Author Archives: joyocala

Do you have balance in your life?  I am not asking you if you can walk a balance beam; however, visualize walking on one. Can you keep yourself upright and one foot in front of the other? Not always easy, especially … Continue reading →

In my research for a blog topic, I read this quote by Dallas Willard, former professor of Philosophy at USC who was touted as an icon for Christian scholars around the world. Grace is not earned. Grace is not an … Continue reading →

I read this in “The Practice of the Love of Jesus” by Alphonsus de Liguori: “Kindness should be shown to the poor especially, since they are often treated harshly simply because they are poor. It should be shown in a particular … Continue reading →

Recently I mentioned my problems with distractions in prayer. Some distractions are external like noise or other people. A friend of mine had to drive somewhere in her car and park to have any undisturbed place to pray. Most of … Continue reading →

When Peter wanted to walk on water, as his Lord had done, Jesus directed him to get out of the boat.  I often wonder, as much as I desire to follow Him and learn of Him and listen for His … Continue reading →

If you have worked in an administrative office or in a management position, you know all about paperwork. In my Navy musician days, most of my band mates had a collateral duty when we weren’t out performing. Every fleet band … Continue reading →

“I know that my Redeemer lives. What comfort this sweet sentence gives.”  (emphasis mine) The words are so familiar, the Easter message so full of joy, we can’t help but sing it with vigor and a heart filled with wonder. … Continue reading →

In Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, he states, “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ has forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:32. In The Message version of the Bible it reads like this “Make a clean break with all … Continue reading →

How often I have slid down the slippery slope of pride.  It’s so easy.   In our thinking we lift ourselves up, by putting others down.“I” would never say a thing like . . .“I” would never be as pretentious as . . … Continue reading →

So often I am caught in the cycle of petitioning God for action that I forget the importance of praising God. Praising God must start my morning.  Saying, humming, singing Doxology is a beautiful and uplifting way to begin the day. Doxology is a short hymn of praise. There are … Continue reading →