Author Archives: joyocala

As a youngster, when scrapes and cuts occurred, of course, I would run to my mom for help. I was not a tomboy, but rather a “softie” with my pain tolerance and my feelings.  Mother would apply Bactine or Merthiolate (after … Continue reading →

As we approach the second Sunday of Advent, my thoughts return to the Advent Song by Mary Lu Walker.  In my previous church we sang this song as we celebrated this special liturgical season of Advent which means “Coming” in … Continue reading →

I started writing this blog during the first week in November, while waiting for the election results-all week.  I am generally a good “waiter”.  I have lots of things to keep me engaged and interested.  I usually have a good … Continue reading →

My love of Advent was formed in the good-old-days of the old lectionary, the one the western church had used for about 1,000 years. The lessons were about Jesus’ entry to Jerusalem, Jesus talking about the end of the world, … Continue reading →

Originally posted on December 16, 2018 The Latin version of this word literally means, “the coming.” There have probably been many advent occasions in your own life. Do you have children? Pregnancy is the advent of the coming event of … Continue reading →

Dear blog readers, most of us saw our physical leaping days depart a long time ago. Leaping is still a great notion, and awesome action verb. It is playful and JOYful. There are numerous leaping instances; I shall name a … Continue reading →

I just finished reading a meaningful devotional book, “Honest Advent – Awakening to the Wonder of God-With-Us.”*   I’d like to share a few of the author’s insights with you. Perhaps Christmas has lost some of its luster for you this … Continue reading →

 When are taxes due? When is my term paper due? When is your baby due? Due Dates are important markers.  We need to prioritize them in our schedules.  Make note of them.  Pay attention to them as the calendar moves daily toward them. Be … Continue reading →

Stephen Ministers are “After People.” Hmmmm, what does that mean? It means that Stephen Ministers are with their care receivers after the funeral is over and the neighbors’ dishes have been returned. They are there after the tough decisions are … Continue reading →

Several years ago I wrote the following in a devotion about Martin Rinkart, the author of  “Now Thank We All Our God.” “It’s hard to imagine the conditions of Martin Rinkart’s (1586-1649) life when he wrote this great hymn. He … Continue reading →