Author Archives: joyocala

There was a rainbow in the sky on the morning I wrote this blog. I am as taken by rainbows now as when I first saw one as a child. Yes, as an adult I know it has to do … Continue reading →

Horton the Elephant is one of Dr. Seuss’ most lovable characters.  As his story unfolds, Horton hears the faintest of voices, as if some tiny person were calling for help.  Although he is ridiculed and thwarted at every turn, Horton … Continue reading →

Church, I’m talking about. Existing in this world, but not being of it. Transforming one soul at a time. We can do this by making the church the lens by which we view the world. Letting Jesus be the mirror … Continue reading →

We’re in the midst of these forty days right now, the period from Easter to Ascension.  We know Jesus rose from the dead on Easter.  We know he ascended back to heaven on Ascension. But what about the time in … Continue reading →

Making plans is a huge part of our lives.  First the plans are made for you by your parents and then as you grow up the planning is gradually released to you. Throughout your lifetime, you make thousands of plans.  … Continue reading →

From childhood, most of us are taught polite manners. Foremost on that list will be the use of the words “Please” and “Thank You”. The Easter Season calls to mind a big thank you that we owe to Jesus Christ. … Continue reading →

This story is from Henri Nouwen’s book Clowning in Rome. A sculptor was working with hammer and chisel on a large block of marble. A small boy watched fascinated as pieces of stone fell away, but he had no idea what … Continue reading →

I’m writing this on a Sunday in a country of 1.38 billion people, in a city whose population is approaching 25 million with 9,700 people per square mile. The population density leads to pushing, shoving and zero personal space on … Continue reading →

I am neat as a pin in some aspects, nnnnnnot so much in others. I am kind of “OCD” when it comes to folding my clothes and putting them away. I even do the ironing for Debbie and me. I’m … Continue reading →

April is a wonderful month in Florida, for many the beginning of beach season.  It’s a perfect time to look around us, to see the marvels that God has given to us.  There’s a lovely song by John Rutter that … Continue reading →