Knowing The Word in Luke 19:1-10, Jesus and Zacchaeus

Jesus is not planning on staying in Jericho but is only passing through when he meets a man named Zacchaeus, which means “pure” or “righteous.” As the local head tax collector, he would employ others to collect the taxes and pass on the taxes to the Roman authorities. Jericho was a good location for trade going into and out of Jerusalem, allowing him to become rich but not popular with the townspeople. As he attempted to get a glimpse of Jesus, no one wanted to let this unpopular little man through to get a better viewing location. Jesus does not pass by him but stops and then does not ask to stay with Zacchaeus but demands to. Reacting to Jesus, the crowd criticizes and condemns both men. The law required full restitution plus one fifth. Zacchaeus is offering over the top restitution, which is amazing generosity in contrast to the grumblers in the crowd. A son of Abraham is one who follows the true faith and understands the grace of God. The story shows that Jesus did seek out Zacchaeus, who was lost, and when he found him he did not leave him as he was but saved him. This story along with verse 10 could be called the primary message of Luke’s Gospel.

1 He entered Jericho and was passing through. 2 And behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus. He was a chief tax collector and was rich. 3 And he was seeking to see who Jesus was, but on account of the crowd he could not, because he was small in stature. 4 So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him, for he was about to pass that way. 5 And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today.” 6 So he hurried and came down and received him joyfully. 7 And when they saw it, they all grumbled, “He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner.” 8 And Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor. And if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore it fourfold.” 9 And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

Prayer: Make us worthy, Lord, to serve our fellowmen throughout the world who live and die in poverty and hunger. Give them, through our hands, this day their daily bread, and by our understanding love, give peace and joy.

Mother Teresa of Calcutta