When Jesus came by, he looked up at Zacchaeus and called him by name. “Zacchaeus!” he said. “Quick, come down! I must be a guest in your home today.”  Zacchaeus quickly climbed down and took Jesus to his house in great excitement and joy.  But the people were displeased. “He has gone to be the guest of a notorious sinner,” they grumbled.   Meanwhile, Zacchaeus stood before the Lord and said, “I will give half my wealth to the poor, Lord, and if I have cheated people on their taxes, I will give them back four times as much!”  Jesus responded, “Salvation has come to this home today, for this man has shown himself to be a true son of Abraham.

Luke 19:5-9

This story communicates many truths, but for today, we will look at the response of Zacchaeus, when he encountered Jesus.  Zacchaeus had a reputation, and it was not good.  He was the tax collector and it seems he collected not only what the government required, but extra for himself.  Zacchaeus was a Hebrew man and not a foreigner, but he obviously steered far from his religion in pursuit of something that he thought would satisfy. But, in all of his reputation and riches, Zacchaeus knew something was missing in his life.

Then one day, he heard that Jesus was coming to town.  He had heard of the impact of this man who spoke with sinners, and healed the sick.  He heard of the compassion of a man who touched the untouched and yet did not compromise His integrity with God.  Something in him knew there was more to life than what he was experiencing, but could it be for him?

Zacchaeus’ curiosity and hunger compelled him to get a glimpse of this man for himself.  And because of his stature, he could not see over the crowd, so Zacchaeus climbed up the tree, just so he could see Jesus.  And much to his surprise, Jesus took note of Zacchaeus!

Jesus sensing his inner hunger and thirst looked up and called out to him.  He urged him to quickly come down as He announced that He was going to Zacchaeus’ house that day!

The impact of this encounter upon Zacchaeus was great.  His momentary encounter with truth and love brought about a transforming change.  This change could be seen in his response to forsake his old ways to embrace the ways of Christ.  He was willing to make amends and restore to those he had cheated and submit his wealth to the Lord, by living generously and not selfishly.  In response to Zacchaeus decision, Jesus declared that salvation has truly come to his house!

Those who have forsaken all because they trust Him are a people who have had a true nature change as a result of their encounter with Jesus.  As followers of Jesus, live today in a visible way that others know that you have truly forsaken all, because you trust Him.