Author Archives: joyocala

One of my favorite painting is Caravaggio’s Supper at Emmaus. Jesus sits at table with two of his followers. As he blesses the bread, the astonished disciples recognize the risen Christ. A waiter standing near Jesus remains unmoved, oblivious to … Continue reading →

Dear Blog Reader, We are resurrection people! Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! ALLELUIA!!  It is a time to plant. God’s kingdom is advancing, in ways we normally do not perceive. His Church will stand, but he still partners … Continue reading →

With apologies to my gentlemen readers, I’m guessing that most of you ladies learned ballroom dancing at one time or another. Now I haven’t been dancing lately, but I have a clear memory of “dancing backwards.” I’m not talking about … Continue reading →

The pandemic of 2020 is not the first pandemic in the world’s history nor will it be the last.  It also is not the worst situation to befall humankind, but it is affecting “us”, so it is prominent in our minds. … Continue reading →

 I have some family members who suffer from anxiety issues and at times it becomes debilitating for them.  It interferes with their daily lives in such a way that they are unable to perform their jobs and daily tasks at … Continue reading →

Well, yes, it is!  Just as everyday of every year is an Easter Day!  We have been saved.  We are loved unconditionally by a God who gives us His life every day.  He loves us no matter where we live, … Continue reading →

The last canticle sung at the Easter Vigil is the Song of the Three Youth.  It was first sung by Hananiah, Mishael, and Azairah (Shadrach, Mishach, Abednego) while King Nebuchadnezzar tried to incinerate them in his burning, fiery furnace. I … Continue reading →

Some things are too wonderful and great to put into words.  Some things must be experienced to be understood and fully appreciated.  Yet, we try to explain the unexplainable and to share these moments because they are too wonderful to … Continue reading →

 Dear Blog Reader, Whether you are a devoted regular or a first-timer, I believe we have a relationship of trust. Even pastors can confess and be a little irreverent at times. Confession first: I am quirky, eccentric, and a bit … Continue reading →

I wish you a good morning on this Easter Monday.   It’s a special observance on our church calendar and in some places even a national holiday, but what are we celebrating?  When my kids were little it was a “sugar … Continue reading →