SCRIPTURE: Luke 19 

KEY POINTS TO PONDER: Many of us, when we read verses 1-9 about Zacchaeus, can instantly recall the cute Sunday school song lyrics…”Zacchaeus was a wee little man, and a wee little man was he!” This song and this story has long taught us that Jesus desires us to search him out expectantly, whether that’s climbing a tree or simply sitting to pray. But what the song doesn’t teach us is Jesus’ radical love which would even cause us to grumble at times. You see, Zacchaeus, in the eyes of those who lived in his community, was not just a “wee little man,” he was a swindler and a cheat and had done great harm to his fellowmen. But Jesus doesn’t chide this man, as many probably hoped he would. Jesus’ focus is never on punishing a dark past, but on healing a changed heart. So as Christians, we can first rejoice that Jesus has forgiven us and rejoice in our freedom from past evil ways. And second, we can seek to have joy and forgiveness when we see those who wronged us come to God, instead of grumbling. 

CHALLENGING TERMS: The parable of the ten minas had a certain cultural significance at the time it was told. It was actually a direct reference to a historical event. Jesus was talking about when Herod’s son Archelaus, who was very disliked by the people, had to affirm his kingship under the Roman rule when fifty representatives went to Rome to oppose him. 

REFLECTION: How often do you find yourself grumbling when blessings or forgiveness come upon “unsavory characters?” What would it look like to rejoice instead? 

PRAYER: Father, help us to rejoice as we see lives being changed instead of grumbling when sinful people, just like us, experience blessing.