1. 'Zacchaeus, come down immediately' (1-6).

As Jesus passed through Jericho, Luke draws our attention to Zacchaeus. Although short, he had power, abusing his oppressed people to become a rich, chief tax collector. Wanting to see Jesus, he estimated Jesus' course, ran ahead, and climbed a sycamore-fig tree, scuffing up his nice clothes. This was more than casual interest; his soul longed for something only Jesus had. Jesus stopped and called to him: 'Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.' Jesus' words knocked on the door of Zacchaeus' heart (Rev 3:20). Zacchaeus gladly welcomed him.

2. 'Salvation has come to this house' (7-10).

The crowds were offended by Jesus' choice of friends. Zacchaeus voluntarily decided to give away half his possessions and pay restitution to those he had taken advantage of. This was his repentance, moved by Jesus' love and acceptance. Jesus declared: 'Salvation has come to this house.' Was it because of Zacchaeus' charity? No. He shared the faith of his father Abraham: faith to obey God. Jesus came to seek and to save the lost.


Application: Father, thank you for Jesus who seeks and saves me. Help me share his heart for the lost.
One Word: Jesus is knocking at your heart's door