Listen

Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through town. A man there named Zacchaeus, a ruler among tax collectors, was rich. He was trying to see who Jesus was, but, being a short man, he couldn’t because of the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed up a sycamore tree so he could see Jesus, who was about to pass that way. When Jesus came to that spot, he looked up and said, “Zacchaeus, come down at once. I must stay in your home today.” So Zacchaeus came down at once, happy to welcome Jesus.

Everyone who saw this grumbled, saying, “He has gone to be the guest of a sinner.”

Luke 19:1-7

Think

Leave it to Jesus to offer radical grace. I love this story because it reveals the heart of our Lord. Now listen carefully here. Jesus loves and cares for ALL. Not just those who read the Bible and go to Sunday School, not just those who are a certain color, who love, look, and practice their faith the way we do.

It is so clear here. Jesus responds to Zacchaeus, someone thought to be a sinner – someone who had abused his position for personal gain. Zacchaeus made an effort, and Jesus responded.

Are you feeling too different to be loved? Too “sinful”, too unattractive, too left out? I’ve got wonderful news! Step forward in faith, and Jesus will respond. Don’t believe anyone who tells you otherwise.

Bill Ogletree

Pray

Faithful God, help me to follow the example of Zacchaeus and to step out in faith.

Help me to turn from old ways and beliefs to an openness to following Jesus.

Amen.

Go

Leave this time, ripe for new possibilities.

Step out of the methodical approach to serving God and into an authentic, intentional faith.

“Make yourselves holy! Tomorrow the Lord will do wonderful things among you.” (Joshua 3:5)