Read: Luke 19:1-10

For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost. (v. 10)

The crowd in Jericho was not pleased about Jesus hanging out with the rich oppressor Zacchaeus. Jesus’ conversation with the little guy in the sycamore tree seemed off script from his usual talk of caring for the poor and needy. So here we must re-consider Jesus, who loved the oppressed and the oppressor in equal measure. He wasn’t content to leave anyone in their alienation or sin.

The grace of God entered Zacchaeus’ life with such powerful effect that no one needed to preach at him, saying, “Jesus did you a big favor, buddy. Now, here’s the Ten Commandments and the way we do things around here. Get busy living up to it.” Rather, the grace of God goes to work, and a sinner makes a new start. Zacchaeus pledged to go the distance and immediately did what it took, making past wrongs right (v. 8). A rich man thus entered the kingdom of heaven by the grace of God, which is the only way for any of us.

“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost” summarizes Zacchaeus’ testimony. It also summarizes Jesus’ whole purpose. The Savior’s life, ministry, death, resurrection, and ascension all come down to this—the grace of God gives sinners a new start. Do you need that start?

Prayer:

Gracious God, for Jesus’ sake, do not hold our sin against us. Empower us by your Spirit to start fresh today. Amen.

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