Author Archives: joyocala

King Herod told the astrologers to “search diligently for the child.” Mary and Joseph made a u-turn back to Jerusalem to find him at age twelve. The disciples of John the Baptist asked not only where but who the Messiah … Continue reading →

It was twenty years ago that I learned of the birth of my first grandchild. Oh how I longed to see her. We set out on our travels of more than 1100 miles, all leading to one small house where … Continue reading →

An epiphany can in simpler terms mean A…ha. Today is Epiphany in the Christian tradition. Wise Men, the Magi or Three Kings arrive to see the Messiah. From Bible studies and research, I know the Bible does not give us … Continue reading →

I need a Heart Transplant . . . My heartbeat has become too regular, too predictable. It’s forgotten to skip a beat at the glory of your sunrise, the majesty of the skies, the growth of my gardens, the love … Continue reading →

I scoff at New Year’s resolutions. Why bother when I can begin anew with each second, each minute, each hour or each new day? Why wait a whole year to attempt a change of action? Many New Year’s resolutions involve … Continue reading →

“It’s bad luck to have your Christmas Tree up after New Year’s Day.” What? Who says so? That superstition (which I never heard in my youth) must have been invented by some Scrooge-like adult who hated Christmas in the first … Continue reading →

I love Biblical benedictions. Even though I’ve heard the following one many times, it still moves me. “The Lord bless thee, and keep thee: The Lord make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The Lord lift … Continue reading →

Originally posted on January 1, 2018 Jesus — there has never been a name like the name of Jesus. Our Lord has been known by many names. But the name that He is best known by is the name given … Continue reading →

Originally posted a year ago by our friend and brother in the faith, Joey. His words were “on the mark” then and are no less relevant today. We’re happy to share his message once again. Having lived through many New … Continue reading →

What does itsy bitsy teeny weeny bring to mind? Maybe the childhood rhyme for children about the itsy bitsy spider or perhaps the teen song about the itsy bitsy teeny weeny bikini, the song by Bryan Hyland. ( I stood … Continue reading →