Author Archives: joyocala

About joyocala

Blog posts by the saints of JOY Lutheran Church in Ocala. We are excited to do this ministry together and to share God's unconditional love with all who read these messages.

Hosanna!

Hosanna now through AdventWith loving hearts we sing,For Jesus Christ is comingTo be his children’s king. Hosanna! Blessed Jesus,Come in our hearts to dwell,And let our lives and voicesYour praise and glory tell. Yep. It’s another song I learned in … Continue reading

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Waiting for a Friend

I’m waiting to meet a friend in Barnes and Nobles and writing this as I wait.  I’m early again, but I don’t mind.  This is one of my favorite places.  As I sit waiting, I hear Christmas carols being played … Continue reading

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Telling Our Story of Advent Journeys

 I can’t believe we are halfway through Advent already. Don’t you wish you could hit the “pause” button? Our creature habits don’t die or change easily. Even if we’re retired, we still run ourselves ragged trying to get everything done. … Continue reading

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The Key

Who among us has not lost his keys?   Perhaps misplaced is a better word.  In either case, we’re ready to leave the house and we can’t.  We’re frustrated, baffled, and stopped in our tracks.  It might be time for “Honey, … Continue reading

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Does Advent Mean “Hurry Up?”

According to Google, advent means:  the arrival of a notable person, thing, or event. As Christians enter the season of ADVENT, the anticipation of the celebration of the birth of the Lord is a reflective time. The prophets of ancient times … Continue reading

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A Morning Blessing

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 Advent.  When Jesus came to earth, times were tough, futures seemed uncertain and leaders misused … Continue reading

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A Cup of Cold Water

As I write this, I have just finished a hearty Thanksgiving Day dinner. A cup of cold water seems a disappointing offering. However, in certain circumstances, a cold drink of water could be a lifesaver, a source of comfort or … Continue reading

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People Look East

Everyone who plans worship has heard the comment: “Where did they get that awful hymn? Nobody could sing it.” I heard it one Sunday in Advent when we sang “People Look East.” Nonsense, I thought. I learned that when I … Continue reading

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God is in Charge

It sure is hard to remain positive with all the negative information on the news these days. I start to get discouraged, then I remember psalms 46:10: “Be still and know that I am God. I will be exalted among … Continue reading

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Glorifying Testimony

This week I again “dig into the vault” to share an anonymous Christian testimony: God is able to deliver from myWeariness and painAnd He will deliver swiftly if itBe for lasting gain, But if not, my heart shall singTrusting wholly … Continue reading

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