Author Archives: joyocala

One of last year’s best movies was “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” in which Tom Hanks starred as Fred Rogers of the children’s TV show “Mister Rogers Neighborhood.” I think Rogers was an amazing man. He was a Presbyterian … Continue reading →

            This morbid topic came to me last week when I heard a historian on TV speak about the effect the assassination of President Lincoln has had on civil rights in America.  Reflecting I found myself thinking about the effects … Continue reading →

 There are minor miracles going on constantly that we are seldom aware of. Breathing. Heart beating. Blinking. Cells re-generating at microscopic, mathematically inconceivable rates. CO2 making our existence possible at all. Infinitesimal feelings, instincts and thoughts always being processed by … Continue reading →

When Jesus preached His Sermon on the Mount, He began with “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”  Matthew 5:3   Surely it must be important if Jesus Himself placed it first.  How can we … Continue reading →

When the Coronavirus of 2020 swooped into the United States and the world pandemic became our reality, lots of mental adjustment was necessary.  Stay in.  Self isolate. Practice social distancing.  Wear protective gloves, masks and wash your hands thoroughly and more frequently.  Sanitize. I … Continue reading →

Originally posted on July 17, 2017 The waves crashed, the sailing vessel rolled; but all hands were on deck when the shout was heard, “Thar She Blows.” A whale was spotted! The crew took to their longboats, oarsmen rowed frantically … Continue reading →

During this time of isolation, I convinced my husband to binge watch a series about EMTs and firefighters.  We have been thrilled, scared, dismayed and inspired. During each emergency event, I noticed that the first thing that either the EMT … Continue reading →

Today marks the 490th anniversary of the presentation of the Augsburg Confession, the basic statement of Lutheran beliefs. The Holy Roman Emperor Charles V asked the Protestant Princes to submit a statement of their beliefs to an Imperial Diet at … Continue reading →

            Take a deep breath.  Do you think that the breath you just took shared any air with the last breath of Christ?  I think it’s an interesting question, and the answer may surprise you.  Right now, I’m deeply tempted.  … Continue reading →

  Many have tried and failed to accurately predict when Christ will come again. It really started with St. Paul. Even though he did not prognosticate a definite date, he wanted his churches to be very aware and prepared for the … Continue reading →