Why does JESUS choose to go to Zacchaeus' house, when he could have chosen the home of a more 'righteous' man? The crowd's complaint is a telling indictment against tax collectors. It was through their efforts that their people were 'robbed' of money that not only went towards the building of the despised Roman Empire, but lined their own pockets through extortion and dishonesty. Notably, Zaccheus is described as a 'chief tax collector' who was 'rich'. This is akin to calling him a 'traitor' and a 'master thief'. This is who JESUS summoned!
Something happens to the heart of Zaccheus in the presence of JESUS- salvation, repentance and restitution. The mission of Christ is inherent in his response, “...for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost,” Luke 19:10. Salvation's call is for all who would hear. What does that mean for the believer and non-believer alike?
“19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” Matthew 28:19-20
“6 Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near. 7 Let the wicked forsake their ways and the unrighteous their thoughts. Let them turn to the Lord, and he will have mercy on them, and to our God, for he will freely pardon.” Isaiah 55:6-7
“16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16
1 comment:
What I like about this account of Zacchaeus and what really stands out for me personally, is how Zacchaeus made an effort (climbed a tree) in order to see Jesus? He humbled himself. Here he was, a grown man climbing a tree like a little kid on a school playground! How people in the crowd must have laughed at him?! Yet God always rewards those who seek Him! People (generally speaking) who don't know our Lord, but who talk about their 'thoughts' and 'opinions' of how they see God and know God etc, make no real effort in order to find out what He really says or thinks? Some do, but many don't. Why? Because sin makes them hide like Adam and Eve in the garden. But, like Zacchaeus,if they (we) seek the Lord, He WILL be found -- by anyone -- saint or as in this case 'sinner'.
Let's encourage people therefore to seek Him! Make the effort! He is faithful and will show them that Jesus IS LORD, bringing glory to the Father, through the Spirit!!
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