Zaccheus Found

Thursday, March 29 – Read Luke 19:1-10

Once again, Jesus stops everything he is doing to notice someone who is outcast and to invite him back into the circle of God’s love. In this case, it is Zaccheus, a chief tax collector and a man both hated and feared for his wealth and power. Zaccheus had many other tax collectors working under him in the region around Jericho. As a result he was at the top of a pyramid that brought him income from many sources. Since he worked for the Roman occupiers, he was seen as a traitor. Jesus risked great criticism for stopping to talk with him and then for going to his house. But in the end, Zaccheus is restored to his place in the Jewish community as a son of Abraham and he gives half of his goods to the poor and pays off anyone he has cheated four times more than he has taken.

Reflection Questions: Who do you identify with in this story? Zaccheus? Jesus? Those in the crowd who grumble? Those in the crowd who are happy to receive compensation? Why?

Prayer: Dear God, bless you that your love is not reserved for those who always do the right thing, but that you love even sinners while we are stuck in our sins. Amen.