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Every time you read the Bible, four things should happen. 1. Information - you are informed about something ie. Jesus was born in Bethlehem 2. Illumination - you have more than information, something new has become clearer to you ie: a soft answer turns away anger 3. Revelation - you have truth revealed to you - ie parables about a lost sheep, lost coin and lost sons show that the LORD greatly cares about spiritually lost people being found 4. Transformation - you are changed by what you have read ie: you stay calm during conflicts because you learned that a soft answer turns away anger Does your Bible reading do these things in your life? 
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The recently released CIA report released by the Senate Select Committee of Intelligence gave stark details about CIA's interrogation practices. The enhanced techniques were used on suspects held after the September 11, 2001 attacks. The media ranges from outrage to support of the methods, depending on their audience. I began thinking about the way enemies of Israel were treated in the Old Testament. There was often a brief interrogation followed by a brutal killing of a captured enemy. In light of the 2,996 lives that were lost in the suicide attacks, strong force used on suspects seems justified. Now, let us consider Jesus' words about treatment of enemies: Do not repay evil for evil. Turn the other cheek. Love your enemies. Quite a contrast from treatment you read God directing kings and leaders in the Old Testament. What is a biblical response to how the CIA should treat prisoners being interrogated? You and I are spectators on the sidelines regarding the CIA's techniques. More importantly, how do you treat those who are in conflict with you at work, school, neighborhood or among your family? Bitter and brutal or forgiving and loving? 
The cell phone had worn keypads. It could not delete all the "pocket pictures" it had taken, had no working ring tones and had well scratched screen. The battery life was short. The recharge port was so worn that you had to position it just right or it would not charge. I was just waiting for it to die.It never did. It has lasted two years longer than I believed it ever would or could last.
Yesterday, I got a newer, free phone. A person at my wife's workplace was throwing their phone away and offered it to her before chucking it. Connie knew it was far better than my current phone, so she brought it home. I transferred my SIM card and am pleased as punch with my "new" phone. Simple treasures, life's pleasures. Simplicity is a good thing to seek out during the busy holiday season. Jesus was born in a simple stable. Mary and Joseph were common people. Shepherds, who were the blue collar labor force at that time, were the first to see the Messiah. Jesus did not own land, a business, or a home. He rode on a borrowed burro at His final entrance into Jerusalem. What would it look like to go simple this year at Christmas? Less preparation? Less cleaning? Less shopping? Less cooking? Consider going simpler this Christmas and see if it opens new doors of joy into this holiday season.  The best way to deepen a relationship is by spending time with one another and talking with one another. The best way to have more Christ in your Christmas is by spending time with Jesus and saying, "Let's Talk".
 The push of Christmas shopping, baking, making and preparing for 'the big day' often overshadows the main reason for the season, Jesus. This year, I want more Christ in my Christmas and perhaps you want that also.
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Mark Radeke
Husband of one, father of five, pastor and friend of many. Archives
February 2024
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