Reflection on Luke 19:1-10

Scripture
“For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”

Observation
As Jesus passes through Jericho, a wealthy tax collector called Zaccheus tries to get a look at Jesus. He climbs a tree to see over the crowd.

Jesus looks up and sees Zaccheus and invites himself to his place. The righteous people are miffed that Jesus should choose someone they disapprove of.

But Zaccheus shows his true heart by promising to give away all his ill-gotten wealth. Jesus responds by saying, “Salvation has come to this home today.”

Application
It seems that Jesus was always on the lookout for people who were willing to receive Him regardless of their social class. He was equally at home with the poor, the wealthy, the religious and the marginalised.

This story is about a man who would today be labelled in the media as a “colourful business identity.” Can such a person be saved? This story shows that even rip-off merchants, stand-over men and rich people can come into the Kingdom.

Prayer
Lord, you delight to save the most unlikely people. Help me to see people from your perspective and not according to my preconceptions and prejudices. Amen.