Author Archives: joyocala

It happens to all of us. When we are young, we view our elders as reallllllllyyyyy ancient. Out of touch. Close-minded. Judgmental. Cranky, even. The first broken window in our neighbors house from an errant baseball. The teacher who should … Continue reading →

In Genesis, chapter 22, God commanded Abraham to sacrifice his beloved son Isaac as a burnt offering.  It was a test of Abraham’s willingness to obey God’s command, even when it was painful.  We remember how Abraham and Isaac traveled … Continue reading →

Most mothers have a “labor” story they can choose to share. (Sometimes I wonder why they bombard expectant mothers with those stories, some are not pleasant). Let’s fast forward to the birth.  When your new bundle is placed in your arms, … Continue reading →

I’m always excited by the gifts the people of my church impart on us.  We have people who share their wonderful musical talents, those who have great organizational skills, many who cook and organize food events, folks who share their … Continue reading →

This weekend we celebrate Father’s Day. A holiday that my husband refers to as an afterthought to Mother’s Day. One that had to be created to be fair; one that creates difficulty finding appropriate gifts and one that is often … Continue reading →

Today in the year 313 the Edict of Milan by the Roman Emperors Constantine and Licinius was posted in Nicomedia. The proclamation granted freedom of religion for people in the Empire which meant it was now legal to be a … Continue reading →

June – the month of brides and weddings! Ah marriage! I remember so well. I’m in love with a girl at 23. It’s bliss. We’ll be happy forever! Then reality hits! Everything that was once I, me or mine, now … Continue reading →

Each of our days, even if one is retired, has a special place in our weeks and in our lives. There are certain things we do on certain days; even rest and leisure have their schedule of rhythm. Monday is … Continue reading →

We’ve been introducing sections of Marty Haugen’s “Mass of Creation” in our Sunday worship.  You may be wondering, just who is Marty Haugen? Well, in brief, here’s his story.  Marty Haugen was born December 30, 1950, in Wanamingo, Minnesota and … Continue reading →

Just home from attending a funeral. The husband’s death was quite sudden and the wife’s life upended. Both my friend and her husband are Christians and though this was a shock, comfort enveloped the family knowing their husband and father … Continue reading →