When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly. Luke 19:5-6
The Word of God for today is a question. “How do you respond to the voice of Christ?
This story exemplifies the character of Jesus in dealing with sinners and the outcasts of society.
Zacchaeus was a rich man and an unethical tax collector.
He was very curious about Jesus and came to see Him.
Zacchaeus was short and could not see Jesus because of the crowd. So he climbed a tree to get a better view of Jesus.
Jesus saw Zacchaeus and told him to climb down the tree. He told Zacchaeus he wanted to spend the night in his house.
Zacchaeus came down from the tree quickly and welcomed him with a glad heart.
Here are some insights from the Holy Spirit about this encounter:
The moment of truth occurs when you hear the voice of Jesus. You have an option to respond with either a yes or a no.
For many the moment is just not convenient. There are too many worldly concerns and distractions.
Zacchaeus made the right decision. He repented of his sins and decided to live for Jesus. He also made a decision to share his wealth with others.
Jesus chose Zacchaeus out of all the people in the crowd because he was willing to change and responded with an open heart to Jesus.
The call of Jesus is without prejudice. It is very simply go and sin no more.
If you choose religion over Jesus you forfeit your rights and become enslaved to laws and works.
Come to Jesus by faith and you will become a son of Abraham and live in the freedom of the Cross.
Jesus came to seek out the lost with an invitation to receive the gift of salvation.
Jesus has no interest with those who are self righteous and live by a code of conduct. He identifies with people like Zacchaeus.
The decision for Christ comes by faith and is free of religion.
You agree to live for Christ and walk in oneness with Him through the Holy Spirit.
Hal Hollister Ministry 