NewsChat: Daily Podcast with Jack Norton

Father Arrested for Killing Son, Bible Sales Surge Amid Crisis, Love Conquers Alzheimer’s

Tune in daily to NewsChat, the podcast that brings you the truth in news. Hosted by Jack Norton, this show delivers honest, straightforward reporting on the day’s top stories, paired with a thoughtful, sensible take. Presented by the Jack and Kitty News Network in association with Voices of Faith Ministries, NewsChat keeps you informed with clarity, integrity, and honest insights. Stay updated with news that matters and perspectives that guide.

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Father Arrested for Killing Son

This is NewsChat: your source for the Truth in today’s news. Today is December 24, 2024 and I’m your host Jack Norton from JackAndKitty.com.

Up first a troubling story from way out west.

A California man, Andrey Demskiy, 28, was arrested Friday morning after allegedly murdering his 1-year-old son and attacking his wife and mother-in-law in a violent assault at their Sacramento home. The attack began around 4 a.m., with the women fleeing the home to seek help.

When deputies arrived, Demskiy refused to cooperate, forcing officers to break into the house, where they found the child’s lifeless body. The boy had been beheaded with a knife. Demskiy was arrested without bail and is facing serious charges. His mother-in-law sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Demskiy’s court appearance is scheduled for December 24.

Now you might be thinking what I’m thinking: could this be the work of demons? Well, from a Christian perspective, the tragic events involving Andrey Demskiy are a heart-wrenching reminder of the reality of evil in the world. While the details are deeply disturbing, we must remember that such acts of violence are not just the result of human depravity but can also be manifestations of demonic influence.

Scripture warns us that the enemy, Satan, comes to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10). Acts like these are not simply random acts of rage but may reflect the destructive work of evil forces seeking to tear apart families and lives.

As Christians, we understand that demonic possession and oppression can lead people to commit horrific acts. In this case, the brutality displayed is so beyond normal human behavior that it suggests a spiritual battle at work.

The Apostle Paul reminds us that our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces of evil (Ephesians 6:12).

We must pray for the victims, for healing and comfort, but also for the man involved, that God might break any strongholds and bring deliverance and repentance. This tragedy also calls Christians to be vigilant in prayer, asking God to protect families from such demonic attacks and to intervene in the lives of those who are being tormented by dark forces.

Bible Sales Surge Amid Crisis

And now, after that story, I think we could use some encouraging news.

Booksellers are reporting Bible sales in the U.S. have experienced a sharp rise, up 22% this year compared to 2023, with over 13.7 million copies sold by October 2024. This surge comes at a time when the broader book market has seen only modest growth, highlighting the Bible’s increasing demand.

The rise in sales is being driven by global uncertainty, including concerns over AI, political instability, and economic challenges. Many people, particularly first-time buyers, are turning to Scripture for hope, with younger generations like Gen Z showing a significant interest in exploring faith.

This trend is not just a fleeting spike; it reflects a growing cultural shift. In 2023, Bible sales reached 14.2 million, with 2024 set to surpass that figure. Notably, young adults aged 18-26 are engaging more with the Bible, with 21% of Gen Z reporting an increase in their Bible use.

Social media platforms, where influencers and celebrities share their faith, have played a role in connecting younger people with spirituality. This newfound interest in the Bible suggests a deeper, long-term trend of spiritual engagement, particularly among younger generations navigating today’s complex world.

Love Conquers Alzheimer’s

Finally, since it’s Christmas Eve, I wanted to share with you a truly heartwarming story.

John Reichart, a 74-year-old Marine veteran from Indianola, Iowa, has transformed his entire neighborhood into a Christmas wonderland in honor of his wife, Joan, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s four years ago. His dedication to creating joyful memories for Joan, his wife of 53 years, has captured the hearts of his community. John’s love for Christmas and his wife is evident as he channels his energy into making the holiday season unforgettable for her. His efforts have inspired those in his town and beyond, proving the power of love and commitment.

As word spread, neighbors and volunteers rallied to help, offering assistance with decorations and lights. The neighborhood has become a must-see attraction, with visitors praising John’s gesture as a true embodiment of the holiday spirit. Many have been moved by his unwavering dedication and the sense of community it has fostered. John has pledged to continue this tradition for as long as possible, even in memory of Joan, should she pass away.

This man’s heartwarming gesture is a powerful example of sacrificial love, reflecting the Biblical call to love our spouses as Christ loves the Church. Ephesians 5:25 reminds husbands to love their wives with the same devotion Christ showed, giving Himself up for them. John’s unwavering dedication to his wife Joan, especially as she faces Alzheimer’s, mirrors this deep, selfless love. His commitment to making her smile, even in the midst of hardship, highlights the significance of caring for those in our lives through the trials of life.

This story also brings to mind the command in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, where love is described as patient, kind, and enduring through all circumstances. John’s determination to spread joy, not just to Joan but to his entire community, echoes the spirit of giving described in John 15:13, “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.”

In a world often focused on individualism, John’s actions remind us that true Christian love is not just about grand gestures, but about showing consistent care and compassion in both good times and difficult ones. His example encourages all of us to reflect Christ’s love through our own relationships and service to others.

Thanks for listening to NewsChat – now if the good Lord’s willing and the creek don’t rise, I’ll see you again tomorrow morning. I hope you have a great Christmas Eve – be sure to keep your eyes peeled for Santa this evening, and don’t forget to leave out a carrot for good ol’ Rudolph. Remember, Jesus loves you and you deserve to feel good today! Take care.

NewsChat is a co-production from the Jack and Kitty News Network and Voices of Faith Ministries, visit us at JackAndKitty.com. Have a news tip, prayer request or just want to say hi? Email us: hello@jackandkitty.com. NewsChat is written and producted by Kitty Norton, with additional research by our reporters Maria Garcia, Todd Johnson, Thomas Miller and Emma Smith. It is recorded and hosted by me, Jack Norton and edited by Todd Johnson. Music composed and performed by Jack and Kitty Norton.

Finally, why did Santa lose the spelling bee? He thought there was noel.

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