Author Archives: joyocala

The Christmas carol that was the most fun for us kids in choir to sing was “The Snow Lay on the Ground” in the arrangement by Leo Sowerby. We sang it with combined choirs so there were probably forty singers … Continue reading →

Having lived through many New Years since 1952, I’ve seen crises, famines, wars, rumors of war, earthquakes, and hurricanes. There were vast changes from the Cold War era until now. Through it all, I realize that what was prophesied in … Continue reading →

The holy baby is born in Bethlehem.  Oh yes, we know.  We have heard the angels proclaim his birth.  “Don’t be afraid! I am here with good news for you, which will bring great joy to all the people.  This … Continue reading →

We have eagerly anticipated during this Advent season, the celebration of our Savior’s birth.  The day has arrived.  Christmas is here.  Many are familiar with the nativity story.  The young parents charged with bringing God’s only son to life, the humble stall of His … Continue reading →

I always loved the feeling of driving home after Christmas Eve services when I was a kid.  We lived on a farm several miles outside of town so it took about twenty minutes to get home. It was dark, the … Continue reading →

As a child, Christmas was a focal point for our family for a good portion of the year. I looked forward to the celebrations with great anticipation and excitement. In a large family, the idea of a benefactor like Santa … Continue reading →

The Fourth Sunday in Advent turns to the story of Joseph who is told in a dream not to be afraid to take Mary into his home even though she is expecting a child. This story hasn’t inspired as many … Continue reading →

“For this is the message you have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another” (1John:3:11). It’s a wonderful message for Christmas, and yet far from the reality around us. I once walked into a crowded store shortly … Continue reading →

There are many glimpses we get of the remarkable, ordinary, with-us story of our salvation. I hope that you can visualize in the specific, angel-sent affirmation that what you see with your mind’s eye is absolutely true for you. The … Continue reading →

As we begin this week, we have just six more days until the glorious celebration of our Savior’s birth -Emmanuel, God with usl O Come EmmanuelCome into our heartsCome into our thoughtsCome into our every actionCome into our painCome into … Continue reading →