Author Archives: joyocala

A little over 40 years ago, I, who have “two left thumbs,” (meaning no handy skills), sanded and stained a used single headboard for my youngest son. I restored it to a maple finish to match a treasured dresser that … Continue reading →

There was a time in my life when I could multi-task with the best of them.  It was a necessary skill for me as it was for most of you when I was working full time, raising a family, volunteering … Continue reading →

This is the time of the year when I think about the abundant bounty that God gives us.  I have referred to God as the Constant Gardener.   I think that is an apt description of all that He does for … Continue reading →

I read something odd in Martin Luther’s Sermon for the Seventeenth Sunday after Trinity. He had been discussing the law, insisting that the law exists to promote love. If law is in conflict with love, the law must be ignored. … Continue reading →

 ​Charity played an important role in the early Church. Justin Martyr (100-165 A D) gives a description of an early church service in his apology, and it is noted that an offering was taken that was then distributed to orphans, … Continue reading →

There are planners and there are those who fly by the seat of their pants. It reminds me of the scene early in the movie “Pretty Woman”. Edward, played by Richard Gere and Vivian, played by Julia Roberts, are getting … Continue reading →

Rest in Peace my friend.  We say it to the departed, we engrave it on tombstones.  We offer these words, especially when our loved one has not found peace in this world. For some, the pain becomes so severe that … Continue reading →

One of Winnie the Pooh’s most famous quotes is, “A hug is always the right size.”  According to Google, “Frequent hugging and hand-holding can help to lower blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease, heart attack, or stroke. Hugging boosts self-esteem. Touch is a powerful language … Continue reading →

Do you ever have those days when you are full of bliss when you awaken? Last Saturday was one of those days for me.  This joy actually started the day before as I was able to do some of the … Continue reading →

June 8th will be the anniversary of my mother’s death. She left this world quietly and peacefully, just as she had lived her long faith-filled life. My mother once told me that she could not discuss theological concepts with me … Continue reading →