Author Archives: joyocala

The commemoration of St. Stephen, the first martyr on the Day after Christmas always seems out of place. There is a legend that December 26 was the day when the relics of St. Stephen were discovered in 415. Maybe so. … Continue reading →

Every now and then we at Joy Lutheran will use “This Little Light of Mine” as a closing hymn, and when we do, everyone leaves the sanctuary joyful, happy, and ready to meet the week ahead as Christian witnesses. The … Continue reading →

As I think about today and what this “Christmas Eve” day means I have so many different memories and thoughts going through my mind. During my childhood, as I remember it, Christmas Eve was a happy time with family together, … Continue reading →

We’re so close to Christmas. Tomorrow night we will light our candles and reverently contemplate that holy birth in Bethlehem. So close, but not yet time. Think of Mary, almost ready to deliver her child, but not quite. Think of … Continue reading →

There is no way that I’m the only one who does not enjoy the automated answering messages I receive when trying to contact a company/bank/office for assistance. Finally reaching a “live” person sometimes takes many minutes or longer. The long … Continue reading →

Rejoice, rejoice, believers, And let your lights appear; The evening is advancing, And darker night is near. The Bridegroom is arising And soon is drawing nigh. Up, pray and watch and wrestle; At midnight comes the cry. One of my … Continue reading →

Last night’s mid-week service contained a quote from author Max Lucardo. It was about prayer and indirectly why to pray. I was struck by the simplicity of the statement and reminded, once again, about where the power of prayer rests. … Continue reading →

One of the nice things about being retired is that I don’t have to preach about John the Baptist during Advent. John is sort of like Tabasco sauce to my mind; a little bit of him goes a long way, … Continue reading →

Paulette and I recently watched a movie entitled “The Man Who Invented Christmas.” It wasn’t about the original Christmas story; it was about Charles Dickens, his short novel “A Christmas Carol,” and how it (together with Queen Victoria’s beautifully decorated … Continue reading →

This might be a two-fold lament of the Advent/Christmas season. Do you find yourself being wistful this time of year, longing for simpler, more pleasant times? We do catch ourselves stopping and remembering, even as all the events and programs … Continue reading →