Drawing from Isaiah 9:2, 6–7, Symia Stigler presents a message of love made tangible—God did not send a theory or a concept, but His very Son. This love not only arrives, it carries us, with Christ’s shoulders symbolizing the strength to bear our burdens. Advent reaches its fulfillment in this love that stepped into our world and will never let us go.

In this Advent message, William Leung reflects on Isaiah 9:2, 6–7, centering on the promise, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given.” He explains that true joy springs from God’s gift, not changing circumstances. Joy is rooted in the nearness of God rather than an easy life. Even in seasons of waiting, believers can rejoice, trusting that God’s promised salvation is already on the way, bringing hope, peace and joy.

In Isaiah 9:2, 6–7, Ericka Houston reminds us that the promised child is our Prince of Peace—the One whose presence brings wholeness even when life feels unsettled. True peace isn’t found in avoiding conflict but in welcoming Christ into every storm, inside and out. During Advent, we remember that God’s kingdom ushers in lasting shalom, a deep and enduring peace that begins now and grows with the light of His coming.

In Isaiah 9:2, 6–7, Molly Diehl reminds us that those who walk in darkness are met by a promised light—one that breaks through long before the sun fully rises. Darkness never gets the last word because God’s faithfulness secures our hope. This hope isn’t fragile or wishful; it’s steady and sure. In Advent, we learn to look for the first glimmers of Christ’s coming light, trusting that God’s promise is already dawning.

Rooted in Colossians 3:23–24 and Ephesians 2:10, Scripture invites us to align their career and calling with God’s greater mission. Ayo Akinkuowo explores how to pursue ambition without losing sight of Kingdom values, recognizing that true purpose goes beyond a paycheck. We are God’s workmanship, created for good works wherever we serve, and called to bring Christ into our workplaces and communities. When our work reflects Him, our daily tasks become meaningful acts of worship.

Building a Christ-centered family begins with intentionally grounding the home in God’s truth, as reflected in Joshua 24:14–15 and Deuteronomy 6:4–9. Jessica Alarcon calls parents to lead by example—living out their faith daily through prayer, Scripture, shared meals, and acts of service. She encourages families to find healing from generational patterns through Christ’s love and to model integrity for children and teens.

D’Andre Berry invites us to align the heart by returning to our first love. Before we can align our families, work, or future, our hearts must be fully aligned with God: rekindling passion for God amid midlife busyness, guarding against spiritual drift, and aligning desires with His will.

The Book of Esther reveals God’s unseen hand at work, even when His name isn’t mentioned. Through Esther’s courage and Mordecai’s faith, God delivers His people from destruction and turns sorrow into joy. It’s a powerful reminder that divine purpose can unfold through ordinary people and unexpected circumstances. Nate Houston shares how this story calls us to trust God’s timing, stand with courage, and believe that He positions us “for such a time as this.

Dr. David Nystrom concludes with Esther chapters 8–10, where the story shifts from threat to triumph. Esther and Mordecai, now honored, secure the king’s decree allowing God’s people to defend themselves. What began in fear ends in joy, as sorrow is turned to celebration through the feast of Purim. Dr. Nystrom underscores how God redeems and restores, working through His people to bring deliverance. These final chapters remind us of God’s faithfulness and the hope found in His providence.

Dr. David Nystrom continues with Esther chapters 3 and 4, where the story intensifies through Haman’s plot to destroy the Jews and Mordecai’s courageous response. He shows how fear, pride, and injustice collide with faith and resolve. Esther is challenged to risk her life by stepping into her calling “for such a time as this.” Dr. Nystrom underscores how God works through crisis, urging us to recognize moments when faith requires courage and obedience beyond comfort.

Dr. David Nystrom opens the study of Esther by exploring chapters 1 and 2, where power, pride, and providence intersect. He highlights King Xerxes’ arrogance, Queen Vashti’s courage, and Esther’s unexpected rise to influence. Though God’s name is not mentioned, His presence is evident in the unfolding circumstances. Dr. Nystrom emphasizes how these early chapters invite us to trust God’s hidden hand at work, reminding us that ordinary people and unseen moments shape His greater purposes.

In this introduction to a six-part study on the book of Esther, Pastor Meeks highlights four key truths: God is great at getting us back on course, we are given daily opportunities to exalt Him and advance His kingdom, we don’t know the full picture of God’s plan, and our task is to stay sensitive and obedient to His leading. Anchored in Esther 1:1-3 and 4:12-14, this study invites deep reflection and trust.

In Acts 28:23–31, Paul’s final recorded ministry in Rome reminds us that the gospel cannot be stopped. From his home under guard, he boldly proclaimed Christ from the Scriptures, some believed while others rejected. Pastor Meeks shares that even amid resistance, Paul declared salvation open to all, including the Gentiles. For two years he preached the kingdom of God “with all boldness and without hindrance.” His witness challenges us to live with the same courage and confidence today.

In this message from Acts 28:17–22, Pastor Meeks unpacks Paul’s heartfelt defense before the Jewish leaders in Rome. Though falsely accused, Paul seizes the moment to point them toward the hope of Israel—Jesus Christ. His example challenges us to remain faithful when misunderstood, to speak truth with grace, and to see every trial as an opportunity for witness.

This Worship X-plosion takes us into Luke 6:27–36, where Jesus calls us to a love that defies human instinct: loving our enemies. D’Andre Berry and Maria Morales unpack this life-changing passage with wisdom and authenticity, offering encouragement and challenge for our daily walk.

In Acts 28:11–16, Paul’s journey to Rome reminds us of God’s faithfulness. Despite storms, shipwreck, and trials, Paul reaches his destination. Along the way, he receives encouragement from fellow believers who meet and strengthen him. Pastor Meeks shares the message that God always provides community, comfort, and courage for the road ahead.

Watch, listen and share as Pastor Meeks shares from Acts 28:1–10. Paul’s shipwreck on Malta shows that even detours carry divine purpose. Through God’s providence, power, provision, and preparation, setbacks become platforms for ministry. Discover how God can turn your “Malta moments” into opportunities for His greater work.

In Acts 27:27-44, through Paul’s example in the storm, we see that God’s Word always holds true—every life on the ship was spared just as He promised. Pastor Meeks reminds us that God’s faithfulness never fails. In the same way, we’re called to anchor our hearts in His promises, stand with courage, trust His sovereignty, and patiently wait for His deliverance in the midst of our own storms.

In Acts 27:13–26, the apostle Paul and his companions face a fierce storm while sailing to Rome. Despite the danger, Paul offers both admonition and reassurance, urging the crew to take heart. Ayo Akinkuowo highlights how Paul’s unwavering faith in God’s promise anchors his courage. Though the ship will be lost, Paul assures them that all lives will be spared. His example calls us to trust God’s word even in life’s most turbulent storms.

As Paul sets sail for Rome under guard, Pastor Meeks highlights how, even in the midst of hardship and uncertainty, God remains present and active. This passage reminds us that God’s servants must be attuned to His voice—especially when worldly advice seems more convenient or popular. In moments of danger or delay, obedience to God's leading becomes critical to navigating life's storms.