Why I Agree with the Mayor of New York

Many of my readers will be very surprised to know that I, for once, agree with New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg regarding his decision to bar “clergy” from participating in the tenth anniversary memorial of the September 11^th attacks.

In the past, I found myself in total disagreement with Mayor Bloomberg on many issues; chief among them is his support of the building of the Cordoba Mosque at Ground Zero. Many people saw his unbridled support of that project as distasteful at best and expedient at worst. After all, the mayor is doing personal business in many Muslim countries, especially the rich Gulf states. Thus, at least for expediency’s sake, he had to support what many Americans consider to be a sign of triumphalism on the part of Islamists at the very site where 2,753 people, most of them our fellow citizens, died in the name of Islam.

But when it comes to not having any “clergy” at the tenth commemoration of that day of infamy, I believe Mayor Bloomberg did the right thing even though I am sure we see his decision from very different viewpoints. Most likely, his reason for barring “clergy” from the event is fear that he may offend one group or another.

However, the way I and many other faithful Christians see it is as an act of mercy – sparing us the spectacle of bundling all religions together as if they are worshipping one god or as if all these gods are equal. Indeed, Mayor Rudy Giuliani’s “Prayer for America” memorial service, held 12 days after the 9/11 attacks, was extremely painful for the faithful Christians who watched. It gave the impression that all gods are equal to the one true God – the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Every conceivable group, from Hindus, Buddhists and other non-monotheistic groups (unknown to most Americans) to different Muslim sects, Sikhs, Jewish groups, and Christian denominations of all stripes, was given an opportunity to “pray.” Tragically, every representative of a Christian denomination, but one, judiciously avoided mentioning the unmentionable – Jesus Christ – out of political correctness. There was only one elderly Armenian Orthodox bishop who dared to utter the name of our Savior, the Son of the living God.

From the very beginning in Sinai, our heavenly Father warned Moses before entering the Promised Land that His people must not fall into syncretism by bundling and muddling their worship with the Canaanites, who worshiped all sorts of gods that were not gods at all. Yet God’s people just couldn’t help themselves and kept on mixing Yahweh with all of the “non-God” gods. Year after year, the prophets continuously warned them against that travesty, until finally, when they did not heed the warning, judgment came in the form of the Babylonian exile.

Sadly, America is committing the same abomination of syncretism – mixing the God of the Founding Fathers with all those other “non–God”-gods. Could judgment be around the corner? We will wait and see.

But for now, special thanks to Mayor Bloomberg for sparing the faithful Christians from seeing and watching a syncretistic fest on the 10^th anniversary of the 9/11 tragedy.

Comments

[Mr. Turk B., Washington]

Well-written article, Mr. Yousset. Mixing a cornucopia of false religions would neither glorify God, nor satisfy those radical groups wanting to destroy our Christian heritage which at times was neither loving, nor fair as history shows. Text books have been rewritten to change the truth into relativism. There will be no real peace until Satan is cast into the lake of fire, along with all pluralistic cults.

[Belinda]

God is sad that our country He so richly blessed is being destroyed by the evil that we know comes from the devil. How we allowed this to happen in my lifetime (60 years) is beyond me and happened with me standing aghast as most God fearing Christians are or should be. We have proven we have become a nation of wimps. We must take up our armor and fight the good fight for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!!!

Better get off the couch and PRAY IN JESUS HOLY NAME AMERICA!!! My only hope is Jesus will come quickly and save us from our apathy and greed!
Amen
Servant and Daughter of the ONE true King of all Kings!!

[James Carson]

I don't agree, the families that suffered this horrible event should have the right to Prayer at Ground Zero as far as clergy, doesn' t matter. This is a place to gather and remember those that perished.

[Gary W. Kelly Sr.]

As a non-Theocracy Republic established by Christians and founded upon Christianity, I would have liked you to lead a prayer, recognizing all religions that are free to worship in America, but still pray in Jesus Name, because of those Christian foundations, without apology or compromising of faith - in Jesus Name and the Republic for which it stands. I wonder what the founders would think, considering things like Franklin's speech to Constitutional Convention on June 28, 1787 to end a deadlock crisis.

[Kristin]

There will be prayer regardless. The Christians that pray will be heard by our ONE TRUE FATHER. I was angry about this, but i can see Michael's point and his commentary is a guiding light. Thank you!

[Lori]

James, The families can certainly gather and pray quietly on their own. But I agree with Dr. Youssef - I cringe at the thought of lining up God next to all the gods as though they were equal.

[Amy]

I totally agree with Pastor Youssef. True Christians should not mix with other religions who worship pagan gods. We worship YAHWEH the only true God and one day all the non gods will have to bow to Him.

[Jane Scroggins]

Really good point! I do get tired of the "we are all one" nonsense. I would rather we had clergy with the courage and conviction to stand up for their faith. If not I guess I would rather they just all stay away.

[charlie]

Remember how political goons tricked the King of Babylon into outlawing prayer to any other god knowing that Daniel was a faithful prayer to Jehovah. If we fail to halt this religious landslide from our foundations, we may soon feel the heat of lion's breath on our necks.

[M. Melville]

I agree with M. Youseff! I also believe this applies to our schools. We have become a mixing bowl of religions/beliefs in this nation and if they were to allow prayer in school we might have to pray with the buddhist or muslims or ???? They can never stop us from praying to our heavenly Father as they have no control over our minds or spirits. We can pray anytime/anywhere thankfully! In Jesus' Love!

[Moe]

I was at first upset with Mayor Bloomberg, e-mailing him to express my disappointment. Days later, the point Dr. Youssef has made came suddenly to my mind, although I can't agree that Mayor Bloomberg in any way, shape or form has done 'the right thing.' Judging from what Mayor Bloomberg either supports or rejects, it appears as though he does not recognize God in his personal life, a man who is easily able to accept and further profoundly offensive sins on a grand scale. America as the 'land of the free' is a pluralistic society--a nation of diverse faiths and 'gods' and home to an atheistic population--everyone free to choose their own path. If Mayor Bloomberg's decision is indeed based upon a fear of offending members of 'warring faiths', if you will, his 'safe decision' impresses me as a dispicably cowardly act, even while it may indeed be merciful to Christians not wishing to hear long blasphemous harangues by false prophets serving the many false gods of New Sodom. In my opinion, the root problem is that citizens have not voted for and installed genuine Christian leaders who will know and do 'the right thing' according to the one true God of the Bible, ending with no spiritual dimension at all.

[Bd-Michigan]

Very good point. I have been reading the Daily Bible in Chronological order- and it seems there is a parallel with what happened to Israel when they worship other Gods, their downfall and what is happening today in America. It has been very helpful to me and has given me a better understanding, but I have to say it is rather eerie at times. Looking in the past and seeing the future?

For those who are interested check this event out scheduled on September 11:

September 11: “Wake Up Call” national webcast, hosted by Anne Graham Lotz

Anne Graham Lotz is Billy Grahams' daughter. I can't think of a better way to remember 9/11.

[Carol M.]

I was very upset to hear that God was once again being left out, and prayer would not be allowed at this event. I even sent the Mayor an e-mail asking him to reconsider his decision and allow prayer. However, Michael makes a very good and valid point, one which I did not think of at the time. I too am so tired of the "all inclusiveness" of religions. There is only ONE TRUE God. The God of love and mercy so great that He sent His only Son, Jesus, to die in our place. All that is required of us is that we accept His incredible gift. I do believe, however, that the time is growing ever shorter and our Almighty God's patience and mercy will soon end. However, no one knows the time or date. Only God knows that. It's never over until it's over, so we need to stay on our knees and stay strong and unbending amongst all the political correctness gone amuck no matter how much pressure is put upon us. Lean on Jesus. He is our Rock and our Strength. He is our Stronghold.

Thank you Michael, for once again speaking the truth unashamed and unabashedly. My prayers are with you and your family constantly. Stay strong, dear Pastor. Stay strong.

[Erick Reinstedt]

Thanks for the post. It comes at the same time I'm (as a pastor) being asked to participate in a World Day of Prayer on the same platform with heads of other religions. I've tried to explain why I won't do it (I don't want to give an appearance of legitimacy to the other religions when I believe Jesus is the only way), but it keeps being said that not agreeing to is not loving or mingling with the others, and that if we don't, who will show them His love? I have tried to explain that I would love and help any one of them, and that I see a major difference between helping and loving them and serving them as opposed to sharing a stage with their leaders. One is laying myself down to serve them and love them and show them His love, the other is implicitly saying that their prayers to their God are of the same validity as prayers to the Father through Christ. Of course, this screams of exclusiveness and arrogance to those who don't believe the Bible---but we aren't the ones who say He is the only way, He does. So, the attacks come, but that is OK. We've been warned they will. And we continue to love them, be there for them, serve them, and lay down our lives for them . . . but I don't believe that we can imply, as leadership, by our joint appearances, that there are multiple true gods or ways. I believe it would only feed the already growing "tolerance" trend where everyone's way is seen as right for them. Our God looked, and there was nothing, and He spoke, and there was a universe. We do not need to apologize for a God as mighty and holy as that, and yet a God who would love us so much He would then step into His own Creation and die at its hands to return it to Him. To in any way imply that there are multiple paths other than Jesus is to mock the cross and death of His Son---do we really believe that He would have done that if there was another way? I believe that Jesus and Paul give us the model---they never compromised their words or claims or gave any appearance of legitimacy to other claims, and they, at the same time, laid down their own lives and plans to show love to even the ones beating them. May we only be close to the same.

[Wesley G. Vaughn]

I agree with you on the issue of sycretism. There is a world of difference between this and discussing - even debating - our varying points of view. We may say that we hold certain moral or social values, which others also hold. But it is quite another thing to give the appearance of "one god," especally on a public platform, more especially when there is such a wide gap as among totally different "gods."

Then there is the perversion of "tolerance" by the politcally correct. "Tolerance" means allowing or putting up with something you do not approve of or are not in agreement with. It does NOT mean condoning or approving of or agreeing with a point of view or a practice or lifestyle. When the dictionary changes the definition of "tolerance," I definitely WILL NOT agree with it. When it comes to other gods, tolerance does not - should not - mean saying, in words or action, "You're so right, brother."

[Karen Faulkner of Tracy, CA]

Hello and thank you for appreciating the voice of a fellow believer in Christ. I have always found your sermons, books, teachings uncompromising and very challenging. The more I grow in my walk with Christ, the more I am able to discern the lies and deceptions of this fallen world. I am by no means perfect in my walk but I am faithful in my determination to know the Truth and share the Truth. I have learned so much since that fateful day of 9/11. I am appalled that American Christians are ashamed and afraid to say the name of Jesus. Even in my own circle of believers, I find myself standing alone on the one simple fact that Jesus is the ONLY way to Heaven. Dr. Michael Youssef please continue, as I know you will, to bring light into this dark world.

[C. Ryba]

I disagree..................let the TRUE God's WORD be heard.................to HIM be the glory!! The lost will not stop MY mouth from proclaiming His Word.

[Mamacub]

Thank you for helping me see this in a different way. God is so good....all the time! And you know, most Christians have special services at their churches for 9/11. I know I will be attending one and we WILL be praying in Jesus' Name.

God Bless America!

[Pastor Bill Vogt]

Dr. Youssef,

Thanks for your insight. You have changed my position on this issue with a well thought out article. You are absolutely right. There is nothing to be gained by being there and not being able to stand for the truth. I agree that "tolerance" is one major problem today. No seems to be able to make a statement and then stand up to when criticism comes. There is nothing wrong in having a strong opinion based on the Word of God, but then don't weasel away from it.

[Sue G]

I too thank you Dr. Youssef for your insightfulness. I had also emailed in a campaign regarding clergy not being allowed but did not think my position all the way through. I agree that we MUST stand under the Lordship of our Savior, Christ Jesus and not give in to tolerance and acceptance of many "ways to God".
May Christ's name be raised and praised!

[Joe]

Hello Michael,

I think you are right on, and that this is a very insightful article. Especially your main argument :

However, the way I and many other faithful Christians see it is as an act of mercy – sparing us the spectacle of bundling all religions together as if they are worshipping one god or as if all these gods are equal. ... It gave the impression that all gods are equal to the one true God – the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

With that being said, I'd like to know your thoughts on Glen Beck. It is a real concern for me to see so many evangelical Christians who are oblivious to the fact that he is a Mormon, and the Jesus he is talking about is not the same Jesus in the Bible.

I would ask Glen Beck which Jesus? Do you mean the second person of the Trinity, the one who came to earth taking on humanity, fulfilling all the requirements of the law, being fully man and fully God, who then gave Himself on the Cross to pay the penalty for sin... Or do you mean the firstborn spirit-child of the heavenly Father and heavenly Mother. Who then progressed to become a deity in the spirit world? There are radical differences to be explored between what Biblical Christianity teaches about God/Jesus and Mormonism.

God bless Michael...Thank you for your labors in the Lord!

[Brian Matthews]

I agree with Dr. Youseff, but it is a shame that because of this evil desire to mix false religions with Christianity, we Christians have been silenced again. I, like Dr. Youseff, would rather see no prayer at all than to see another mockery of the one true God. But what about prayer at school sporting events and the like? It's just ashamed that we Christian Americans can no longer do the very things that we once took for granted.

[Brenda Kyle]

Clergy at Ground Zero should be as natural on American soil as the Pledge of Allegiance...apple pie, baseball.....oh no wait, all the foreign inhabitants living in this country have the "right" to oppose what we stand for, whhile living under the protections AND freedoms these beleifs created. What happen to the rights of the American Christian? If these people felt as though the beliefs and lifestyles created by these beliefs in their countries of origin were so wonderful....WHY are they here? Why does our government and it's politicians, cater to foreign beliefs? It is all the work of Satan....but he, like all of the other swords drawn against Chriatians and Christianity, will lose. Now let's all bow our heads and pray, in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Just try and stop me....I dare you.

[Lynda D.]

Have read all the comments, agree with Dr. Youseff. Have held the same perspective for some time, though perhaps for a different reason. In the first place, Christians (I am one) are defined much more by who they are (believers in Jesus Christ) than what they do, because the actions are secondary to the belief--actions are evidence of a changed and redeemed heart. Actions of themselves (without belief) are meaningless. "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and ye shall be saved," and "We are not saved by works." Secondly (although I have never read of the ethnic/cultural backgrounds of the Americans who died in the Towers), I am quite sure that there must have been representatives of many religions who lost their lives that day--Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, etc. Even atheists and agnostics! How many of them died without the hope ad assurance of eternal life with Jesus? Therein lies the real tragedy of the day. Thirdly, we are enjoined, as Christians, in so far as it is up to us, to have no quarrel with anyone. From the comments on this 'site, I gather that an ecomunical, "all-in-the-pot-together" collection of 'worshippers' would be offensive and divisive to many people, not just to Christians. (BTW, just askin', isn't Mayor Bloomberg Jewish himself?)

[Theresa Holder]

OMG, then the enemy has won!

"Tragically, every representative of a Christian denomination, but one, judiciously avoided mentioning the unmentionable – Jesus Christ – out of political correctness. There was only one elderly Armenian Orthodox bishop who dared to utter the name of our Savior, the Son of the living God."

The problem here is not that, then we should stop praying in public, The real problem that this shows is that the true church needs to grow a back bone, I remind us of Elijah's show down with the prophets of Baal, I purpose that our God, Yehovah is far greater and stronger than we are giving him credit.

Joel 2:15-18 Blow the trumpet in Zion, sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly. Gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders, gather the children, let the bridegroom go forth of his chamber, and the bride out of her closet. Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, Spare thy people, O Lord and give not your heritage to reproach, that the heathen should rule over them; wherefore should they say among the people, Where is their God? Then will the Lord, be jealous for his land, and pity his people. Yes the Lord will answer and say unto his people, Behold, I will send you corn and wine, and oil, and ye shall be satisfied therewith; and I will no more make you a reproach among the heathen. Hosea 2:21,22 And it shall come to pass in that day, I will hear, says the Lord, I will hear the heavens, and they shall hear the earth; the earth shall hear the corn, the wine and the oil; and they shall hear (the voice of) Jezreel. (The seed/sowing of the El).

I say, let the bride come out of her closet!

[Mark Haines]

Dead on Michael! I too sent an email prompted by the editors of one Christian advocacy and information outlets...yet, I did not feel completely comfortable about sending it. Why? The possible cornucopia of gods and supposed dieties worshipped in our world's over-saturated religions and spiritual focal points that would likely be 'represented this day. Heck, even the worshippers of Satan would have had an argument for being there if you think about it. Never forget...more is done and is accomplished and moves our God (Yahweh), the one and Only God by those that take to their knees in their closets than any inordinate amount of public babbling that would go on in this ceremony if it were allowed. Even though Satan may have or probably prompted the mayor to bring this about I believe our God indeed used Satan (against himself) once again to not profane His Holy name amongst 'other' gods of this age. Our God is a genius folks. He knows the devil's next dastardly move before Satan comes up with the idea. He did it in the Garden. He did it on Mt. Moriah (Calvary) and He will do it again when He gloriously sets His One and Only begotton on Mt. Zion when Jesus returns. Never forget that my brothers and sisters. Hold fast. Hold on. Keep moving forward. Keep looking up. If God doesn't get unfurled at every thing that happens...why should we??? Keep the faith folks...

[stacy]

there should , at least, be the senate chaplan praying. he , at least, prays in a non-denominational way. Those who are of other religions should, at least, be heard also. What if the senate chaplan prays a prayer that includes refernces to all those other religions. Maybe a prayer like Hear us GOD as we pray for our country. We appeal to YOU in the name of whatever way that YOU show YOURSELF to all those who worship in whatever way they do. AMEN. Would that satisfy everyone?

[CYNTHIA L. FINGER]

I totally agree with Dr. Youssef. Very thoughtful and well written article.

[Dennis G.]

The Mayor made his decision, not for the people, but for political reasons. He is an cancerous site on the butt of America. The reason given by the doctor is more reasonable and compelling, but not a sure fire winner. It fails to give an added alternative, which I shall suggest. I would add to the Rememberance Ceremony that afterwards, the various churches and temples of all faiths be open so that the crowds could then finish their respectful observances in prayers and litiature of their own faiths out of respect for those being remembered and for this Nation, that is built on the one foundation, the Constitution of the United States, which recognizes a citizens rights to Freedom of Religion. Such a direction from the Mayor, after the Ceremony, would be appropriate and well thought of. However, Socialists do not view God in a favorable light. Maybe the Mayor could read Mao's red book or Marx's Manifesto. Such readings might not be viewed as politacally correct, but would be better in line with the Progressive Socialist Mentality.

[Cherri L.]

I understand your reasoning Dr. Youssef; however my thinking is that The United States of America was built upon the Foundation of Christianity and the precepts of the Holy Bible. Those of other Cultures and Religions know this full well when they take that step to become American citizens. We in know way should hide or deny our Faith in the one and only true God by succumbing to those who make demands of taking down crosses, displaying the Ten Commandments, or praying in any Public Square. If this so insults them, I don't think they would have come here anyway and I am sure they can find their way back. We have no walls built to keep them in and neither do we force God on them for God does not force either.
As far as the Commemoration of 9/11, I think the Mayor should have the backbone to stand firmly by America's Christian Heritage and invite, as an example, an Evangelist such as the likes of Rev. Billy Graham or his son Franklin Graham or a Pastor and Evangelist such as yourself or many others that I could name. There should be no need for any other representation. Anyone else attending there who believes differently are not forced to pray as we pray or believe as we believe and they have no reason for being offended knowing full well that America is a CHRISTIAN NATION. We need leaders with courage and backbone of Faith in God and our Christian heritage to speak boldly, compassionately, and faithfully with no apologies. Dr. Youssef, I appreciate your ministry so much and thank you for following the call of God so faithfully. God Bless,
Cherri

[AlanP]

Recall that during the 9/11 National Day of Prayer and Remembrance back on September 14, 2001Billy Graham preached the gospel in his message and did not hold back from mentioning Jesus Christ. A transcript is available at http://www.seekgod.ca/billy.htm. Michael, if you permit them, the secular leadership of this country will attempt to marginalize Christianity every opportunity they get. Let us not give in to them.

[Phyllisofical]

Why don't we worry about offending God? He is the One we should be concerned about, not everyone's persuasion. Political correctness is guiding us down the slippery slope of secular humanism.

[Kathy]

Thank you Michael for taking a stand. A HARD one, but it is a logical one. God has said He would not give His glory to another, and to have a Christian clergy stand to pray to our God while the leaders of the false religions pray to Baal would be an INSULT to our God. God was there on 911 bringing many into the kingdom. He is still there, and the absence of clergy will not change that. God bless!

[Morning Glory]

FINALLY! Someone who will stand up and say that OUR one true, loving, divine, mighty Creator of the universe and Savior of the world should NOT be lumped with all the other wanna-be gods!!!! When the Ark of the Covenant was taken from the Israelites and placed in the temple with the fish god, dagon, that false god had to fall on its face before the Amighty. Eventually it broke into pieces. This says to me that if someone prays in any other name other than JESUS CHRIST it is blasphemy. Thank you Bro. Youssef. You have spoken like a prophet of old.

[Jerry Sulwer]

I don’t think Elijah was shy or felt inhibited on Mount Carmel when there was a contest of who the true God was? “If the LORD is God, follow him; but if Baal is God, follow him.” Read 1 Kings 18. Why in the world would Christian shy away from presenting the true Gospel when at any moment if a Christian leader at the 911 ceremony spoke truth in love and presented the Gospel of Jesus Christ unashamedly. Someone might just respond to Christ’s Mercy on the Cross for mankind and accept Him in the mist of darkness. Has our culture deadened the Churches responsibility to speak out boldly about Christ? Check out my new song, “Thief in the Night” at number 4 this week on “Arise Radio” http://www.arise-radio.com/blogs-and-blurbs.php

I am also reminded of Act 17:22 where Paul preached unashamedly at Mars Hill, ‘TO AN UNKNOWN GOD.’ Therefore what you worship in ignorance, this I proclaim to you. We in America are so careful not to offend and think that God cannot be heard in the mist of a conglomeration of many Gods. Why would we position ourselves by thinking that? We might deny the power of God for many to be saved and should allow Jesus to be presented in all situations. Matthew 9:35 Jesus went through all the towns and villages ... to preach and did not limit circumstances and neither did Paul.

[Shirley Moore]

Thanks Michael for being the voice we needed to hear as most of us, including myself, never thought of it that way. Thanks for the boldness to stand and speak in the face of opposition. Keep on being that voice, we desperately need.

[Heidi]

There is only one, true God. Ohhh...but someone may mention that Jesus spent His time with the least of these...and that included those who worshipped false gods. Of course He did! But, he told them the Truth...not tolerance. He told them their gods were false, and that there was only one, true God. If you are inclusive to any false gods (or their teachings), then you have just become tolerant. There is no happy medium. We are so used to watering down the Gospel with half-truths, often promoted by media, emotions, and other false-god worshipping churches/groups, that we feel this need to moderate when there is no moderation necessary. Our one, true God gave us his son, Jesus...who is still alive, and coming for those He knows by name. Guatama (Buddha), Muhammad..they are not coming back. Hindu deities...everything on this planet..they are dying every day. It is up to you to get up the mountain to those false gods. But, because our God is real, and because a True creator is merciful, He has given us the only One who will bring us to Him. He was even generous in that He gave us One Way...rather than a variety. Wouldn't it be difficult for us in our inconsistency and moodiness ,going from one path to the other? We'd never get up that mountain either! I agree, Mr. Youssef. As a daughter of the Most High, I don't care to be slapped in the face by another 'coexist' ceremony.

[Weirdbeard]

Michael Youssef. Wow! SHAME. ON. YOU! I thought you were somebody. You're dead wrong on this. If Bloomberg calls himself a CHRISTian, he's a coward like you. I'd fly Jesus banners all over the place that day. I'd fly them all over NYC every day of the year.
I'm surprised islam isn't outlawed in this country by now. It should be. If you're a CHRISTian, a CHRISTian should know we are to proclaim the Good News throughout the world. The end of Matt 28. We are to do so without fear of man. Fear God! Do not fear man who can destroy the body, but fear Him who can destroy both the body & the soul.
My brother is a muslim. I tell him about Jesus. He knows about Jesus but refuses. He gets angry because I tell him of Jesus. No surprise there. If he only read his koran he'd know that in the end days that the rocks will cry out, "Muslim! There is a Jew/CHRISTian hiding behind me! Come & cut his head off!" IF you're a muslim & call yourself tolerant, you're not. Your religion calls for my death. My religion calls for me to love you. I will ask when that day comes that my brother be the one to cut my head off. Hopefully that will make him in my last moment realize his mistake.
Bloomberg should only allow CHRISTians & Jews into this affair. Them & the 1st responders. He's a coward as is Youssef. I will make sure Youssef knows this & i will make sure CHRISTian radio knows this too.
Weirdbeard

[Pu'vi]

To all brothers and sisters who are saved by the blood of the Lamb of God of Israel, Yah'shua haMashiakh (known as Jesus the Messiah), greeting and shalom (peace of the heart)!

God willing, Dr. Youssef will allow me to use his platform/blog to pray that God will use YOU to bring His prophecies to fruition. You know Mordecai told his niece, and thus to each of us, God's adopted sons and daughters, Jews and Gentiles, "You are born for such a time as this." The enemy of God wants to prove that God cannot keep His Words, and force His people to not keep their covenant re: circumcision of their sons.

Therefore, if you agree with me as you read the following, please do your part...

1) We must pray before 9/11/11, that our Father will be glorified and the families of 911 will be honored not otherwise where true Yah'shua followers and God's chosen people, the Jews be demonized by the likes of Muslim brotherhood. Mayor Bloomberg already dishonored 911 Families by agreeing to build a Mosque at the very site where their beloved died at their hands. These are people who celebrated on their streets afterwards for the world to see while 911 Families' loved ones were forced to jump out of the Twin Towers! I disagree with Michael Youssef; "no clergy" does not mean letting Christians avoid taking part of the abomination of "syncretism". "No clergy" means, no one is allowed to pray in any name except... the perpetrators of those suicidal airplanes radical Muslims. Just like in America, they teach "tolerance". They mean "tolerance" to everything that is ungodly, homosexuality, human trafficking, abortions but not "tolerance" to Biblical values: integrity, life, love, compassion, forgiveness, mercy, humility, truth, peace, goodness, kindness, joy, patience, faithfulness, self-control, hope in the God of Israel, allegiance to the God of Covenants Maker and Keeper, and repentance of our wicked, evil ways... Or the 911 Memorial might just claim that the people behind 911 were really "freedom fighters" according to certain Social Studies textbook published in California. These textbooks also claim that before American Revolution, the people who threw the tea aboard British ships in Boston, who called the event the Boston Tea Party were really "terrorists". This is why we MUST pray...

2) We must pray for the peace of Jerusalem AND be part of God's grand design! Why Jerusalem in particular? 'Cause it is His baby so to speak. In the Bible, it is mentioned 808 times! Pray with me that Yerushalam (Jerusalem) is kept as one city not to be divided. Pray in Hebrew, Psalm 122:6 "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem; those who love you shall prosper." "Sha alu shalom Yerushalam (not Yerushalayim - plural); yishlayu ohavayeekh." Say it, claim it, sing it, and proclaim it. You see God is a God that cannot lie. When mankind says the beloved city's name in plural, they are claiming it divided like the city of Berlin that was split in two: East Berlin, and West Berlin.

3) If you can gather your church group to pray for these two above concerns. I am sure it is high on our Father's list to pray for. Or if you can go on line and ask people you know who love Yah'shua and Israel to do likewise to pray throughout both evenings before the 2 dates: A - 9/11/11 for 911 Families and that Ground Zero that became one of the most dangerous site on USA since 9/11/01 will become the safest zone in NYC, NYS, USA, the whole world... and B - 9/21/01 the Durban III World Conference where many nations want to force the division of Yerushalam. The second date's goal will never come to pass for our Father is incapable of lying; His Word will come to pass. Look up Esther 9:21. It is where you read when His People celebrate Purim. The reference 9:21 coincides with September 21st. But then, God is in control; there is no coincidence but providence. God is saying that just like in the Book of Esther, the outcome was reversed completely. So it will be on this date, 9/21/11, ten years after 9-11. You have the choice to take part of His grand design. Will you? Do you dare? If you are washed by His precious Son's blood, can you do any less but intercede?

4) What does praying for the peace of Yerushalam has to do with praying for 911? Do you know why USA was attacked in the first place? Back then, the US government was still an ally of Israel. The enemy of God’s people attacked US so they can be free to attack Israel. Israel has supernaturally survived as a nation since 5/18/1948. The Jews have supernaturally survived up till now. The enemy still wants to wipe the Jews and the Holy Land off the map. The question is not if they will ever succeed. The question is whether you will be part of His sovereign plan or against it by not praying Ps. 122:6. Since 911, America underwent several natural disasters (it seems), but they mostly correlate with the dates when US government decided to turn against Israel. Again, is it coincidences or God’s judgment? Remember, my God of Israel does not lie. Genesis 12:3 will always be true,

3 I will bless those who bless you,
And I will curse him who curses you;
And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”

That is why we need to pray for 911 Families. That is why we need to pray for the peace of Yerushalam.

5) I heard that Barack Obama is not born I US. If that is true, how come no one is impeaching him? When the majority is scared to rock the justice boat, the nation is dying...

Let us be the resting place for the most high God! Shalom/peace of the heart in Yah'shua, :)

Praying Pele Puvi

[Pu'vi]

I made a typo:

5) I heard that Barack Obama is not born I US. If that is true, how come no one is impeaching him? When the majority is scared to rock the justice boat, the nation is dying...

should be:

5) I heard that Barack Obama is not born in the US. If that is true, how come no one is impeaching him? When the majority is scared to rock the justice boat, the nation is dying...

Please pray and bless our Father's heart...

[Pu'vi]

Revised/edited once again:

5) I heard that Barack Obama is not born in the US. If that is true, how come no one is impeaching him? When the majority is scared to rock the justice boat, the nation is dying...

should be:

5) I heard that Barack Obama is not born in the US. If that is true, how come no one is impeaching him? When the majority is scared to rock the boat in the name of justice, the nation is dying...

Shalom/Peace of the heart...

Do plan ahead and bless your loved ones daily in Yah'shua, and yourself be anchored unto the Rock of Ages. The battle is the LORD's! Hallelu Yah!

Blessed be our Eternal Father's Name: YOD HEH VAV HEH

[Pu'vi]

I apologize for my fourth revision/edition:

5) I heard that Barack Obama is not born in the US. If that is true, how come no one is impeaching him? When the majority is scared to rock the boat in the name of justice, the nation is dying...

should be:

5) I heard that Barack Obama was not born in the US. If that is true, how come no one is impeaching him? When the majority is scared to rock the boat in the name of justice, the nation is dying...

Shalom/Peace of the heart... All is well for those who love Him, trust Him, obey Him and bless Him :)

[jeffreyc]

i disagree with Pastor Youssef, Mayor Bloomberg has been extended Far Too much Credit in Dr. Youssef's analysis, Bloomberg was not extending any Coutesy to Christians or Victims, in any Stretch of the imagination, Bloombergs decision was made from pure Arrogance.

[Pu'vi]

On Wednesday, September 7th, 2011, I made many mistakes on Michael Youssef''s blog. I realized there was yet one more, a big mistake at that. I apologize to all God's people. I type the wrong date for the Independence Day of the Nation of Israel:

4) What does praying for the peace of Yerushalam has to do with praying for 911? Do you know why USA was attacked in the first place? Back then, the US government was still an ally of Israel. The enemy of God’s people attacked US so they can be free to attack Israel. Israel has supernaturally survived as a nation since 5/18/1948.

It ought to be:

I quote " Out of faith in the Rock of Israel we hereby sign by our hands our signatures as testament to this Declaration, in the session of the temporary State Council, on the soil of the homeland, in the city of Tel Aviv, on this day, Sabbath eve, Hey [5th] in Eiyar 5608, 14th of May 1948. "

namely 5/14/1948.

The Jews have supernaturally survived up till now. The enemy still wants to wipe the Jews and the Holy Land off the map. The question is not if they will ever succeed. The question is whether you will be part of His sovereign plan or against it by not praying Ps. 122:6.

***
Today, I urge you please look up www.protestdurban3.com. Do not be 1) clueless of history in the making, or 2) onlookers of history in the making, but 3) partaker of history in the making.

I repeat, "The enemy still wants to wipe the Jews and the Holy Land off the map. The question is not if they will ever succeed. The question is whether you will be part of His sovereign plan or against it by not praying Ps. 122:6: "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem; those who love you shall prosper." "Pray in Hebrew, Psalm 122:6 "Sha alu shalom Yerushalam (not Yerushalayim - plural); yishlayu ohavayeekh." Say it, claim it, sing it, and proclaim it. You see God is a God that cannot lie. When mankind says the beloved city's name in plural, they are claiming it divided like the city of Berlin that was split in two: East Berlin, and West Berlin.