Thursday, January 30, 2014

Kerry's Peace Plan: Divide Jerusalem, Recognize Jewish State

Wednesday, January 29, 2014 | Ryan Jones , Israel Today

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US Secretary of State John Kerry is about to bring over six months of frantic shuttle diplomacy to a climax by presenting a firm American proposal for peace between Israel and the Palestinians.

That according to New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman, who is close to the Obama Administration.

"After letting the two sides fruitlessly butt heads for six months, [Kerry's] now planning to present a U.S. framework that will lay out what Washington considers the core concessions Israelis and Palestinians need to make for a fair, lasting deal," Friedman wrote on Tuesday.

As the columnist explains it, the US plan sees Israel withdrawing from Judea and Samaria in stages, but not from 100 percent of the territory. Large Jewish settlement blocs would be left intact and under Israeli sovereignty, and Israel would compensate by surrendering some of its territory to the Palestinian Authority.

Jerusalem would be divided, and the eastern half recognized as the capital of "Palestine." Speaking of recognition, Israel would be explicitly acknowledged as the nation state of the Jewish people.

The proposal does not allow for the mass entry of so-called "Palestinian refugees" into Israel.

For those familiar with the conflict, as Friedman purports to be, the proposal and his eager approach to it are baffling.

How many times does Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas have to reject the notions of recognizing a Jewish state or relinquishing a Palestinian "right of return" before America will take him at his word?

Abbas has staked his political legacy on achieving a "right of return" for Palestinians to Israel-proper, and has been so adamant about never calling Israel a "Jewish state" that it is somewhat unreasonable for anyone to expect him to change his mind now.

And those aren't the only insurmountable obstacles.

Kerry and Friedman seem to be forgetting about Hamas, which on Tuesday issued a statement reiterating that it would never accept a two-state solution or give up even "one inch of the land of Palestine," which the group considers to include the entirety of the Land of Israel.

Nor can Hamas' extreme positions be ignored, as the group has demonstrated its ability to win Palestinian elections and ascend to the highest positions of power, be it through democratic processes or force of arms.

There is also the matter of Israeli Arabs who would become Palestinian citizens as part of the proposed land swaps. Almost to a man, Israeli Arabs and their representatives in the Knesset have rejected such an outcome.

Last but not least, Israeli Jews have made it abundantly clear in surveys carried out over the past two decades that they will not accept the re-division of their ancient and sacred capital. Any prime minister who agrees to such a concession is very likely to be voted out of power before he or she has a chance to actually implement the agreement.

Why Kerry or Friedman believe that this latest proposal will lead to a different result than those that came before it is beyond me.

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Love For His People Editor's Note: Coincidence how the USA Obama Administration is trying to divide Jerusalem, in their "peace plan" efforts, as the record winter takes it's economic toll on our country? No one who attempts to divide the Lord's land will go untouched themselves. Biblical promise. Steve Martin

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

POLL: Anti-Semitism Remains Problem in Europe

Tuesday, January 28, 2014 | Yossi Aloni ISRAEL TODAY

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Anti-Semitism

Think anti-Semitism, the kind that gave rise to the Holocaust, is dead? Think again.

A survey conducted in Poland on the occasion of International Holocaust Remembrance Day revealed 63 percent of locals believe that there is a Jewish conspiracy to control the banking system and the world media.

On the religious front, 18 percent said the Jews were responsible for the death of Christ, and 13 percent of those surveyed still believe that Jews use Christian blood for ritual purposes.

Today, anti-Semitism is most often masked as hostility toward the State of Israel, and that played into the poll, as well, with 21 percent of respondents saying that Israel treats the Palestinians just as Hitler treated the Jews of Europe. Thirty-five percent said Israel would stop at nothing to achieve its nefarious goals.

The survey was conducted by the Center for Prejudice Research in Warsaw among a representative sampling of Polish citizens. The findings were presented to the Polish parliament by MP Michael Bilvic.

Bilvic noted that while anti-Semitic sentiment among Polish Christians was down, Jew-hatred in general had not decreased. He and many other parliamentarians agreed that education against anti-Semitism must be improved.

The problem is even more pronounced in other European countries.

The past year has seen a significant rise in the number of anti-Semitic incidents in Greece, especially those perpetrated by neo-Nazi groups. Among the incidents in Greece were statements by prominent figures denying that the Holocaust ever happened, and desecration of Jewish tombs and monuments. This new wave of anti-Semitism in Greece has been fuelled equally by the recently disbanded Golden Dawn party and leaders of the Greek Orthodox Church who continue to use anti-Semitic rhetoric and arguments as a matter of course.

In Hungary, the number of anti-Semitic incidents doubled from 2012, with violent assaults on local Jews, desecration of Jewish cemeteries, public anti-Semitic chants and the burning of the Israeli flag.

Yaakov Hagouel of the World Zionist Organization called the fact that Jews are still facing this level of hatred "appalling."

"In recent years, we have witnessed a significant increase in anti-Semitism in Europe," Hagouel explained. He called on "Jewish communities around the world and the Israeli government to work together with European governments to eradicate this phenomenon."

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Please vote in Guardian poll on Scarlett Johansson's links to Israeli company - UK and worldwide Jan. 29, 2014

mIh3D

#NoScarJo: should Oxfam sever ties with Scarlett Johansson?

Scarlett Johansson's deal with an Isreali company working in the West Bank could hurt Oxfam's brand. Should the NGO end its relationship with the actress? Take the poll

iza Anyangwe
Guardian Professional, Tuesday 28 January 2014 12.16 EST

Scarlett Johansson's advertising deal with SodaStream International Ltd has caused internal tensions at Oxfam. Should she stay or should she go? Photograph: Rex

Just seven days after Oxfam was last in the news with its report on growing global inequality, the international NGO is making headlinesagain but for very different reasons.

It seems its celebrity ambassador, Scarlett Johansson, has signed an advertising deal with SodaStream International Ltd, an Isreali company operating in the West Bank. According to the blog, The Electronic Intifada, the move has caused an "internal revolt" at Oxfam and the organisation's own website alludes to the conflicted position it finds itself in:

"We are proud of our relationship with Scarlett Johansson [and] Oxfam respects the independence of our ambassadors. However Oxfam believes that businesses that operate in settlements further the ongoing poverty and denial of rights of the Palestinian communities that we work to support. Oxfam is opposed to all trade from Israeli settlements, which are illegal under international law."

Despite the high profile of both the NGO and its celebrity ambassador, this would just be internal politics, under unique circumstances – except, of course, it isn't. Development researcher, Jonathan Glennie, tweeted as he shared the Electronic Intifada blog: "Was same when I was at @savechildrenuk."

And there are other examples of staff concerned about what affliation with a particular celebrity could mean. A Unicef officer in New Delhi isquoted in the Guardian as saying: "It's bad enough having to accommodate celebrities and their entourage in the aftermath of every major humanitarian disaster. But when most people think of the UN now they think of Angelina Jolie on a crusade, not the work that goes on in the field after humanitarian disasters or on a long-term preventive level."

While there is no doubt that celebrity endorsement yields financial dividends for NGOs and can raise the profile of a cause, it can also infuriate staff and create tensions with communities in which the organisation works. So what should Oxfam do? Take our poll and tell us your experiences or thoughts on celebrities and NGOs in the comment threads below.

Click here: The Guardian Website poll

Bill Hamon Prophesies Second Phase of God's 'Prophetic Breath'

Watch video: Charisma Video with Bill Hamon

Bishop Bill Hamon, founder of Christian International, delivers a prophetic word for 2014.

Find out what the Lord put on the prophetic pioneer's heart for what many are calling the Year of the Open Door.

Bishop Hamon : 2014 Word of the Lord from CIMN-TV on Vimeo.

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Our daughter Hannah Elizabeth is 30!

Hannah Elizabeth Martin

January 29, 2014

30 years old!!!

Hannah Elizabeth Martin - 1991

Thirty years ago this day,

On the 29th of January;

From heaven above He sent

His Hannah Elizabeth to us.

Since that first day in our home,

She has been a delight in our eyes.

Smiling, laughing, sharing her words,

A mighty woman of God for sure.

We bless our daughter Hannah

With His guidance and His love,

As she raises her own family now

With passion and heart from above.

Happy birthday Hannah!

We love you so much!

Keep seeking the Lord and His,

For all those you touch!

With our eternal love,

Dad & Mom

Hannah, Christen and Zoe - 2008

Hannah and nephew Jensen - 2008

Hannah, Josh, Ben & Christen - 2010

Jonathan and Hannah - 2012

Hannah & Jonathan - 2013 engagement

Oct. 12, 2013

Hannah and Dad

Wedding Day - Oct. 12, 2013

Hannah 2014

Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Most Watched Movie in History Re-Mastered, Set to Open in Theaters

Most Watched Movie in History Re-Mastered, Set to Open in Theaters; Watch 'The JESUS Film' Trailer (VIDEO)

BY ALEX MURASHKO , CHRISTIAN POST REPORTER

January 28, 2014

(PHOTO: THE JESUS FILM PROJECT)

Viewed billions of times and serving as a global Christian outreach for more than three decades, "JESUS," the most watched film in history, has been re-mastered in high-definition with a complete new musical score in Dolby 5.1 surround sound. Also, in honor of its 35th anniversary, the re-titled "The JESUS Film" is scheduled for select theatrical showings beginning in March, according to project promoters.

The high-definition film will be available on Blu-ray, DVD and digital format in retail and online stores nationwide April 1 through the partnership of Cinedigm and Mission Home Video.

"When the original JESUS film was released 35 years ago, it was ahead of its time," said Dr. Erick Schenkel, executive director of The JESUS Film Project®, a ministry of Cru. "Yet, while the film has introduced billions of individuals around the world to the person of Jesus, few in the U.S. have ever seen it. We believe this new re-mastered version will give audiences an accurate picture of who Jesus is and why individuals around the world have chosen to follow Him, shown with production values they have come to expect."

"The JESUS Film" (watch official trailer below) has been officially recognized by The Guinness Book of World Records as the "Most Translated Film" in history, and is now available in 1,197 languages. Additionally, more than 200 million individuals worldwide have indicated a decision to follow Jesus after viewing "The JESUS Film."

The story of the film's impact over the past 35 years will be shown through an exclusive new short feature narrated by actor Ernie Hudson and available on the re-mastered Blu-ray and DVD. Each disc will include "The JESUS Film" in a total of eight languages – English, Spanish, Mandarin, French, Vietnamese, German, Korean and Arabic.

"The JESUS film" was created by The JESUS Film Project, a ministry of Cru, following founder Bill Bright's vision to take the message of Jesus to the world through video.

During the film's restoration, each of its 173,000 frames were individually and painstakingly re-touched and re-colored, and new sound effects were added, according to project promoters. The quality of the re-mastered, high-definition version of "The JESUS Film" is equal, if not greater, to other re-released classic films from similar eras, including "The Ten Commandments."

"Unlike other religious films, which contain graphic violence or do not adhere to Scripture, 'The JESUS Film' script is taken directly from the Bible and shown in a cinematic style suitable for all ages," Schenkel said. "The new greatly enhanced video and sound quality elevates the emotional viewing experience of this 35-year-old film to a new level, making it fresh and appealing to a generation that may not be aware of who Jesus is."

In addition to being made available in retail and online stores, The JESUS Film Project has joined Cinedigm and Mission Home Video with Tugg, Inc., to offer a minimum of 35 weekly theatrical viewings in honor of 35 years beginning in March. For only the cost of a ticket, any individual can choose to host a one-time showing in his or her local theater.

For information about The JESUS Film high-definition release and theatrical showings in available localities, visit http://www.JESUSFilmHD.com.

BREAKING ISRAEL NEWS: IAF Allegedly Carries Out Covert Airstrike on Syrian Missile System

IAF Allegedly Carries Out Covert Airstrike on Syrian Missile System

Posted by: Lea Speyer January 28, 2014 , 11:31 am BREAKING ISRAEL NEWS

“No weapon that is fashioned against you shall succeed, and you shall confute every tongue that rises against you in judgment. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord and their vindication from me, declares the Lord.” (Isaiah 54:17)

“Sufa” planes, also known as F-16I, flying in formation. (Photo: IDF)

Evidence is growing suggesting that the Israeli Air Force (IAF) carried out a secret aerial strike against missile launching sites in the coastal town of Latakia, Syria. The Russian made missile launchers were used by forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar Asshad. Israeli officials are neither confirming nor denying the reports of the secret mission.

Lebanese media reported the sighting of Israeli aircraft in Lebanese airspace shortly before loud explosions rocked Latakia. IAF aircraft would have to pass through Lebanese airspace in order to reach targets on the Syrian coastal plain. The NNA Lebanese Ministry of Information published a final report stating: “On Sunday at 10:45 pm, two Israeli war planes violated Lebanese airspace off west Batroun, executed circular flight over the Lebanese regions; and then left at 11:55pm, off west Nakoura village.”

Israel has been closely monitoring the situation in Syria since the beginning of the civil war. Assad has aligned himself with several terror organizations, including the Lebanese based Hezbollah and al-Qaeda. Israel has made it clear that it would not tolerate the transfer of weapons from Assad to Hezbollah and would do all in its power to halt any threats posed to Israeli security.

(Photo: Google Maps)

The S-300 surface-to-air missile system was first sent to Assad by Russia in the spring of 2013. Many view this move as a tactic by Russia to deter the United States and other Western powers to intervene in the Syrian Civil War. The arms transfer agreement stipulated that Assad was not allowed to legally transfer the weapons to a third party. However, Israel does not think that the Syrians will hold to their side of the agreement.

The S-300 system, should they fall into the hands of Hezbollah, would allow the terrorist organization to shoot missiles much further into Israeli territory. Cities such as Haifa, Tel Aviv, and Jerusalem would be in the danger zone should Hezbollah have the capabilities provided by the S-300 system.

Last November, Israel conducted a similar airstrike on Latakia, a stronghold for Assad, and targeted missiles and other weaponry being stored in the area. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made clear to Russian President Vladimir Putin that Israel vehemently opposes any weaponry system reaching Syia.

Leadership Through Love - now in the hands of the publisher

My third book, entitled "Leadership Through Love", is now in the hands of the publisher. It should be out in printed form and available as an e-book in a few weeks, through Amazon, our Love For His People office and other outlets.

I appreciate those who have endorsed it, and for my son Ben for his great artwork again.

Having worked in the administration realm for over 35 years now, I trust the Lord will use this book to encourage others in leadership, those being led, and anyone else who cares about having good relationships in church, ministry and marketplace office organizations.

Thanks,

Steve Martin
Author

Here are some of the endorsements:

In a rough and tumble world marred by the superficial and the phony, where nothing can be counted on, Steve Martin maps out a straight-line path for Christian organizations. In reality, it's a book on how to steward the factors that too often get side-tracked when navigating a significant call of God. It's a down-to-earth manual of wisdom needed to enable Christian organizations to keep their eye on the big picture, while building a firm foundation to enable it to happen. Steve writes from the stance of one who has served in key administrative roles in a number of key ministries. Every ministry head and administrator will profit from this straight forward operating wisdom.

Morris Ruddick
Entrepreneur, Author, Minister, Consultant and Business Coach

What a great practical book for administration. I have watched Steve oversee several ministries. I know of no better administrator than my friend, Steve Martin. I highly recommend that you read this book.

Dr. Peter Wyns, President, Christians for Messiah Ministries and Pastor of Antioch International Church, grandson of Derek Prince.

Steve - I read your excellent book! I want to share this: I've known Steve now for several years. He's a man of faith and a man of action! Both are desired in true men of God. Steve is a manager - management is something he knows and can help you with. His future may be in ever-expanding ways, but he can help you manage. Read this book intently - honor the Lord by letting it wash over you and help you become the Manager that God intends you to be. And Steve, thanks for the book - thanks for your honesty and openness! Amen and blessing!”

Robbie Phillips, Founder, Present Word Ministries, Columbia, SC

Every now and then you have the privilege to get to know someone whose character and life radiate honesty, sincerity, loyalty and Christian love. Steve Martin is that type of person. I first met Steve at a Messianic conference in Charlotte, NC, in 2007. One of the things I quickly noticed about Steve was how "approachable" he was. Even though he was the US Director of an international ministry, he still had time to talk with people at the conference and demonstrated a genuine interest in helping to bring about a network of Believers, as well as area groups and churches, for the purpose of serving the Lord more effectively. As the years have passed I've come to realize just how deep Steve's roots of love and service for the Lord are.

It has been exciting to walk with Steve as he's "stepped out of the boat" and moved ahead with the vision the Lord gave him for LOVE FOR HIS PEOPLE - a ministry that helps connect Believers around the world with the people of Israel. He is a husband, father and grandfather. Steve, and his wife Laurie, serve as leaders of the Ahava Love Band, a group of singers and musicians who provide praise and worship at area assemblies. Whether you call him Messianic, a part of the "one new man", or a "Jewish Rooter", if there's anyone who knows how to demonstrate "Leadership Through Love", it's Steve Martin.

Curtis Loftin Founder, Beit Yeshua Lincolnton, NC

Just finished reading Steve Martin’s new book, “Leadership Through Love” - Steve’s heart of goodness and faithfulness to His God shines on every page. Of great importance is the practical hands-on wisdom that comes from actually leading through love, giving integrity to the words that are written. Steve’s sense of humor always kind of sneaks up on me, and I found myself chuckling so many times at his stories and honest, from-the-heart insights! It is the mandate of all of us who follow the One called Faithful and True to complete the work that our Father has given us, and Steve’s book will shine the light on how to do just that, whether you are an administrator or leader in the secular marketplace or in volunteer or paid ministry positions. Loving leadership – a high calling – Steve’s done it, and it shows in this book!

Cathy Hargett, Founder/Director, Highway to Zion Ministries

I had the pleasure of working on an almost daily basis with Steve Martin for many years while he served several Christian ministries. While Steve had the control of whether we worked together, he always made me feel we were working as a team with a common reward in serving God. He enjoyed my family as I did his. He is intelligent, thoughtful, patient to the extent he could be, a good listener, open to new ideas, joyful and passionate about serving the Lord. The projects may be over long ago but not the bond we hold to this day.

George Payne Write Hand Publishing Andalusia, Alabama

Thanks for the opportunity to read and review this book. I enjoyed it and thought it had some really great insights. I wish I had this back in my "corporate" days. You are a good writer too. In a world filled with an ever increasing list of ‘how to’ books, Steve Martin has provided one which clearly sets itself apart from the rest. He presents a concise look at the art/science of management and leadership based not on academia but on real life experiences founded on God’s Word and powered by the Holy Spirit. Based on his vast personal experiences in leadership, reinforced by insights received from others, Steve provides truly practical instruction in how to lead and manage an effective organization whether it consists of one or one thousand people. If you are a manager, leader, or hope to one day become one, this book is a must read.

Dr. Richard E. Tompkins, President, Explore Truth Ministries. SC

Contents List

Thursday, January 30, 2014

Kerry's Peace Plan: Divide Jerusalem, Recognize Jewish State

Kerry's Peace Plan: Divide Jerusalem, Recognize Jewish State

Related Stories

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Wednesday, January 29, 2014

POLL: Anti-Semitism Remains Problem in Europe

POLL: Anti-Semitism Remains Problem in Europe

Related Stories

Topics:

Please vote in Guardian poll on Scarlett Johansson's links to Israeli company - UK and worldwide Jan. 29, 2014

#NoScarJo: should Oxfam sever ties with Scarlett Johansson?

Bill Hamon Prophesies Second Phase of God's 'Prophetic Breath'

Bill Hamon Prophesies Second Phase of God's 'Prophetic Breath'

Our daughter Hannah Elizabeth is 30!

Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Most Watched Movie in History Re-Mastered, Set to Open in Theaters

Most Watched Movie in History Re-Mastered, Set to Open in Theaters; Watch 'The JESUS Film' Trailer (VIDEO)

BREAKING ISRAEL NEWS: IAF Allegedly Carries Out Covert Airstrike on Syrian Missile System

IAF Allegedly Carries Out Covert Airstrike on Syrian Missile System

Leadership Through Love - now in the hands of the publisher

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