Zacchaeus…

What is your favorite story from the Bible? Everyone has that one story that they love and can relate to in certain situations. 

One of my favorites from my childhood was the story of Zacchaeus. I think it was the song that made me like the story the most because I loved the singing of the ‘wee little man’. 

Zacchaeus was a tax collector. Not only was he just a tax collector, but he was also the chief tax collector and had a lot of money. I find it interesting that the name Zacchaeus means ‘Pure One’. We all know that Zacchaeus was as far opposite as pure. 

One day Jesus was coming to town and Zacchaeus wanted to see Jesus. So, he climbed up in a tree so he could get a glimpse of Jesus passing by. Not only did he get a view of Jesus, Jesus came up to the tree he was in and told him to get down because he was coming over to his house. Zacchaeus was happy, like a little kid, and joyfully climbed down the tree and headed away with Jesus. 

What does this tell you? Jesus not only wanted to preach to Zacchaeus and convert him but he also wanted to develop a real relationship with him. 

What do other Christians think when they see their fellow brothers and sister in Christ hanging out with people who choose to live their life in sin? Probably like those who saw Jesus go to Zacchaeus’s house. People would think that we were doing the same thing that they were doing instead of trying to convert them or be a positive example to them. 

Jesus tells us to let people know about Him and what He has promised all of us. It seems like most of the people we talk to Christ about are already followers of Him. There are not many of us who actually tell people, like Zacchaeus, about Jesus. 

Let’s not be afraid to be seen with a sinner but make sure your intentions are Christlike when you are with them. Spread God’s love and His word. Develop a real relationship with them and bring them to Christ. 

God is Good…