March 24

Small in Stature—Big in Potential

All the people saw this and began to mutter, “He has gone to be the guest of a sinner” (Luke 19:7).

Scripture: Luke 19:1-10

Song: “Zacchaeus Was a Wee Little Man”

My preschool grandchildren were sincere when they insisted there are five seasons in a year. Finally, after disputing I said, “Then name them!” Sure enough, they came up with spring, summer, fall, winter, and tax season. I should have known; their mother is a CPA.

Unlike today’s tax consultants who hold an honorable place in society, tax collectors in Jesus’ time were crooks who padded their own accounts by collecting more than was due. Zacchaeus likely fit right in. In the eyes of society they were indeed “sinners.”

We’ll never know why Zacchaeus wanted to get a bird’s-eye view of the Master. Was it mere curiosity, or a desire to change? It’s amazing that Jesus singled out this sinner, even going to his home for a meal. The dinner conversation must have been humbling for Zacchaeus as he repented of his past. I wonder if a wife was involved in preparing the meal, and if so, what were her feelings? Jesus obviously saw a man whose heart and life could change. And change it did—half of Zacchaeus’ possessions would go to the poor, and anyone who had been cheated would be repaid four times over.

It is so easy to judge someone by reputation or appearance. Let’s hope instead that we can see each one’s potential for God’s kingdom.

Lord Jesus, guide me today to see others as You would have me see them in a nonjudgmental way. In Your name I pray, amen.