, but not the end of their responsibilities. The Arab-Israeli conflict should no longer be used to distract the people of Arab nations from other problems. Instead, it must be a cause for action to help the Palestinian people develop the institutions that will sustain their state; to recognize Israel's legitimacy; and to choose progress over a self-defeating focus on the past.
America will align our policies with those who pursue peace, and say in public what we say in private to Israelis and Palestinians and Arabs. We cannot impose peace. But privately, many Muslims recognize that Israel will not go away. Likewise, many Israelis recognize the need for a Palestinian state. It is time for us to act on what everyone knows to be true.
Too many tears have flowed. Too much blood has been shed. All of us have a responsibility to work for the day when the mothers of Israelis and Palestinians can see their children grow up without fear; when the Holy Land of three great faiths is the place of peace that God intended it to be; when Jerusalem is a secure and lasting home for Jews and Christians and Muslims, and a place for all of the children of Abraham to mingle peacefully together as in the story of Isra, when Moses, Jesus, and Mohammed (peace be upon them) joined in prayer.
The third source of tension is our shared interest in the rights and responsibilities of nations on nuclear weapons.
This issue has been a source of tension between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran. For many years, Iran has defined itself in part by its opposition to my country, and there is indeed a tumultuous history between us. In the middle of the Cold War, the United States played a role in the overthrow of a democratically-elected Iranian government. Since the Islamic Revolution, Iran has played a role in acts of hostage-taking and violence against U.S. troops and civilians. This history is well known. Rather than remain trapped in the past, I have made it clear to Iran's leaders and people that my country is prepared to move forward. The question, now, is not what Iran is against, but rather what future it wants to build.
It will be hard to overcome decades of mistrust, but we will proceed with courage, rectitude and resolve. There will be many issues to discuss between our two countries, and we are willing to move forward without preconditions on the basis of mutual respect. But it is clear to all concerned that when it comes to nuclear weapons, we have reached a decisive point. This is not simply about America's interests. It is about preventing a nuclear arms race in the Middle East that could lead this region and the world down a hugely dangerous path.
I understand those who protest that some countries have weapons that others do not. No single nation should pick and choose which nations hold nuclear weapons. That is why I strongly reaffirmed America's commitment to seek a world in which no nations hold nuclear weapons. And any nation - including Iran - should have the right to access peaceful nuclear power if it complies with its responsibilities under the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. That commitment is at the core of the Treaty, and it must be kept for all who fully abide by it. And I am hopeful that all countries in the region can share in this goal.
The fourth issue that I will address is democracy.
I know there has been controversy about the promotion of democracy in recent years, and much of this controversy is connected to the war in Iraq. So let me be clear: no system of government can or should be imposed upon one nation by any other.
That does not lessen my commitment, however, to governments that reflect the will of the people. Each nation gives life to this principle in its own way, grounded in the traditions of its own people. America does not presume to know what is best for everyone, just as we would not presume to pick the outcome of a peaceful election. But I do have an unyielding belief that all people yearn for certain things: the ability to speak your mind and have a say in how you are governed; confidence in the rule of law and the equal administration of justice; government that is transparent and doesn't steal from the people; the freedom to live as you choose. Those are not just American ideas, they are human rights, and that is why we will support them everywhere.
There is no straight line to realize this promise. But this much is clear: governments that protect these rights are ultimately more stable, successful and secure. Suppressing ideas never succeeds in making them go away. America respects the right of all peaceful and law-abiding voices to be heard around the world, even if we disagree with them. And we will welcome all elected, peaceful governments - provided they govern with respect for all their people.
This last point is important because there are some who advocate for democracy only when they are out of power; once in power, they are ruthless in suppressing the rights of others. No matter where it takes hold, government of the people and by the people sets a single standard for all who hold power: you must maintain your power through consent, not coercion; you must respect the rights of minorities, and participate with a spirit of tolerance and compromise; you must place the interests of your people and the legitimate workings of the political process above your party. Without these ingredients, elections alone do not make true democracy.
The fifth issue that we must address together is religious freedom.
Islam has a proud tradition of tolerance. We see it in the history of Andalusia and Cordoba during the Inquisition. I saw it firsthand as a child in Indonesia, where devout Christians worshiped freely in an overwhelmingly Muslim country. That is the spirit we need today. People in every country should be free to choose and live their faith based upon the persuasion of the mind, heart, and soul. This tolerance is essential for religion to thrive, but it is being challenged in many different ways.
Among some Muslims, there is a disturbing tendency to measure one's own faith by the rejection of another's. The richness of religious diversity must be upheld - whether it is for Maronites in Lebanon or the Copts in Egypt. And fault lines must be closed among Muslims as well, as the divisions between Sunni and Shia have led to tragic violence, particularly in Iraq.
Freedom of religion is central to the ability of peoples to live together. We must always examine the ways in which we protect it. For instance, in the United States, rules on charitable giving have made it harder for Muslims to fulfill their religious obligation. That is why I am committed to working with American Muslims to ensure that they can fulfill zakat.
Likewise, it is important for Western countries to avoid impeding Muslim citizens from practicing religion as they see fit - for instance, by dictating what clothes a Muslim woman should wear. We cannot disguise hostility towards any religion behind the pretence of liberalism.
Indeed, faith should bring us together. That is why we are forging service projects in America that bring together Christians, Muslims, and Jews. That is why we welcome efforts like Saudi Arabian King Abdullah's Interfaith dialogue and Turkey's leadership in the Alliance of Civilizations. Around the world, we can turn dialogue into Interfaith service, so bridges between peoples lead to action - whether it is combating malaria in Africa, or providing relief after a natural disaster.
The sixth issue that I want to address is women's rights.
I know there is debate about this issue. I reject the view of some in the West that a woman who chooses to cover her hair is somehow less equal, but I do believe that a woman who is denied an education is denied equality. And it is no coincidence that countries where women are well-educated are far more likely to be prosperous.
Now let me be clear: issues of women's equality are by no means simply an issue for Islam. In Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Indonesia, we have seen Muslim-majority countries elect a woman to lead. Meanwhile, the struggle for women's equality continues in many aspects of American life, and in countries around the world.
Our daughters can contribute just as much to society as our sons, and our common prosperity will be advanced by allowing all humanity - men and women - to reach their full potential. I do not believe that women must make the same choices as men in order to be equal, and I respect those women who choose to live their lives in traditional roles. But it should be their choice. That is why the United States will partner with any Muslim-majority country to support expanded literacy for girls, and to help young women pursue employment through micro-financing that helps people live their dreams.
Finally, I want to discuss economic development and opportunity.
I know that for many, the face of globalization is contradictory. The Internet and television can bring knowledge and information, but also offensive sexuality and mindless violence. Trade can bring new wealth and opportunities, but also huge disruptions and changing communities. In all nations - including my own - this change can bring fear. Fear that because of modernity we will lose of control over our economic choices, our politics, and most importantly our identities - those things we most cherish about our communities, our families, our traditions, and our faith.
But I also know that human progress cannot be denied. There need not be contradiction between development and tradition. Countries like Japan and South Korea grew their economies while maintaining distinct cultures. The same is true for the astonishing progress within Muslim-majority countries from Kuala Lumpur to Dubai. In ancient times and in our times, Muslim communities have been at the forefront of innovation and education.
This is important because no development strategy can be based only upon what comes out of the ground, nor can it be sustained while young people are out of work. Many Gulf States have enjoyed great wealth as a consequence of oil, and some are beginning to focus it on broader development. But all of us must recognize that education and innovation will be the currency of the 21st century, and in too many Muslim communities there remains underinvestment in these areas. I am emphasizing such investments within my country. And while America in the past has focused on oil and gas in this part of the world, we now seek a broader engagement.
On education, we will expand exchange programs, and increase scholarships, like the one that brought my father to America, while encouraging more Americans to study in Muslim communities. And we will match promising Muslim students with internships in America; invest in on-line learning for teachers and children around the world; and create a new online network, so a teenager in Kansas can communicate instantly with a teenager in Cairo.
On economic development, we will create a new corps of business volunteers to partner with counterparts in Muslim-majority countries. And I will host a Summit on Entrepreneurship this year to identify how we can deepen ties between business leaders, foundations and social entrepreneurs in the United States and Muslim communities around the world.
On science and technology, we will launch a new fund to support technological development in Muslim-majority countries, and to help transfer ideas to the marketplace so they can create jobs. We will open centers of scientific excellence in Africa, the Middle East and Southeast Asia, and appoint new Science Envoys to collaborate on programs that develop new sources of energy, create green jobs, digitize records, clean water, and grow new crops. And today I am announcing a new global effort with the Organization of the Islamic Conference to eradicate polio. And we will also expand partnerships with Muslim communities to promote child and maternal health.
All these things must be done in partnership. Americans are ready to join with citizens and governments; community organizations, religious leaders, and businesses in Muslim communities around the world to help our people pursue a better life.
The issues that I have described will not be easy to address. But we have a responsibility to join together on behalf of the world we seek - a world where extremists no longer threaten our people, and American troops have come home; a world where Israelis and Palestinians are each secure in a state of their own, and nuclear energy is used for peaceful purposes; a world where governments serve their citizens, and the rights of all God's children are respected. Those are mutual interests. That is the world we seek. But we can only achieve it together.
I know there are many - Muslim and non-Muslim - who question whether we can forge this new beginning. Some are eager to stoke the flames of division, and to stand in the way of progress. Some suggest that it isn't worth the effort - that we are fated to disagree, and civilizations are doomed to clash. Many more are simply skeptical that real change can occur. There is so much fear, so much mistrust. But if we choose to be bound by the past, we will never move forward. And I want to particularly say this to young people of every faith, in every country - you, more than anyone, have the ability to remake this world.
All of us share this world for but a brief moment in time. The question is whether we spend that time focused on what pushes us apart, or whether we commit ourselves to an effort - a sustained effort - to find common ground, to focus on the future we seek for our children, and to respect the dignity of all human beings.
It is easier to start wars than to end them. It is easier to blame others than to look inward; to see what is different about someone than to find the things we share. But we should choose the right path, not just the easy path. There is also one rule that lies at the heart of every religion - that we do unto others as we would have them do unto us. This truth transcends nations and peoples - a belief that isn't new; that isn't black or white or brown; that isn't Christian, or Muslim or Jew. It's a belief that pulsed in the cradle of civilization, and that still beats in the heart of billions. It's a faith in other people, and it's what brought me here today.
We have the power to make the world we seek, but only if we have the courage to make a new beginning, keeping in mind what has been written.
The Holy Koran tells us, "O mankind! We have created you male and a female; and we have made you into nations and tribes so that you may know one another."
The Talmud tells us: "The whole of the Torah is for the purpose of promoting peace."
The Holy Bible tells us, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God."
The people of the world can live together in peace. We know that is God's vision. Now, that must be our work here on Earth. Thank you. And may God's peace be upon you.
And the LORD appeared in the tabernacle in a pillar of a cloud: and the pillar of the cloud stood over the door of the tabernacle.
And the LORD said unto Moses, Behold, thou shalt sleep with thy fathers; and this people will rise up, and go a whoring after the gods of the strangers of the land, whither they go to be among them, and will forsake me, and break my covenant which I have made with them.
Then my anger shall be kindled against them in that day, and I will forsake them, and I will hide my face from them, and they shall be devoured, and many evils and troubles shall befall them; so that they will say in that day, Are not these evils come upon us, because our God is not among us?
The House of Representatives doesn't vote on the confirmation process of Supreme Court Justices; But, can still object and speak out on this blatant attempt by Catholics to monopolize control of the top Judicial body of the federal government, the last resort for justice. They just don't get it!
However, the Senate does vote. But, they just don't get it! Or, do they, and are they in collusion on this mad dash for Catholic domination of the political wherewith all of the U.S?
^
Here are the current RomanCatholic Supreme Court Justices:
Samuel Alito
Anthony Kennedy
John Roberts
Antonin Scalia
Clarence Thomas
How many Catholics are enough? Does Sonia Sotomayor have to be the 6th?
Why? Aren't there already too many of her religion on board?
The gender isn't the issue; It's the religion, stupid!
But, for all the career politicians not to get it is one thing...
But, for Roscoe Bartlett (R) Congressman from Mary-land, and Sheila Jackson-Lee (D) Congresswoman from Houston, Texas; Is something completely unexplainable. After all, these two Congresspeople are "professed" Seventh Day Adventists; Yet, when they see such overt subversive advances where is their voice of alarm? Have either of them ever read the books of Daniel or Revelation in the Bible? Or, perhaps The Great Controversy?
They just don't get it!
Or, maybe they do, and they just want to continue buying and selling...
Are we expecting Jesus' return, or just business as usual?
Posted by Foon Rhee, deputy national political editor June 2, 2009 02:11 PM
Judge Sonia Sotomayor this morning began the gauntlet otherwise known as courtesy calls on senators who will decide whether she joins the Supreme Court.
And Democrats are coming to Sotomayor's defense after a week of criticism from conservatives, particularly on her views on race.
After meeting her, Senator Patrick Leahy of Vermont, chairman of the Judiciary Committee, told reporters that Sotomayor had reassured him about her 2001 comment that a wise Latina could often reach a better judgment than a white male judge.
Leahy said that while Sotomayor said personal experiences shape who you are, "ultimately and completely" -- the senator repeated that she used those words -- as a judge you follow the law.
There's not one law for one race and another for another and not a different law for the rich rather than the poor, Leahy said she told him.
Asked when the committee will start confirmation hearings, Leahy said the "vicious attacks" on Sotomayor by some Republicans "motivate me to go sooner rather than later."
He referred to conservative talk show host Rush Limbaugh comparing Sotomayor to ex-Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke.
The only forum for Sotomayor to respond to "totally false" charges, Leahy said, is during the hearings.
Before his session, Jeff Sessions of Alabama, the ranking Republican on the committee, promised Sotomayor "a respectful hearing."
"I think you'll enjoy it," he said, sitting across from her and reporters recording every word.
After their meeting, Sessions said he talked to Sotomayor about her personal background and the influence of that on her as a judge. He declined to discuss details.
He also said they discussed legal theories that critics say lead to judicial activism, and he said she responded in "an effective way," but said they did not discuss her rulings in any detail.
Sessions said he was "very impressed" with her experience and knowledge.
Asked about the timing of hearings, Sessions said it would not be "irresponsible" to wait on hearings and suggested that September might be the right time because there are thousands of rulings that need to be reviewed from Sotomayor's 17 years on the federal bench. He and Leahy plan to talk Wednesday about the hearings, and whether they would come before the August recess, as President Obama wants.
"I don't think it's good to rush this nomination," the senator said.
Sessions did say that some of the language being used is too harsh, but pointed out that it is coming from those who are not elected Republicans.
UPDATE: Senator Jon Kyl, an Arizona Republican, told reporters that Republicans "need to hold our fire" until they further examine her decisions.
But he laid into President Obama, noting that when he voted against President George W. Bush's nominations of Samuel Alito and John Roberts, Obama said that judges almost unanimously agree on 95 percent of cases so it's the last five percent where there is no precedent that are at issue.
Kyl faulted Obama emphasis on empathy, what the senator described as "looking out for the little guy."
"That's wrong," Kyl said. "His test is wrong."
It's up to state and federal lawmakers to make such public policy decisions to favor the needy, he said.
Mitch McConnell, the top Republican in the Senate, said he voted against her elevation to the Second Circuit Court of Appeals because he was concerned she would be an activist judge, but said he wouldn't necessarily vote against her nomination.
"That was then and this is now," he told reporters. "I'm willing to look at this nomination afresh."
She huddled first with Harry Reid, the top Democrat in the Senate, who stressed her Horatio Alger story as daughter of a single mom who rose from the Bronx to Princeton and Yale and the federal bench. If confirmed, she would be the first Hispanic on the high court, but her comments on how her background informs her work have been seized on by Republicans.
"We have the whole package here," Reid told reporters before their private session. "Academically, I mean, I am terribly impressed. Princeton, summa cum laude. We have Yale Law School, editor of the law review. That's very impressive.
"But if that weren't enough, her background is very significant," he added. "I think that your life story is so compelling, that America identifies with the underdog. And you've been an underdog many times in your life."
Also, another national poll shows support for Sotomayor, though many Americans don't know enough about her yet to have an opinion.
The Associated Press-GfK survey released today does give her a more favorable first impression that former President George W. Bush's nominees to the high court.
The poll found that about a third of respondents have a favorable view of Sotomayor, while 18 percent view her unfavorably. Half of those polled say she should be confirmed, while 22 percent oppose her confirmation.
The House ethics committee is reviewing a trip Rep. Charles Rangel (D-N.Y.) and several other members took to the Caribbean island of St. Maarten last year.
Ethics committee Staff Director Blake Chisam and Todd Ungerecht, counsel to the panel’s ranking member, have asked for information from a conservative group that has raised questions about a November 2008 conference at the St. Maarten Sonesta Maho Bay Resort & Casino.
Earlier, the new Office of Congressional Ethics interviewed staff members to some lawmakers who attended an event at the sun-swept resort billed as the Caribbean Multi-Cultural Business Conference.
Besides Rangel, Democratic Reps. Carolyn Kilpatrick (Mich.), Sheila Jackson Lee (Texas), Donald Payne (N.J.), Bennie Thompson (Miss.) and Virgin Islands Del. Donna Christensen attended the event.
The conservative National Legal and Policy Center’s president, Peter Flaherty, traveled to St. Maarten and found evidence that corporate sponsors paid for the conference.
House rules imposed by Democrats after they took back the House in 2006 bar lawmakers from accepting travel lasting more than two days if corporations that “employ or retain a registered lobbyist” are underwriting or organizing any part of them.
Lawmakers who attended listed the New York Carib Foundation, a non-profit group affiliated with a newspaper aimed at New York City’s U.S. Caribbean immigrant community, as the sponsor.
But photos and transcripts taken by Flaherty show evidence of corporate involvement. Several banners above and below the main podium included corporate logos of Pfizer, Citigroup, IBM, Verizon, AT&T, Macy’s and American Airlines. Flaherty also heard Kilpatrick and Payne thank business “sponsors.”
Chisam and Ungerecht contacted the conservative watchdog group on May 22 to request information on the conference. Flaherty replied with a letter to the ethics committee on Friday, along with 18 photos, a transcript of the morning conference sessions, including Kilpatrick’s remarks, notes of Payne’s remarks, and a copy of the conference program.
Flaherty also filed a formal ethics complaint calling for full-fledged investigation into the trip.
“My characterization of the trip as a ‘junket’ is based on my observation that the sessions were lightly attended,” Flaherty wrote in the complaint. “Most attendees spent significant time at the beach or the pool. Members of Congress attended the sessions when they had a speaking role.”
Rangel spokesman Emile Milne declined to comment, citing the office’s “no comment” policy on ethics committee matters.
Jackson Lee’s office said she paid for the travel herself. It is unclear whether Jackson Lee used personal or office funds for the trip’s costs; her office did not respond to specific questions about how she paid for the trip.
Jackson Lee Chief of Staff Leon Buck said OCE interviewed him as well as the office scheduler about the trip in March.
“We just showed them the background information that we had received from the [New York Carib News Foundation],” Buck said.
It’s unclear whether the panel has launched a full-blown investigation into the Caribbean trip or whether the committee has expanded its ongoing probe of Rangel’s personal finances and fundraising activities to include the travel. The panel usually announces the formal launch of an investigation after taking a preliminary look into the matter.
The interviews of staffers suggest the OCE, an independent panel created last year, looked into the Caribbean trip and found enough evidence to recommend a full ethics committee investigation.
Rangel late last week predicted that the ethics panel would wrap up its investigation “very soon.” He also said he expected to be called in for questioning.
Democrats imposed stricter limits on corporate-sponsored travel to prevent the type of abuse unearthed during the Jack Abramoff scandal. Lawmakers who attended Abramoff-organized golf junkets to London and Scotland, as well as other luxurious locales, listed several nonprofits as having paid for the travel even though corporations footed the bill.
In calling for an investigation, Flaherty highlighted Payne’s public recognition of each corporate sponsor during an evening session. He also noted Payne’s denial in a previous article in The Hill that he saw posters bearing corporate logos above and below the podium where he and other speakers made remarks.
“As evident from the photographs, Payne’s representation that he did not see the logos on the podium sign or on the banner above the podium is implausible,” he said. “Corporate sponsorship was also obvious in the program and in items provided participants at registration, including a bag with the Macy’s logo on its side, and a notebook embossed with the Citigroup logo.”
Payne’s office had not responded to a request for comment by press time.
Flaherty attended the conference for more than two days until the police approached and questioned him just hours before a dinner featuring Rangel.
“I was detained on the Sonesta property by the Police Korp of St. Maarten,” he wrote. “I was questioned and my driver’s license was taken from me. I was asked where I was born, my occupation, my marital status, my purpose for visiting St. Maarten, my hotel room number and many other questions. I was released after being told that ‘conference organizers’ did not want me to attend additional events.”
WESTMINSTER, Md.--(EON: Enhanced Online News)--The office of Congressman Roscoe Bartlett and international hunger relief organization Feed The Children will be teaming up at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 2 to distribute a semi tractor-trailer full of boxes of food and personal care items to Westminster Rescue Mission (658 Lucabugh Mill Road).
The 400 families to receive this donation have been pre-identified by Hereford United Methodist Church, a Feed The Children partner agency. The boxes are designed to help supplement a family for up to one week.
“We are so thankful to Congressman Bartlett’s generosity and support of our neighbors in Maryland,” said Larry Jones, founder and president of Feed The Children. “Four hundred families will receive a week’s worth of food and personal care items today and for that, we say
‘Thank you’ to Congressman Bartlett.”
(Media note: Congressman Bartlett will not be present at the truck distribution.)
About Feed The Children Founded in 1979 by Larry and Frances Jones, Feed The Children is consistently ranked as one of the 10 largest international charities in the U.S., based on private, non-government support. Feed The Children is a Christian, international, nonprofit relief organization with headquarters in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, that delivers food, medicine, clothing and other necessities to individuals, children and families who lack these essentials due to famine, war, poverty or natural disasters. In FY 2007, Feed The Children distributed more than 135 million pounds of food and other essentials to children and their families in all 50 states and internationally, supplementing almost 800,000 meals each day. Since its founding, the organization has reached out to help those in need in 118 countries around the globe. For more information, please visit:
Bartlett makes his pitch for a promotion - 11 hours ago Roscoe Bartlett of Maryland is in line to be the top-ranking Republican on the House Armed Services Committee, thanks to President Barack Obama's decision ...The Session - 6 related articles »
Volume XXVIII Issue VI June 2009 Last Trumpet Ministries, PO Box 806, Beaver Dam, WI 53916 Fax: 920-887-2626 Internet: http://www.lasttrumpetministries.org/
The Fall of the United States of Babylon!
"And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory. And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies."
Revelation 18:1-3
"Babylon hath been a golden cup in the Lord's hand, that hath made all the earth drunken: the nations have drunken of her wine; therefore the nations are mad. Babylon is suddenly fallen and destroyed: howl for her; take balm for her pain, if so be she may be healed. We would have healed Babylon, but she is not healed: forsake her, and let us go every one into his own country: for her judgment reacheth unto heaven, and is lifted up even to the skies."
Jeremiah 51:7-9
"Because of the multitude of the whoredoms of the well-favored harlot, the mistress of witchcrafts, that selleth nations through her whoredoms, and families through her witchcrafts. Behold, I am against thee, saith the Lord of hosts, and I will discover thy skirts upon thy face, and I will shew the nations thy nakedness, and the kingdoms thy shame. And I will cast abominable filth upon thee, and make thee vile, and will set thee as a gazingstock."
Nahum 3:4-6
In this issue of the Last Trumpet Newsletter, we will use both the Word of God and undeniable current events to reveal the shortness of time that is left before the second coming of our Saviour and His final judgment upon this wicked world. One of the most notable events that takes place just prior to our Lord's return is the fall and absolute demise of the greatest nation on earth. With spiritual discernment, we must understand that when the Bible speaks of Babylon, it is not speaking only of that ancient nation and empire that fell to the Medes and Persians thousands of years ago. Long after the fall of ancient Babylon, we find the New Testament book of Revelation tells us of a future Babylon that exists in the last days. It is a latter day nation that rises to become the greatest economic power in the world and exerts its power and influence everywhere. This latter-day Babylon also has a mystery composite religion of compromise that seeks to unify all of humanity under a universal Luciferian tolerance. Then, shortly before the return of the Lord Jesus Christ, the latter-day Babylon begins to crumble and rot from within until it falls suddenly! All of this being true from the Word of God, we should be able to see it happening right now, and we do! Everyone knows that something is drastically wrong with the United States of America, but most are turning their heads and pretending they just do not see!
The erstwhile great United States of America has become the United States of Babylon, and it is falling, falling! The signs of this in reference to the Word of God are everywhere. The great sign of the collapse of our nation came on September 11th, 2001, when the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New York City were destroyed by satanic conspiracy. These two pillars, reaching one-quarter mile high, were the pride of our nation's gateway in the East. Since these two great pillars tumbled straight down into their own footprints, our nation has never been the same. When I think about this, I am reminded of Judges 16:27, which tells us of the incident when Samson was brought to the massive Temple of Dagon, the god of the Philistines. Incidentally, the image of the god Dagon had the same fish head shaped hat that the Pope wears to this day. Samson was chained as a prisoner and object of derision between the two support pillars that held up the building. God gave Samson one more surge of strength and he moved the pillars. The temple of Dagon fell and killed approximately 3,000 men and women. On September 11th, 2001, two great pillars at the Eastern gate of our nation were brought down, and approximately 3,000 men and women were killed. Was this Satan's vengeance because of what happened to his Temple of Dagon, and is it a sign from Almighty God that our nation began to fall dramatically at that point?
We must also reference Isaiah 33:18 which reads as follows: "Thine heart shall meditate terror. Where is the scribe? Where is the receiver? Where is he that counted the towers?" Isaiah 30:25 also declares, "And there shall be on every high mountain and upon every high hill, rivers and streams of waters in the day of the great slaughter, when the towers fall." Quite obviously, the fall of the World Trade Center was a time marker indicating the fall of latter day Babylon! Rivers and streams in the high hills is a Bible metaphor for prosperity, which suddenly began to change to economic catastrophe. These are also days of great slaughter in American Babylon by means of abortion, manufactured epidemics, and "vaccinicide."
Truly, these are trying times, and the coming of the Saviour draweth nigh! If you are reading this and you have never personally met the Lord Jesus, what are you waiting for? Time is running out. Call upon him right now with a true heart, and He will save you and give you peace now and for all eternity!
The Strange Forces of Barack Obama!
On May 1st, 2009, which happens to be the witches' high cross-quarter sabat of Beltaine, Reuters News Service featured the following headline: "Obama Reveling in U.S. Power Unseen in Decades." (1) It was no coincidence that the headline didn't say "power not seen" but rather "power unseen." Truly, there are unseen powers at work. Dr. Adam Weishaupt, founder of the Illuminati, referred to that unseen power as the controlling unknown.
The power of Obama intensified even more with the approaching of Beltaine when on April 29th Senator Arlen Specter, a Republican from Pennsylvania, became a Democrat and greatly shifted the power in the U.S. Senate in favor of Obama. (2) The people of Pennsylvania elected Specter because they wanted a Republican, and thus, he turned his back to the electorate of his state. This is exactly the kind of man that Obama likes to have around him.
The antichrist overtones and rank blasphemy that surround the Obama presidency is increasing in a sickening crescendo. To commemorate the 100th day of Obama in office, a painting entitled "The Truth" was to be placed on display at New York City's Union Square. The picture featured Obama in front of the presidential seal with arms in a crucifix position and wearing a crown of thorns. His head was bowed down as a suffering messiah. President Obama did not object to the painting, but thankfully, there was such a public outcry against this blasphemy that the event had to be cancelled! (3)
Obama made it very clear on his 100th day in office that he is "remaking America." He didn't say rebuilding, but remaking! Does Obama consider himself to be the Mighty Maker? While honoring himself at a dinner commemorating his 100th day in office, Obama said the following words: "I would like to talk about what my administration plans to achieve in the next 100 days. During the second 100 days, we will design, build and open a library dedicated to my first 100 days. I believe that my next 100 days will be so successful, that I will complete them in 72 days - and on the 73rd day I will rest." (4) The inference of deity here is obvious, but why the 73rd day? The 100th day of Obama was April 29th, 2009. Seventy-two days added to that brings us to July 10th, 2009. Obama intends to rest from his creative labors on Saturday, July 11th. Saturday is the seventh day of the week, but in addition to that, we must consider the date itself as 07/11/09. Since zeros must be disregarded and since witches use backward masking, we find that if we look at Obama's 73rd day backwards it is 9-11-7. The number seven indicates sanctity and completion, and we all know the significance of 9-11. What is this man planning? Time will tell! It is also interesting to note that on March 31st, 2009, the Traverse City Record-Eagle reported a story out of Washington stating that a new $3.5 billion laser has just been completed and is now ready for use. The word laser is an acronym for Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation. This laser was developed by the National Ignition Facility of the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in California. This laser is capable of simulating the energy force of a hydrogen bomb and the sun itself! (5) I am reminded of Revelation 13:13, regarding the second beast, which reads as follows: "And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men."
Another interesting incident took place when Obama recently made a speech at Georgetown University. Obama refused to come to this Roman Catholic Jesuit School unless the symbol IHS was covered up. The many statues, crucifixes and other relics didn't bother Obama, but he could not tolerate the letters IHS. Those letters are understood to mean "Jesus the Saviour of Man." This is what Obama could not tolerate. (6) The school did comply and covered up those letters in order to receive the President. In John 5:43 Jesus warned us as follows: "I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive." While I do not believe in any religious symbols, the inference from Obama is obvious, and he is showing his true antichrist colors! Another point that must be made regarding Obama is that he declared he would be a "no show" for the National Day of Prayer, and even though he signed the proclamation, he said he would be distancing himself from it. (7) Who is this strange President? Do we really know him, or do we really want to know him? On May 5th, 2009, the Associated Press released a story about Obama and Vice President Biden and their favorite fast food restaurant in Arlington, Virginia. It is an independent hamburger joint called Ray's Hell Burgers. (8) The hamburgers there are known as "hell burgers," and the media referred to Obama as having been to hell and back. Hell is certainly nothing to joke about!
Another amazing incident took place on the day before Obama's 100th day in office. A Boeing 747 aircraft, resembling Air Force One, buzzed the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor and then flew at an altitude of only 1,000 feet above Ground Zero. The 747 was being chased by a F-16 fighter the entire time. Southern Manhattan went into a panic as offices were evacuated and people ran down the streets screaming for fear that it was another 9-11 attack. It turned out to be an Obama photo opportunity that cost nearly one-third of a million dollars. Obama claimed he knew nothing about it and would look into it, even though it was discovered that the Federal officials threatened the New York Police Department, the Secret Service, the FBI, and the Mayor's office that if the secret got out, there would be "Federal sanctions against them." (9) New Yorkers were outraged at the stupidity of such an event. What kind of a test was this, and what will happen next? Soon we will know!
The Rise of the Marxist-Socialist Reich!
The reports continue to come in! The jobless rate is climbing in forty-six states with California at 11.2 percent! (10) The U.S. Government is now borrowing fifty cents for every dollar it spends. (11) Recent stress tests of the big banks revealed that bad assets are triple of what they were thought to be previously. (12) On March 20th, two major corporate credit unions were taken over by the Federal Government, and these two essentially affect all of the subordinate and small credit unions as well. (13) On April 17th, 2009, Federal regulators closed American Sterling Bank, based in Missouri, and the Great Basin Bank, based in Nevada. (14)
The automobile industries are all either in bankruptcy or close to it. The Federal Government is seizing them all as the Marxist-Socialist plan of Obama marches on. On April 27th, the Federal Government became the majority owner of General Motors! (15) Cities, states, counties, so-called free enterprise, and businesses of every kind are in deep trouble, and they are being forced to stick their snouts in the trough of the Federal Government! In fact, there have been so many bailouts that a top-level government economist is calling for a new agency to be set up. (16) Just as the Department of Homeland Security was set up after the twin towers came down and we had an unprecedented new American Gestapo, we will now see a new Department of Federal Bailouts. This would be nothing less than a Kremlin-like Politburo to administer and enforce socialism and bring an end to free enterprise. Apparently Nikita Khrushchev was right when he said America would be taken over by Communism from within! Babylon is falling, falling!
The Swine Behind the Flu!
On April 24th, 2009, Reuters News Service featured the following headline: "Deadly New Flu Strain Erupts in Mexico." (17) On April 27th, 2009, Mexico City was hit by a powerful 6.0 magnitude earthquake. (18) It was quite a series of events. On April 16th, Obama was in Mexico. Eleven days later came the flu outbreak, and the Mexican official that first greeted Obama and shook his hand was dead from the flu. Three days later came the earthquake! Almost immediately, the World Health Organization declared "international concern" over the so-called "swine flu." (19) The CDC, or Center for Disease Control, seemed to know a lot about this flu almost immediately and apparently in advance. The CDC issued the following statement: "A new and unusual strain of swine flu is likely widespread and impossible to contain. This new strain of influenza has shown it can spread easily from person to person. It has been found in several places, and among people who have had no known contact. This suggests that there is an unseen chain of infection and that the virus has been spreading quietly." (20) Without a doubt, this so-called "swine flu" was intentionally manufactured in a laboratory as a designer virus, which can be modified to extremes later.
Shortly after the outbreak, I received an e-mail from a close friend overseas who is a medical doctor and researcher who now practices natural medicine. This man, as a professional, had an user name and password that allowed him to access the U.S. Government's computer data on toxicology and virology. Immediately after he sent the personal e-mail to me, his password and user name to the Government website disappeared and no longer existed. The information I received is that the people who are susceptible to contracting the H1N1 "swine flu" are those who have been vaccinated within the past five years. Their bodies were set up to receive this new flu by their immunizations. I also was informed that the reason why Mexico was chosen as the launching pad for this so-called "epidemic" is because those who have tuberculosis or have had it are especially susceptible to contact H1N1. Mexico has had high numbers of people with tuberculosis. The U.S. Government website also stated that before the outbreak in Mexico, a vial of swine flu H1N1 was unaccounted for and had gone missing while being transported to a Mexican government veterinary science laboratory in Mexico. This report soon disappeared from the government website. We also know that the H1N1 virus is made up of four different genetic pieces from different virus sources and had to be intentionally produced. We know that swine flu can only be transferred to other swine. Avian flu is exclusive to birds and so on. I am sure that a pig, a bird, and a human didn't get together in a conspiracy to produce H1N1. This is diabolical fear mongering, designed to control people, and to especially steal away the faith and courage from anyone who still has such virtues.
I remember when in the very early days of Obama's campaign, people were saying, "The day that Obama becomes President is the day pigs will fly." Obama was elected, and I have been looking around to see if any pigs were flying, and sure enough -- swine flu (flew).
On May 6th, 2009, ABC News reported that the H1N1 is now expected to mutate into a new deadly strain, which would require people everywhere to receive three successive inoculations to control it. (21) The CDC admitted as far back as January 14th, 2004, that they were mixing avian and human flu viruses in a pandemic study. (22) We can be sure of one thing: all vaccines are poison. They contain decomposed protein from the pustules of sick animals and/or putrefied eggs mixed with carbolic acid, mercury, and formaldehyde. Perhaps that is why autism is epidemic among immunized children and what was once extremely rare (autism) is now quite common. Now we can understand why we now have legislation on the Federal level that protects the makers of vaccines from lawsuits if the government declares a public health emergency. (23)
The government is constantly trying to control the bodies, souls, and minds of the people. That is why they regulate food, drugs, and religion. The Federal Government absolutely hates the health food and vitamin industries because they help people to live longer. Now the Federal Government has threatened General Mills because the company has advertised that using Cheerios reduces cholesterol by 10% in one month. General Mills has provided the evidence, but they have been told that if a food is advertised as having health benefits, it must now be considered a medicine and be properly licensed and regulated. (24) Quite obviously, we cannot think of any food as having specific benefits or it becomes a medicine. Conversely, only food that has no benefits to the body of man can be freely sold without government interference. This is insanity of the first magnitude!
Controlling the Common Herd of Humanity!
It is becoming obvious and evident that true Christians are being singled out by the antichrist conspiratorial powers. On April 12th, 2009, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a list of the type of people they are watching. Those who are suspect include the following: religious radicals, opponents of abortion, those who believe in conspiracy "theories," believers in end time prophecy, those who have Ron Paul bumper stickers, those who have radical Christian views, and especially U.S. war veterans. (25) According to Janet Napolitano, Obama's handpicked head of Homeland Security, all veterans are potential terrorists because they are trained in military tactics. All of these so-called "potential terrorists" are listed in a government publication entitled "The Domestic Extremism Lexicon." On May 5th, 2009, the Federal Government was facing such an outcry against their incriminating lexicon that they decided to "pull back" the 11-page document. (26) Pulling back the document, however, does not mean they have had a change of heart or diabolical purpose!
In another Federal attack against true Christianity and the Word of God, the House of Representatives passed the "Hate Crimes Bill" on May 6th, 2009. The bill, known as HR1913, passed with a vote of 249-175. (27) Under the provisions of the bill, Christian ministers can be arrested and convicted if someone commits a hate crime after listening to them speak. If the minister speaks out against abortion or homosexuality, he is responsible for any radical act that follows, no matter who commits it. The penalties range from ten years to life imprisonment. The Obama-controlled Senate is expected to pass this legislation, and Obama stated that he would promptly sign it. Obama's exact words to the U.S. Senate were, "Finalize this bill and take swift action." (28)
Truly, the second coming of Christ is at hand. There is currently underway a new pre-census program in the United States, and Obama has hired 140,000 temporary workers to complete it as quickly as possible. The program is costing 700 million dollars, and the special census workers are not counting people, but rather marking the front door of every home in America with electronic GPS (global positioning satellite) coordinates. (29) Incidentally, the GPS coordinates for the front door of Obama's White House are 38.898590 latitude, and -77.035971 longitude. When you see someone standing one foot from your front door, they are marking the entrance of your dwelling for computer and satellite control purposes.
I recently received a letter from a man who reads the Last Trumpet Newsletter and was going to accept one of these temporary jobs until he found out during orientation that it was a heinous conspiratorial plot. I will not reveal his name, but he informed me that the workers were to stand one foot from the front door of every home and enter the coordinates into a hand-held computerized device. One woman in the orientation class jokingly asked, "What if a person lives in a cave?" The instructor gave the serious answer that she was to go to the entrance of that cave and enter the information. He then said, "There will be no place to hide." The workers were also told that they were not to give any information about their project to anyone or they would be fined and/or jailed! When we realize all of this, we can also better understand why Senator Judd Gregg declined the job of Secretary of Commerce. The Department of Commerce has always been in charge of the U.S. Census. Gregg was told that the Census was being taken away from the Commerce Department and would be under the direct control of White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel!
I am sure we all remember the account in God's Word that tells us how the children of Israel in Egypt were commanded to mark their doors with the blood of the Passover lamb so they would be spared when the death angel passed through Egypt. Now we see Satan trying to mark our doors with the electronic blood of his Beast computer and satellite system. We are not to fear, however, for the blood of Jesus Christ prevails, and the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of our risen Saviour, stands at our doors and watches over us closely. In Revelation 3:20, we read as follows: "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me."
Everything is moving quickly now, and every morning people are waking up to discover that more rights and freedoms have been forfeited. In the state of Wisconsin, a high court, the District 4 Court of Appeals, stated that police can attach GPS units to anyone's automobile without a warrant, cause, or permission! That vehicle is then tracked and watched with perfect timing of every route it takes and every stop it makes. (30)
Resistance to the Obama Administration is rising, however. We know that the state of Texas under Governor Rick Perry, has declared their state to be sovereign and not subject to everything Washington, D.C., is dishing out. The state of South Carolina is now proceeding to do the same thing! (31) In addition to that, on May 5th, 2009, the House members of the state of Oklahoma overrode Governor Brad Henry, who vetoed a resolution to declare Oklahoma a sovereign state! (32) These events are so similar to what happened shortly before the American Civil War! Drastic and amazing things are beginning to happen!
Warnings from the Almighty!
The very creation of God continues to cry out against the sin and rebellion of man. The U.S. Geological Survey reported 267 significant earthquakes with a magnitude of 4.0 and above within the past 30 days. Violent storms continue to race across our nation, and freak weather continues to happen with greater frequency and intensity. God does speak through His creation!
Our sinful nation is also troubled with horrifying fires on the East and West coasts. In late April, a terrible fire broke out in the area of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The roaring flames scorched more than twenty-four square miles and destroyed many homes. (33) In early May 2009 during the time of the full moon, horrifying fires broke out in the area of Santa Barbara, California. Many expensive homes were destroyed, and 5,400 homes were under mandatory evacuation orders. Fourteen thousand people were forced out of and away from their homes by the raging flames and billows of thick smoke. This fire was called the Jesusita Fire because of its location in California. (34) It appears that warnings of impending judgment upon our sin-laden nation are from the utmost East to the utmost West. It is even more amazing that the fire in the East happened exactly one week before the occultic witches' sabat of Beltaine (May 1st), and the fire in the West broke out with intensity exactly one week after that infamous day! Furthermore, both of the fires in the extreme east and west of our nation burned near the 33rd parallel of north latitude. That number thirty-three is the most sacred to Freemasonry, which is the very lodge of Lucifer, also called Satan! God is speaking! Is anyone listening?
As if we don't have enough problems, Obama's science advisor has released a statement about a new project to help control the supposed "global warming" of the earth. Dr. John Holdren, who is working closely with the President, stated that a potential plan is being made to use geoengineering, which would use technology to attempt to cool the climate and save the planet. One method Dr. Holdren advocates that is being considered by the White House and several other agencies is to "shoot pollution particles into the earth's upper atmosphere to reflect the sun's rays." (35) In reality, the whole global warming concept is a manufactured hoax to be used by the Antichrist. In reality, true scientists are gravely concerned because the sun is rapidly cooling down and is currently at both its dimmest and coolest points since measurements were kept. On April 22nd, BBC News reported that "astronomers are baffled by a quiet sun." (36) In addition to that, the National Geographic News reported on May 4th, 2009, the following headline: "Sun Oddly Quiet -Hints at Next Little Ice Age." (37)
Barack Obama knows as much about true science as I do about piloting a submarine, but he is interested in the stars for another reason. As most readers of this newsletter know, I was once an adept occultic astrologer, and astrology is witchcraft of the first magnitude! In fact, you cannot practice witchcraft without astrology. Here let it be noted that Barack Obama made a speech on the 13th day of May 2009 from the South Lawn of the White House. The speech was regarding health care reform, and during the speech he stated that the Health Care Bill must be on his desk by the last day of July. That day is known in witchcraft as the Eve of Lughnasaid (loo-na-sah), also called the sabat of the harvest of souls. Obama concluded his speech, facing the southern sky where the ecliptic line (or zodiac) is located, with the following words: "We've got to get it done this year, both in the House and in the Senate; and we don't have any excuses; the stars are aligned." (38) This was spoken like a true illuminist!
In closing, I once again sincerely thank all of you who support this end time prophetic ministry. God bless and keep you in the short time that remains. We continue to welcome your prayer requests as our prayer teams are waiting to bring your need to the throne of the Saviour. Grace and peace be unto you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
David J. Meyer
Acknowledgements 01. Reuters News Service, May 1, 2009, by Steve Holland, Washington, D.C. 02. The Washington Post, Apr. 29, 2009, by P. Kane, C. Cillizza & S. Murray, Washington, D.C. 03. WorldNetDaily, Apr. 28, 2009, by Drew Zahn, WorldNetDaily.com. 04. CNN News Service, May 9, 2009, Washington, D.C. 05. The Traverse City Record Eagle, Mar. 31, 2009, Traverse City, MI. 06. NBC News, April 17, 2009, by Jim Iovino, Washington, D.C. 07. The Washington Times, May 6, 2009, by Julia Duin, Washington, D.C. 08. Associated Press, May 5, 2009, by Ben Feller, Arlington, VA. 09. CBS News Service, Apr. 28, 2009, by Marcia Kramer, New York, NY. 10. The Wall Street Journal, Apr. 18, 2009, by Stu Woo & Sudeep Reddy, New York, NY. 11. Associated Press, May 11, 2009, Washington, D.C. 12. Bloomberg News Service, Apr. 24, 2009, by Elizabeth Hester & Linda Shen, New York, NY. 13. Associated Press, Mar. 20, 2009, by Marcy Gordon, Washington, D.C. 14. Reuters News Service, Apr. 17, 2009, Washington, D.C. 15. Financial Times, Apr. 27, 2009, by John Reed & Bernard Simon. 16. Reuters News Service, May 7, 2009, New York, NY. 17. Reuters News Service, Apr. 24, 2009, by Alistair Bell & Noel Randewich, Mexico City, Mexico. 18. Associated Press, Apr. 27, 2009, Mexico City, Mexico. 19. Associated Press, Apr. 25, 2009, by Frank Jordans, Geneva, Switzerland. 20. Reuters News Service, Apr. 25, 2009, by Maggie Fox, Washington, D.C. 21. ABC News Service, May 6, 2009, WBEV Radio, Beaver Dam, WI. 22. CIDRAP News Service, Jan. 14, 2004, by Robert Roos. 23. The Kansas City Star, Oct. 17, 2008, by Alan Bavley, Kansas City, MO. 24. CBS News Service, May 12, 2009, by Elise Finch, Washington, D.C. 25. WorldNetDaily, Apr. 12, 2009, Washington, D.C. 26. The Washington Times, May 5, 2009, by Audrey Hudson, Washington, D.C. 27. Light House Trails Research, http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com. 28. Ibid. 29. WorldNetDaily, May 5, 2009, by Bob Unruh, http://www.worldnetdaily.com. 30. The Chicago Tribune, May 7, 2009, by Ryan J. Foley, Madison, WI. 31. Politico, May 12, 2009, by Andy Barr, Washington, D.C. 32. NewsOK, May 5, 2009, by Michael McNutt, Oklahoma City, OK. 33. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Apr. 24, 2009, AP, North Myrtle Beach, SC. 34. NBC News Service, May 7, 2009, by S. Weber, J. Noyes, O. Ebright, J. Lloyd & B. Buck, Los Angeles, CA. 35. Cox News Service, Apr. 9, 2009, by Seth Borens, AP, Washington, D.C. 36. BBC News Service, Apr. 22, 2009, by Pallab Ghosh, London, England, U.K. 37. National Geographic News, May 4, 2009, by Anne Minard, Washington, D.C. 38. ABC News Service, May 13, 2009, by Yunji de Nies, Ann Compton & Karen Travers, Washington, D.C.