Author Archives: joyocala

 In Paul’s letter to the Ephesians (6:10-20), he instructs them to “Put on the whole armor of God…” Hmmmm, I was struck by this order and excited by the words that follow this admonition.  He goes on to explain that … Continue reading →

Jesus frequently asked questions. I count 30 questions in the first eight chapters of Mark alone. Occasionally, the question is only to gain information, like when Jesus asks a blind man if he can see anything while he heals the … Continue reading →

Did you first learn those words from reading comic books? They are resurfacing on all the current movies about superheroes, transformers, bigger-than-life comic heroes on the mega screen for all to view. I fantasize that these “power” words were first … Continue reading →

I remember my Confirmation days so well because they were every Saturday for two years. Really? Give up our Saturdays? Yes, we did. The bonuses were we learned, we bonded, we studied, we survived. Our Luther League Youth Group was … Continue reading →

“Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto … Continue reading →

What do you consider to be a pleasantry?  Perhaps hearing, “good morning,”  “what a beautiful day,”  “what a nice car…I love your bracelet…cute little toddler….” We are all aware of these brief greetings and pleasant words. Proverbs 16:24 states, “Pleasant words are like a … Continue reading →

I have done a lot of golfing in my life, mostly for fun with friends or family, but also in leagues and tournaments.  I am not a great golfer by any stretch of the imagination, (and would probably be rated … Continue reading →

(Originally posted on July 22, 2022, but noted that the weather is repeating itself here in Vermont and the Holy Spirit is still with me!)  We have had several very windy days here at camp. The wind has howled without … Continue reading →

I was in Burger King one evening when two men waiting in line started shouting religious slogans, I guess with the intention of converting the heathen diners into Christians. The problem  was a lot of their slogans were directed against … Continue reading →

While brainstorming ideas for upcoming blogs, my son Seth volunteered the following: “We need more kindness, Mom. We need to live the Word, not just talk about it. We need to set our own personal example of good behavior and … Continue reading →