Author Archives: joyocala

I thought I knew a lot about prayer, but then I came across this in C. S. Lewis’s book, Letters to Malcolm: Chiefly about Prayer. “In fact, I tried to pray without words at all–not to verbalize the mental acts. Even … Continue reading →

I’ve been doing some genealogy research for a friend who has many Quakers among her ancestors.  I’m finding people who truly put their beliefs into action.  They strongly opposed slavery, and because of this they were instrumental in initiating and … Continue reading →

An advanced degree, it is called. Going beyond, almost all the way in academia. The Masters. When sportscaster on CBS Jim Nantz says those words, it sounds like paradise opened up. One of pro golf’s majors, played on the beautiful, … Continue reading →

Some days are dark with hatred, discrimination and violence.  We feel overwhelmed and helpless.  We watch as some speak out, some engage in non-violent protests, and some are actively calling their congressmen to express their opinions.   All are good things.   … Continue reading →

Psalm 68: 1-4 (The Message version): “Up with God! Down with his enemies! Adversaries, run for the hills! Gone like a puff of smoke, like a blob of wax in the fire—one look at God and the wicked vanish. When the righteous see … Continue reading →

I came across this blessing by Susie Larson recently and I thought it was a nice message to share as we continue our journey through Lent.  When Jesus came to earth, times were tough, futures seemed uncertain and the world … Continue reading →

This verse was written eons of years ago-eons! Yet I have still to come to accept it unconditionally. I can put my family into God’s care and accept that He will provide. I can put friends’ problems into God’s care and accept that He will … Continue reading →

Have you ever been inside a church sanctuary as the sun is going down? How did it make you feel? I’ve been in University Auditorium (a very church-like building) at the University of Florida a number of times for organ … Continue reading →

No matter how many times I turn my will over to God, I find myself taking it back again. And I struggle. I struggle with simple things like cooking and doing the dishes. I struggle with tasks that I have … Continue reading →

Valentines Day has become a source of consternation to me. Why do I need a commercially contrived, random date on the calendar to guilt me into its’ observance?Please forgive the cynic in me. Isn’t a lifetime of love just that … Continue reading →