Why do we keep repeating the same cycles in our relationships with those closest to us—even when we desperately want change? In John 5, Jesus asks a man who had been stuck for 38 years a confronting question: “Do you want to get well?”

This message challenges the lies we believe, the excuses we cling to, and the patterns that quietly keep us stuck. Healing is possible—but it often requires movement, honesty, and a willingness to do something different. If you’re ready to stop repeating the past and step into real freedom, this message is for you.

VERSES // John 5v1-9, Romans 12v2

Christmas Eve Message At Church Story with Pastor Wes Jackson

What if Christmas isn’t just a season—but the greatest love story ever told? The most famous love stories often end in loss, separation, or death. The Christmas story is different. It doesn’t begin with “once upon a time”—it begins with “For God so loved the world.” And unlike every other love story, this one doesn’t end at the grave.

In this message, you’ll hear how the arrival of Jesus reveals the unconditional, sacrificial love of God—a love that existed before time began, entered our broken world, and continues to pursue us today. Christmas boldly answers one of our deepest questions:

Does God really love me?

The answer is a resounding YES!

VERSES // 1 John 4v7-21; Galatians 4v4-5; John 3v16-17; Isaiah 9v6

What do you do when life doesn’t turn out the way you hoped—especially during the Christmas season? 

In this Advent message, we’ll look at the arrival of Jesus and the good news of great joy announced to ordinary shepherds in the middle of unmet expectations, uncertainty, and hardship. Christmas reminds us that joy isn’t found in perfect circumstances—it’s found in the presence of a Savior who chose to step into our mess.

Whether you’re carrying disappointment, grief, anxiety, or exhaustion, this message explores how joy is more than an emotion—it’s a choice, rooted in the good news of what God has done for us in Christ.

If life feels like it’s falling apart, this message is for you.

VERSES // Luke 2v8-20, Acts 2v2, Acts 9v3, 2 Corinthians 7v4, Colossians 1v24, James 1v2, Philippians 3v8, Hebrews 12v2

In a season covered in the word peace, many of us feel anything but peaceful. Anxiety, pressure, fear, and the weight of the world can overwhelm the soul. But Jesus, the Prince of Peace, promises a peace the world can’t give and the world can’t take away. In week two of Advent, Wes Jackson unpacks why peace feels so elusive, and how surrender—not control—is the surprising pathway to a restful soul.

If you’re anxious, overwhelmed, or longing for peace, this message is for you.

VERSES // John 14v27; Luke 2v14; Isaiah 9v6; 2 Corinthians 5v21; Isaiah 26v3; Proverbs 3v5-6; Philippians 4v6-9

In this Advent message, we explore how hope isn’t something we wait to feel; it is Someone who has already come near. When life feels delayed, heavy, or uncertain, Advent reminds us that Jesus steps directly into the places that seem hopeless. We look at how His arrival in a broken world reveals God’s timing, presence, and promise. And we discover that because Jesus came once, hope is already breaking in right now, and one day, Jesus will return to make all things new.

What if the frustration you’re feeling is the very thing God is using to form something valuable in you? In part nine of Grit & Grace, you will discover why patience isn’t passive—it’s endurance. It’s the middle space between desire and fulfillment where God does His deepest work.

VERSES // James 5v7-20

Are you a planner? How do you respond when your plans change unexpectedly? In part eight of Grit & Grace, a study through the book of James, you find out how to live with a healthy perspective toward plans for your future, with emphasis on your wealth.

VERSES // James 4v13-5v6

A practical message from James 4 on overcoming conflict, pride, and division by choosing humility and God’s way of peace.

VERSES // James 4:1-12

Words have power—to build or to destroy. James 3 warns that the tongue, though small, can set the direction for your whole life. Discover how to take control of your words before they take control of you.

SCRIPTURE // James 3v1-18, Matthew 12v34, Matthew 15v19

YOUR WORDS ARE POWERFUL.

With great power comes great responsibility

YOUR WORDS ARE PROBLEMATIC.

One small word at the wrong time can be incredibly dangerous

Words bring wounds

Though small, your words hold the power of life and death.

Wild animals can be tamed by humans, yet your tongue cannot.

Try this test for the next seven days:

Do not complain.

Do not boast.

Do not gossip.

Do not criticize.

Do not defend or excuse yourself.

Always affirm.

YOUR WORDS ARE PRODUCED BY YOUR HEART.

Our tongue problem is a heart problem.

If you want to change your words, change your heart.

Practical Next Steps:

BE SLOW TO SPEAK

Before speaking, ask yourself:

Is it true?

Is it helpful?

Is it inspiring?

Is it necessary?

Is it kind?

BE QUICK TO SAY, “I’M SORRY”

SHARE LIFE-GIVING WORDS

Challenge: Choose one person in your life and speak encouragement every day for the next seven days. Use a text message, a phone call, email, or hand-written note.

RECEIVE PEACE