Encountering Jesus

When we read the story of Zacchaeus and Jesus, we spend too much time seeing the sycamore tree.  It may be an interesting sight to behold, but something which happens in the home of Zacchaeus is far more important to see.  Jesus went to the home of the tax collector that day.  Since the story begins with "He (Jesus) entered Jericho and was passing through it," (Luke 19:1), it would seem that Jesus had a change of plans.  He was so impressed by Zacchaeus that he invited Himself to his home.  Everyone was no doubt amazed.  

What must have really amazed them and what is more significant than a short man climbing a tree is how the tax collector's life was changed.  Exactly what happened in the house, we do not know, but we do know that Zacchaeus's life was radically changed by this unexpected encounter with Jesus.  Before the day was done, we hear the tax collector saying, "Look, Lord, half of my possessions I will give to then poor; and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I will pay back four times as much." (Luke 19:8).  

The story of this man's transformation tells us that an encounter with Jesus is not only something to be experienced personally, but that it changes the heart in such a way that no longer can the poor and broken be ignored.  When we encounter Jesus, we find ourselves encountering those around us in a different way.  We no longer want to relate to those around us from a position of power or privilege, but as one who wants to care for the needs of a brother and sister.  We become one of those who no longer is owned by what is held, but instead, becomes one whose hands are open to give generously and to serve with love.