Stories through the Wilderness

The Power of Baptism
Faith Story Series Jessica Pavelko Faith Story Series Jessica Pavelko

The Power of Baptism

Baptism has always been more than a ritual to me—it’s a promise of freedom. When I was thirteen, standing in the small sanctuary of our family church, I didn’t yet understand what it meant to die to self. I thought faith was about being good, following rules, and staying strong. Years later, I’ve learned it’s about surrender—letting go of control, fear, and pride so that God can make something new from what’s been broken.

Dying to self isn’t losing who we are; it’s finding freedom in who we were always meant to be.

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Faith, Fear, and Breast Cancer
Mental Health and Healing Jessica Pavelko Mental Health and Healing Jessica Pavelko

Faith, Fear, and Breast Cancer

This October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month feels more personal than ever. After finding a lump, I’ve been navigating a mix of fear, faith, and deep reflection. My journey isn’t just about waiting for test results—it’s about confronting old grief, remembering my mom’s battle with breast cancer, and learning to trust God’s peace in the midst of uncertainty. Whether this turns out to be nothing or something more, I know this: fear loses its power when we bring it into the light.

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