Author Archives: joyocala

I love a beautifully wrapped present. I really appreciate the giver’s efforts to coordinate wrapping paper and ribbons to enhance the surprise inside the package. Jesus knows that about me . . . He gift wraps every morning . . … Continue reading →

“We are worried and distracted by many things.” This is a line from the Confession which we make every Sunday at the beginning of Sunday service. Sometimes these words become so automatic that we lose the real message. For the … Continue reading →

When I lived in Chicago, I sometimes walked past Graceland Cemetery. It’s surrounded by an eight-foot-high brick wall. I don’t know if the wall was meant to keep people out or keep something else in, but the only entrance was … Continue reading →

I’ve liked the comedy of Bob Newhart since the early 1960s, when he became well-known with his bestselling comedy album “The Button Down Mind of Bob Newhart.” While I also liked his TV shows over the years, I think my … Continue reading →

There is no getting around or escaping our ongoing encounters with God. How can God bring good out of my wretchedness? I know that I exhaust and frustrate Him. The Good News is that I also know that I am … Continue reading →

Sometimes life’s challenges come unexpectedly. Out of the blue we find ourselves facing injury, illness or loss. We’re stunned; we’re taken aback. It takes time to absorb our new situation, to react appropriately to this unexpected turn of events. But … Continue reading →

War movies are of great interest to me. I grew up watching the old black and white movies like RUN SILENT, RUN DEEP, THE SANDS OF IWO JIMA, THE GUNS OF NAVARONE etc. The training, the leadership, the ethos of … Continue reading →

I dial the 800 number and groan with frustration as I hear the dreaded recording: “You have reached XYZ Company. For account information, please press 1. For billing questions, please press 2. For customer service, please press 3.” I press … Continue reading →

Today is the day after the traditional 4th of July celebration, but like good Americans, we will let this celebration roll into the weekend. It is a great cause for celebration! This country was formed through the toil and struggles … Continue reading →

In 1776 John Adams wrote to his wife: “I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of … Continue reading →