Author Archives: joyocala

Do you ever wonder how people come to belief? I think it’s the rare individual that has the Saul kind of blinding, zapping experience. For most, they come at it intellectually, even scientifically. Having been a believer all my life, … Continue reading →

Do these words have you picturing two young lovers?   Do they bring back memories of those early days, when love was young?   Perhaps you’re fortunate enough to find these words even more meaningful after spending a lifetime with the one … Continue reading →

Well, certainly as a parent, we hope we have the answers.  I laugh to myself because as a middle school Pre-Algebra teacher, I often heard, “even my father/mother can’t do some of these problems.” Are you the spouse or friend that … Continue reading →

While I was running errands a few days ago, I saw someone wearing a T-shirt that said “Make Lying Wrong Again”.  I found it very amusing and got a good chuckle out of it.  As I thought about it however, … Continue reading →

This Sunday, my friend Irene and I are singing the anthem at church.  It is a beautiful song of praise to the Lord entitled “By Our Love”.  The version which we will be singing is an adaptation by Tom Kendzia, … Continue reading →

The company Dad worked for held an open house at their new factory. Dad showed us around and proudly pointed out his desk. Machinists didn’t usually have a desk, just a work station, but he was now the assistant foreman, … Continue reading →

Just as our bodies need exercise to be strong physically, our faith needs exercise if we are to be strong spiritually. It has often been noted that several rivers flow into the Dead Sea, but no river flows from it.  … Continue reading →

I grew up in Chicago so what do I know about sheep? For goodness sake, they had sheep in the zoo so we deprived city kids would know what real sheep look like.  Fortunately, I had a seminary professor, Dr. … Continue reading →

Is my prayer life too restrained, perhaps self-centered?  I’m afraid that may be so.  Oh yes,  I pray words of thanksgiving for my blessings.  I pray many words of supplication, seeking help for myself and others.  But how often do … Continue reading →

Interestingly, I find these writings enabling me to put “myself” on paper into words.  After watching a new commercial about Liberty Mutual Insurance (not promoting this company, just sharing a story about their commercial), where the emu and limo driver are … Continue reading →