Zacchaeus … was seeking to see who Jesus was. (Luke 19:2, 3)
Valentine Opondo
Meditation: Luke 19:1-10
Saint Rose Philippine Duchesne, Virgin
Zacchaeus … was seeking to see who Jesus was. (Luke 19:2, 3)
“Who are you? What is your story?” These simple questions have facilitated some very rich conversations. Many long journeys have been turned from tedious hours of travel into fascinating encounters by people who make these kinds of inquiries. Finding out about the lives, thoughts, hopes, and dreams of the people around us is not only more interesting than casual conversation; it can spark deeper friendships with the ones we think we know.
A curious crowd had gathered around Jesus as he passed through Jericho that day. Maybe some onlookers were casual about Jesus, but not Zacchaeus. He genuinely wanted “to see who Jesus was” (Luke 19:3). He wanted to learn all about Jesus and what his story was. So he went and perched in a tree to get the best view possible. As a result, Zacchaeus was rewarded with an encounter that turned his life around and filled him with joy.
Zacchaeus might have wanted to know who Jesus was, but he learned even more about who he himself was. He discovered that he was still “a descendant of Abraham,” despite the many years he had spent exploiting and cheating his fellow Jews. He discovered that God still treasured him and that there was still hope for his future. He learned that he didn’t have to be defined by his past; Jesus looked beyond it, and so should he.
Every time you pray, read the Scriptures, or go to Mass, you too are in the crowd where Jesus is passing by. Will you be a spectator or a participant? It takes some humility, and some determination, to climb the tree with Zacchaeus, but think of the reward. While the beauty and familiarity of prayer or the liturgy can be a source of peace and comfort, God has much more in store for you. He wants to meet you. So go ahead and climb that tree! Actively seek out Jesus’ presence, and let him show himself to you. As you do, you’ll learn even more about who you are—a man or woman destined for greatness in his kingdom.
“Lord Jesus, I want to reach out to you today. I repent of any sin that blocks me from encountering you. Show me, Lord, the saint I can become!”
Revelation 3:1-6, 14-22; Psalm 15:2-5
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