Zacchaeus was vertically challenged…and resourceful.
He was unable to see Jesus among the towering crowd as He passed through Jericho, so he climbed a tree for a better vantage point.
As Jesus passed by, He called Zacchaeus by name to come down out of the tree so He could be a guest in his house.
The crowd guffawed.
He’s a sinner–why would Jesus associate with such rif-raf?
(Luke 19:1-7 reveals that Zacchaeus was a very crooked and wealthy tax collector, disliked by many.)
This passage leads me to wonder how often I’ve been Zacchaeus!?
When have I elevated myself about others?
When have I “cheated” others, not in the monetary sense but in the ways of robbing someone by withholding time, kindness, honesty, compassion, resources…
Sadly, too many times to count.
But guess what, sunshine?
There’s hope.
There’s always hope.
Jesus passes through the throng of people, laser-focused on Zacchaeus, calls his name, and invites Himself to his house.
This is when the crowd mutters…and I feel hopeful.
No matter how awful I’ve behaved or how many people I’ve “cheated” others, Jesus will always find me, and He will always love me.
My sin does not define me.
I am a child of Our Father, and so are you, dear sunshine.
“…I have called you by name; you are mine.” Is 43:1
The best part of this passage is what happens once Jesus enters Zacchaeus’ house.
Zacchaeus vows to give half of his possessions to the poor and to repay those he’s stolen from four times the amount. (Luke 19:8) Zacchaeus demonstrates inward change by outward action.
In short, it’s like this:
Zacchaeus was summoned from a higher place (pride/sin), called by name (child of The One True King) and was forever changed (salvation) for all to see (to God be all of the glory.) His sin no longer defined him (sanctification), and he lived to honor God. (transformation)
Yeah, I guess I am like Zacchaeus after all.
What about you, sunshine?
As always, if this spoke to you in any way, I’d love to hear about it. Feel free to reply to this message.
With love, |
