Reading
Luke 19:1-10
Zacchaeus
Bottom Line
“Seeing is Redeeming”
Zacchaeus sees Jesus from afar, has a personal encounter with him in his own home, and has his whole life turned upside down. He willingly gives up his wealth and orients his life after this encounter. The Pharisees, in usual fashion, grumbled about Jesus spending time with the deplorables.
This progression from seeing Jesus to redemption and repentance is a model for all of us! Seeing is redeeming.
What should the older brother hear?
The idea that Jesus is seeking “sinners” – with their hardships, financial problems, addictions, past wounds, rooted sins – is very unsettling for many faithful Catholics. They may also be dismissive or even hostile to the notion that Jesus is calling them – the faithful – to do as he did and – literally and figuratively – go into the homes of these whom Jesus came to save. The temptation to “write off” those outside the church is strong.
“Does Jesus’ desire to find those outside of the Church disturb you? It should – what Jesus is asking of you is difficult and uncomfortable. If he came to seek and save the lost, then this becomes the Church’s mission, and your mission as well. Recognizing your own need for redemption will help you understand the struggle of those in need of hope, love and mercy outside our walls.”
What should the younger brother hear?
Zacchaeus responded to an interest in Jesus and it turned his life upside down. This interest might show up in your life in various ways – but ultimately it is a longing that nothing on earth can fulfill.
“Jesus came seeking you. He has plans for you. Although he sees all of your sins, he sees good in you and wants to get to know you. Knowing Jesus will transform your life if you’re willing to let him enter.”
Action Item
Identify one handicap – one “shortness” – in your life that is preventing you from seeing Jesus. Make one concrete step to remove that obstacle.
Questions
Zachaeus’ short stature kept him from seeing Jesus, forcing him to climb a tree. What might prevent us from seeing Jesus in our everyday life?
Pope Francis once said that the Church is like a field hospital, a first-aid station near the front of battle where wounded soldiers are treated. How does this rich image relate to the story of Jesus and Zacchaeus? How does it relate to our Parish?
