Faith & Love: A One Year Bible Reading Plan - Part 8Sample

Jesus encounters people right where they are. We see Him do this with Zacchaeus, the chief tax collector. Many things have changed since biblical times, but one thing remains: no one likes a tax collector.

Jesus sees Zacchaeus, calls him by name, and invites Himself over for a meal.

Let’s quickly stop here. Let’s make it personal.

You may think that you’re invisible and that nobody sees you, but trust me; when I say “God sees you,” not only does He see you, He knows your name and wants to spend time with you.

After this encounter with Jesus, Zacchaeus is compelled to give generously to the poor and restore everything to those he had cheated.

Jesus went out of His way to connect with people whom others avoided – the tax collector, the Samaritan woman, the outcasts of society. He listened to their stories and showed them compassion. He gave each of them an opportunity to encounter His love.

The hurting people in our world need to encounter the uncommon love of Jesus. How will they know if we don't share it with them? It starts with a simple act of love. Why not start today? God wants to hang out with you. He wants to spend time with you. Will you let Him?