Author Archives: joyocala

Some of the most repeated words in Scripture begin this way: “Our Lord Jesus Christ on the night in which he was betrayed took bread . . .” Millions of Christians hear these words every Sunday. They are the account … Continue reading →

 Reading about the Pharisees in the New Testament has always left me with a bad opinion of them; in fact, I’m sure that the original lawyer jokes were about the Pharisees in Biblical times. After thinking about it, however, I … Continue reading →

“The Chosen”. So many friends and colleagues have been telling us to check it out. The episodes sure do bring the world of Capernaum up close and relatable. Watching this show is undoubtably better use of leisure time than many … Continue reading →

The palms have been waved; the hosannahs sung.  Now we begin the most sacred week on our liturgical calendar.  Each day Jesus is in the temple teaching.  Each day the chief priests and elders try to trap him into saying … Continue reading →

        Remember how your heart fluttered with a new relationship? The tingling feelings that emanated from head to toe. Or perhaps, you were attending a concert and the rush of emotions from the crowd, the noise, the cheers pushed your excitement … Continue reading →

I enjoy watching a few of the NCAA basketball tournament games. I was impressed by the players’ humility and willingness to share the glory with coaches and team mates. This is what Paul exhorts us to be in our daily … Continue reading →

Today I prepared a main meal to feed 35 people at the local family shelter. I had lots of wonderful, loving help with other foods and set-up from my husband and several other church members. For me, it was a … Continue reading →

I’ve attended Seven Last Word Services on Good Friday since my teens. I’ve preached at them also. Several times I have volunteered to preach on the fifth word, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” That’s a difficult … Continue reading →

        Most Christians are knowledgeable about the events of Holy Week. For as long as I remember, I have known the crucifixion story.  I did not focus too much on the horror that must have taken place, but rather Judas’s part in … Continue reading →

Three stories making headlines today on my phone: for the first time in NCAA basketball tournament history, no number 1 seeds made the “Elite Eight”; Israel is a hot mess of tension; we keep experiencing extraordinary weather events. All three … Continue reading →