Gospel
1 At that time Jesus came to Jericho and intended to pass through the town. 2 Now a man there named Zacchaeus, who was a chief tax collector and also a wealthy man, 3 was seeking to see who Jesus was; but he could not see him because of the crowd, for he was short in stature. 4 So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree in order to see Jesus, who was about to pass that way. 5 When he reached the place, Jesus looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down quickly, for today I must stay at your house.” 6 And he came down quickly and received him with joy. 7 When they all saw this, they began to grumble, saying, “He has gone to stay at the house of a sinner.” 8 But Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, “Behold, half of my possessions, Lord, I shall give to the poor, and if I have extorted anything from anyone I shall repay it four times over.” 9 And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house because this man too is a descendant of Abraham. 10 For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save what was lost.”
Historical Background
Jericho was a wealthy trade hub under Herod, famous for balsam and palm groves. It had a customs house where taxes were collected for Rome.
Zacchaeus was chief among the tax collectors, likely overseeing revenue farming for Rome. Tax collectors were despised by Jews for collaborating with the empire and often accused of corruption. Being short, Zacchaeus climbed a sycamore tree to see Jesus. This detail reflects eyewitness memory and also highlights his humility—an act socially unusual for a wealthy official.
“Zacchaeus” (Hebrew Zakkai) means “pure,” ironically contrasting with his reputation as a sinner.
Theological Context
This episode illustrates Luke’s theme of Jesus as the one who “came to seek and save the lost” . Zacchaeus embodies the marginalized—wealthy yet spiritually excluded.
Jesus chooses to stay in Zacchaeus’ house, defying public opinion and priestly expectations. This shows God’s grace reaching beyond societal boundaries. Zacchaeus pledges to give half his wealth to the poor and repay fourfold anyone he defrauded. His response reflects genuine conversion—faith expressed in justice and mercy.
Jesus calls Zacchaeus a “son of Abraham,” affirming his covenant identity despite social rejection. Salvation restores him to the community of God’s people.
Learning Lessons
Salvation is available to everyone, regardless of their past. No one is beyond the reach of God's grace. By calling Zacchaeus a "son of Abraham," Jesus affirms his inclusion in God's family. This reminds us that faith, not heritage or social status, determines our place in God's kingdom.
Zacchaeus' encounter with Jesus led to a significant change in his life. This teaches us that a genuine encounter with Jesus can transform our lives and lead us to repentance and renewal. The word "today" highlights the immediate impact of Zacchaeus' faith and repentance. It encourages us to respond to Jesus' call without delay, knowing that His grace is available to us right now.
Reflecting on this verse can inspire us to embrace the transformative power of Jesus' love and to recognize the inclusivity of God's grace.
Reflection for the Day
Zacchaeus sought to see Jesus, but it was Jesus who called him by name and entered his home. His transformation was not just internal but visible in his actions—generosity and restitution. Jesus’ willingness to dine with a “sinner” challenges us to extend hospitality and mercy beyond social prejudices.
Our salvation begins with God’s gracious pursuit. Faith must bear fruit in justice and compassion. We may feel small, excluded, or burdened by past choices. Yet Christ calls us by name, offering restoration and joy. Let us open our hearts and homes to Christ, allowing His presence to transform our lives into channels of generosity, reconciliation, and hope.
Today salvation graced this home,
A sinner's heart no longer roams.
For in the eyes of Christ, we see,
A son of Abraham set free.
From heights of trees to depths of grace,
Zacchaeus found his rightful place.
With faith renewed and heart contrite,
He welcomed Jesus, love's pure light.
No past too dark, no soul too lost,
For Jesus paid the ultimate cost.
In every heart, His love can bloom,
Dispelling shadows, lifting gloom.
Today, let every heart rejoice,
In Jesus' name, lift up your voice.
For salvation's gift is here to stay,
In every home, in every way.
Lord Jesus,
We thank You for the gift of salvation that You bring into our lives. Just as You brought salvation to Zacchaeus' house, we ask that You come into our hearts and homes, transforming us with Your grace and love.
Help us to recognize that we are all children of Abraham, included in Your family through faith. May we embrace this truth and live in a way that reflects Your love and acceptance of all people.
Grant us the courage to seek You earnestly, just as Zacchaeus did, and to welcome You with joy and repentance. Let Your presence in our lives bring about a profound transformation, leading us to live righteously and generously.
We praise You for Your endless mercy and the salvation You offer to everyone. May we always remember that Your grace is available to us today and every day.
Amen.
Pericope:
V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative
ZACCHAEUS THE TAX COLLECTOR
Luke 19:1-10
Gospel Acclamation
God loved us, and sent his Son as expiation for our sins.
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot
Published:
November 19, 2024, 6:38 AM
