Ask, Seek, Knock
Just about everyone has heard of the Golden Rule. (They just might not know it comes from Scripture!) “Do to others what you would have them do to you” (Matthew 7:12). This encouragement is a timeless beauty and according to Jesus it also “sums up the Law and the prophets”—That’s quite a statement! Even though all of Mosaic Law and its writings could be summarized this way, the Cliff notes were not enough. The rule needed to be embodied by Jesus as He lived it out in the world for the disciples to see, experience, and eventually capture in the New Testament.
The disciples had varied backgrounds, convictions, and opinions, yet Jesus called them together to learn from Him and knit together with divine wisdom into a new kind of people. The way of the world is to think of and protect yourself at all costs, but the way of Jesus is to think of others and protect them as if they were your own being.
In their time with Jesus, the disciples witnessed a gentle and lowly way that included asking a lot of questions, seeking the heart matter, and opening doors of freedom and healing. Relationship doesn’t ever work when it’s forced… it can’t. So how can we model the way of Jesus in relationships—even when they are hard and disagreements threaten to divide? We can ask good questions without a critical judgemental heart. We can seek to understand a perspective and not immediately dismiss it. And finally, we can knock sensitively on areas (doors) of people's lives asking for permission to enter to provide wisdom and help. Afterall, isn’t this how you would want to be treated? The Kingdom of God makes its way into the everyday as the way of Jesus is lived out in all our relationships… wouldn’t that be golden?
Jessica Klootwyk
Discipleship Director
Pigs & Pearls
Matthew 7:6 (NIV) Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces.
A curious Bible verse for sure. Dogs and pigs and pearls?? What is Jesus teaching us with this verse that fits between a warning about judging others, hypocrisy, and a reminder to pray persistently as we ask, seek, and knock?
It reminds me of Jesus in Mark chapter 6. He sends his disciples out to preach “the Kingdom of Heaven is near”, to heal the sick and drive out demons…. His instructions were, “take nothing for the journey except a staff, no bread, no bag, no money in your belt.” His disciples were traveling with a treasure more precious than money or possessions—they had the most precious pearl ever—the good news of the Kingdom of Heaven, the grace of God. Jesus continues, “Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you leave that town. And if any place will not welcome you or listen to you, shake the dust off your feet when you leave as a testimony against them.”
It’s foolish to entrust holy things to unholy people, people who refuse to recognize the value of the gift you’re trying to give.
It happened to Jesus as well. He went to his hometown, Nazareth with his disciples. He taught in their synagogue and some were amazed, but many doubted the wisdom with which he taught. Those who’d known Jesus as a toddler, a young boy, an awkward teenager… it says they took offense at him!
And Jesus remarked, “Only in his hometown, among his relatives and in his own house is a prophet without honor……He was amazed at their lack of faith.”
Like pigs and dogs, animals with zero understanding, they lacked faith and missed that the holy one, the gift of God, his precious perfect Son—the pearl—was right there before them.
Faith is what Jesus came looking for, hearts that were open, eyes that could see, and ears that could hear. The Kingdom of Heaven is for those with faith, willing to trust and follow Jesus.
In Matthew 13, Jesus says the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it. The Merchant--unlike the dogs or the pigs--the merchant was looking, searching for, and knew the immense value of the pearl when he found it.
God, we praise you today for the precious gift of the Son, and salvation by grace, through faith.
Donielle Winter EFCC Member
Planks and Specks
Matthew 7:3-5 3 "Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the plank that is in your own eye? 4 Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye."
Can you imagine having a 2 x 4 in your eye? Me either–but I’m pretty sure Jesus wanted to make it very clear that it’s much easier to see something wrong with our neighbor, spouse, coworker etc., than to see what is wrong with ourselves.
The saying "the fault we find in others is usually our own" means that when we criticize or become bothered by a particular trait in someone else, it could reflect a similar trait that we might be subconsciously struggling with within ourselves, acting as a kind of mirror to our own shortcomings. Or more simply, when I find fault with someone else, it is usually because I’m not happy with myself in some way.
Yes, we are supposed to hold each other accountable, but I believe that once again Jesus is reminding us not to be hypocrites.
Things aren’t always what they seem. Do we know their full story? Or are we jumping to conclusions? “Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment” (John 7:24, ESV) What if we focused on building each other up rather than finding fault?
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up … 1 Thessalonians 5:11. Even as I write this, I wonder if I have been doing this as much as I could or should. Do I notice people around me who might need a word of encouragement?
Our words and actions can instill hope, reminding them of God’s unwavering love and presence. Whether it's offering a listening ear, sharing a word of encouragement, or simply being there, your support can make a huge difference in someone's journey.
We can pray for the person regardless and ask for discernment and an opening to talk to them if we feel so led. Then it will come from a place of love and concern, not judgment. But maybe, just maybe, in our conversation with the Lord, something will be revealed that we need to deal with ourselves first.
Deb Hill
Exec. Assistant
Crossroads: Discernment vs. Condemnation
Matthew 7
Have you ever noticed that not all parking spots are created equal? I remember being a new driver and thinking I was much better than I was. There was a brief window of time when I’d confidently cut through traffic and park right in front of the store, thinking I could squeeze into the tightest spaces. Once, in front of Major Market, I misjudged my skill and ended up bumping my car into the tire of the one parked next to me. Luckily, there was no damage, and the driver got out laughing, saying, “I knew there was no way you could make that spot!” His response wasn’t to condemn my error but to show understanding and humor instead of judgment.
This experience brings me to a question: Have you ever been at the crossroads of discerning how to respond or quickly condemning a situation?
In Matthew 7, Jesus shows us how to handle these crossroads. Whether speaking to the Samaritan woman at the well or confronting those misusing the temple, Jesus always began with discernment. He reminds us that we’ve been given minds to think, hearts to feel, and the ability to lean into each moment to glorify God with our actions.
Yet, we sometimes misunderstand Jesus' teachings on judgment. People often quote, “Judge not, that you be not judged,” with good intentions. But Jesus doesn’t mean for us to shut off our brains or abandon our ability to discern what’s right or wrong. Instead, He reminds us to recognize our own biases and flaws—our “specks and logs” (verses 3-5)—so we can see clearly. He calls us to discern both within the church and outside it, knowing when to speak and when to hold back, letting the Holy Spirit guide our responses.
Despite our best intentions, we still sometimes misstep, letting condemnation slip through or failing to discern a situation fully. Like my minor parking accident, we may find ourselves misjudging a turn or misreading the moment. But at each crossroads we face, may we seek Jesus’ guidance. When we ask for His help, He’s always there, ready to guide us.
I am praying that He is directing you at your crossroads. If you ever need guidance, just call out to Him. Praying for you all.
Pastor Jeremy Johnson
Did Jesus Teach Karma?
This is not what Jesus is teaching. Karma says that evil can never be defeated, but Jesus came to defeat evil once and for all on the cross. Jesus consistently taught us to live in such a way that others “see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). Jesus did not assume that somewhere, somehow, in this life or the next, that good and evil need to be balanced. Instead, Jesus knew that we could join him in overcoming evil with good (see also Romans 12:21). He knew that a potentially infinite amount of good would come about because of the evil perpetrated on Himself on the cross. Jesus was assured that there would be a day when evil would be no more. I long for that day!
Josh Rose
Family Pastor
Shining Christ’s Love in Our Neighborhoods
When Jesus tells us to be “salt” and “light,” He isn’t commanding us to preach from rooftops or force conversions. Rather, He’s calling us to shine by reflecting His love and goodness in our actions. Just as salt brings out the best in food, our genuine care and service can bring out the best in our communities. Just as light dispels darkness, our kindness can brighten the lives of those around us, revealing the presence of Jesus through acts of love.
In ministry, we’ve witnessed this countless times. Through Love Esco in Escondido, we roll up our sleeves and work side by side with our neighbors, doing projects like cleaning parks and creating spaces for the community. In El Cajon, after hours spent helping Middle Eastern refugee families move, we sit together on the floor, sharing meals and building connections. In these moments, people often ask, “Why do you do this?” Our actions shine Christ’s light without words, revealing a love that is deep, genuine, and unmistakably different.
This kind of love - a love without conditions, agendas, or expectations - points people to Jesus. We may never know how our actions impact others’ hearts, but as we continue to love our neighbors, we offer a glimpse of His grace and goodness. In doing so, we live out Jesus’ words: to be salt and light, guiding others toward the hope we have in Him.
Karina
Outreach Team
There is No Better Day than Today
How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” - Romans 10:14-15
I remember clearly when I was called to missions in a third-world country. I immediately said yes because I knew the Lord was calling me, but that didn’t mean I wasn’t scared. As we rode the bus to Ethiopia's first village, I was nervous. I feared I’d say the wrong words or make a cultural faux pas. My oldest son, who was eight then, was with me on the trip, and he boldly shared the gospel in the first home we visited. Everyone in that house put their faith in Jesus!
Was it because my eight-year-old eloquently delivered the words we had practiced? Of course not! He did a phenomenal job, but the power of the gospel isn’t in the words we say or dependent on our delivery. The power of the gospel is in the gospel itself!
When people put their faith in Christ we immediately teach them to share the story of Jesus, then we encourage them to tell a neighbor or family member. There is nothing more exciting than going back the next day and meeting a loved one who prayed to receive Christ with a brand new believer.
So often we hesitate to share the gospel because we’re afraid we might say the wrong thing or we wonder if we are equipped. If you believe in Jesus’ death and resurrection and trust Him as your Savior, you are not only equipped but commanded to share! The Great Commission is for all believers, and we are called to share with all people: the ones who live next door and the ones who live on the other side of the world!
On a subsequent trip, an 83-year-old team member beamed with joy when she announced, “I led someone to the Lord for the first time today!”
Whether you’re 8 or 83, a brand new believer, or someone who has known the Lord for years, there is no better day than today to share the love of Jesus.
Who will you share it with?
Alli Sonnier
The Outreach Team
Authentic Light
“You are the light of the world.” Matthew 5:14
Years ago, one of my best friends moved to Missouri. I flew out for a quick visit soon after she got settled. It was spring and we decided to open all the windows in her new home to let in fresh air. That night we flipped on the lights and hundreds of tiny bugs immediately flew up to the ceiling and attached themselves to the canned lights. We’d never seen anything like it! Missouri bugs are small enough to get through screens. Who knew? And why are bugs drawn to light anyway? Scientists suggest that natural light- the moon and the stars act as a guide to point insects up to the sky. However, artificial light- like canned lights- confuses their navigational system causing them to get stuck.
Jesus calls those who follow him “the light of the world.” Authentic light. True light. Light that guides in the dark, overwhelming circumstances. As followers of Jesus, we have a great calling and privilege to reflect His light- His love, His truth, His grace- to our families, our friends, our neighbors, and our coworkers.
Scripture gives us a guide on how to go about this. We have to start by tapping into the source of genuine light by spending regular time praying and meditating on God’s truths. In John 8, Jesus says, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” Regularly connecting with the source of light, fuels our ability to be light. As our connection to God deepens and Jesus’ light impacts us, we naturally begin to reflect it to those around us. As a result, our connection to each other grows too. 1 John 1:7 states: “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.”
How is God asking you to reflect His light? Maybe it’s slowing down a bit, taking a deep breath, and asking Him to help you to see those around you as He does. Maybe it’s setting aside time to reconnect with an old friend. Perhaps it’s finding opportunities to love those with needs in our community. LoveEsco is a great place to get some ideas!
So today, let’s make it a priority to be intentional about reflecting the authentic light of Jesus.
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16
Megan Donovan
The Outreach Team
Jesus' Salty Crew
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.”
When I was in 6th grade, my overly enthusiastic history teacher decided to make the unit on Ancient Egypt something we would never forget: we mummified fryer chickens and then held an Egyptian burial behind our classroom. My chicken, King Cluck, received the royal burial treatment of being rubbed down in table salt and packed into a plastic bin. We performed this ritual once a week for a month, preserving the (raw) chicken. I remember being kind of grossed out, kind of intrigued, but I also remember that our raw chicken did not rot or mold. The salt preserved them remarkably well!
In Jesus’ time, salt was used for this same purpose- and was essential for preserving food. Salt was so associated with preservation that it is mentioned back in the Old Testament as an indicator of God’s enduring, covenantal promises. Salt was a symbol for God’s covenant with Israel- an indicator of Israel’s partnership with God to preserve life on the earth. When Israel violated that covenant, God allowed other nations to conquer and oppress them.
So in Matthew 5, Jesus is announcing a renewal of saltiness! “You are the salt of the earth”- through Jesus, we can experience the blessings God intended for us. Being the salt of the earth is not just about what we do, but who we are.
I asked my kids if they thought salt could ever lose its saltiness as this passage suggests. “NO!” they insisted. “Salt is salty- it’s what makes it salt.” So, in a line of comedic rhetoric, as Bible scholar Tim Mackie suggests, salt can’t lose its saltiness, light can’t be dark, and a city on a hill can’t be hidden. We are either salty or we’re not. This sets up the rest of Matthew 5 so perfectly- where Jesus tells us what it means to be part of his Kingdom. He’s declaring that He is making a new thing and He is restoring an old promise. This healed and whole community of disciples is Jesus’ ‘salty crew,’ through which God’s enduring promises will move forward.
Gosh- isn’t the Bible fun? We can meditate on salt and see how living as part of Jesus’ Kingdom as renewed and redeemed people is part of God’s great plan.
Anna Nielsen
Outreach Team
Your life is a story that points people to God
Matthew 5:13-16 (NIV)
This week's passage includes two beautiful and timeless metaphors from the famous Sermon on the Mount - the manifesto of Jesus and His Kingdom.
You are the salt of the earth . . .You are the light of the world...
I’m pretty sure the crowds of his followers gathered on the hilly shores of Lake Galilee loved the metaphors as much as we do, but they probably gasped with surprise and a good deal of skepticism at the fact that Jesus was directing these words at them. Wait, I am the salt of the earth? I am the light of the world. Have you met me?!
I can relate.
The fact remains that Jesus directed these words at a rather random collection of ordinary people in the rural backwaters of the Roman Empire. He wasn’t addressing powerful senators in Rome or educated religious leaders in Jerusalem. His message is both clear and revolutionary - my Kingdom is different. Everyone who is a part of my Kingdom will be salt and light. Or to put it in more contemporary language - in my Kingdom, everyday people are the influencers.
This includes you and me.
It’s an identity. You are to be different. In this world but not of it. Bringing Kingdom-flavored qualities to the world around you without losing your saltiness or hiding your light.
It gives us purpose. You are to make a difference. Making things right. Bringing the reality of the Kingdom to the world around you.
It’s part of God’s mission. Your life is a story that points people to God. When they see your good works, they will glorify your Father in heaven.
So, before you start your day, take a minute to remember who you are and what you are here for. Then with that Kingdom mindset, pray through your schedule today… all the places you will be, all the people you will see…
YOU are the salt God spread in those places
YOU are the light he positioned for these people to see.
YOU are the influencer.
How will your life point them to God today?
Luke B.
Outreach