One Story at a TimeSample

The Transformative Encounter

Luke 19:1-10 tells the story of Zacchaeus, a chief tax collector who was totally despised by society. Zacchaeus, being short, climbed a tree to see Jesus passing by. What he probably didn’t count on is Jesus noticing him and inviting Himself over. Despite the crowd's disapproval, Zacchaeus joyfully welcomed Jesus. This encounter transformed Zacchaeus, leading him to repentance and a desire to make amends for his wrongdoings. Jesus declared salvation over Zacchaeus and emphasized His mission to seek and save the lost.

When I think about the crazy streets of Jericho, I think about the hallways when I was in school with students trying to make it to class before the bell. Some students have a longer walk so they have less time to chat. Some students don’t have a next class so it’s time to hang out. Amidst the chaos of the changing of classes, imagine with me that Jesus drops in your heart that He wants to do something powerful in that moment. You may feel frantic because, after all, you have a class to get to. But also, what can Jesus possibly do right now in this craziness?

This is likely what Zacchaeus was feeling when all he wanted to do was catch a glimpse of this man named Jesus. This encounter would change his life. Zacchaeus faced two significant obstacles on his quest to see Jesus—a large crowd blocking his view and his own short stature. Yet, his determination prevailed, driving him to climb a sycamore tree just to catch a glimpse of the Messiah. Imagine his surprise when Jesus, aware of Zacchaeus' presence and longing for a connection, paused right beneath the tree and called him by name.

When Jesus reached out to Zacchaeus, it wasn't just a physical reaching; it was an invitation to experience divine love, grace, and transformation. Jesus' words, "I must stay at your house today," were laced with an unspoken promise of salvation, forgiveness, and acceptance - something Zacchaeus was void of. The crowd murmured in disapproval, unable to comprehend how Jesus would choose to spend time with a sinner.

Overwhelmed by the love and presence of the Savior, Zacchaeus welcomed Jesus gladly into his home. This encounter with Jesus shattered the barriers of his heart, leading to a radical transformation. In an instant, he experienced the power of repentance and the joy of being reconciled with God.

Let us take comfort in knowing that we, too, can experience a transformative encounter with Jesus. Regardless of our shortcomings or past mistakes, His love is greater than our failures. Like Zacchaeus, we can respond with humility and surrender, opening our hearts to the life-altering grace of our Savior.

Here’s what we know – even though society saw him as an outcast, Zacchaeus was looking for Jesus. Every day at school, we are surrounded by people that are different than us. Some of them may even be considered outcasts. In your mind, there may be significant barriers between them and their road to Jesus. There may be personality boundaries or family hurt that puts a huge, theoretical sycamore tree in their way. However, brokenness tends to lead people to search for something. Broken people are always searching. Look for people that are searching.

May we take this story and as we walk through the hallways at school, realize that there’s a Zacchaeus rounding every corner. Someone is hurting. Someone is broken. Someone is feeling like an outcast. Let us emulate Jesus' example, showing love and acceptance to those deemed unworthy or overlooked by society. Through our actions and attitudes, may we reflect the transformative power of Jesus, reaching one person at a time and leading them into an encounter with the loving Savior who can change their lives forever.

Prayer for today:

God, I see the fact that You care for people despite how society sees them. Thank You for showing me in Your Word that You have a heart for people that others see as unworthy. Thank You for Your love, mercy, and grace for me as I journey through life. Help me to have the strength to show that same love, mercy, and grace for people around me. Help me to see the people that are searching for You. Help me to see the people the same way You saw Zacchaeus. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.