The Road Devotional | Lent 2024

Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. He wanted to see who Jesus was, but because he was short he could not see over the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way.  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. 

A tax collector in Jesus’ day was seen as the worst of all traitors to the Jewish people. Not only did they work for the occupying Romans, but they often swindled their fellow Jews out of their hard-earned money in order to make themselves rich. Jesus talks with the most infamous tax collector in all of Jericho. Everyone would have known him and his misdeeds. On top of this we know that Zacchaeus had physical limitations that could have hindered him. Instead, he took proactive steps to overcome them, running ahead and climbing a tree, just so he could have a look at Jesus.

Q. What obstacles or challenges do you face in your journey of faith? How can you emulate Zacchaeus’ determination in over coming them?

The least likely person to be singled out by Jesus, Zacchaeus receives even more from Jesus: Jesus has invited himself into his home! This type of hospitality is radical, and it ends with transformation within Zacchaeus’ life. Like with many others, those who encounter the presence of Jesus leave changed.

Q. When have you experienced radical hospitality? When have you shown it?

God, like Zacchaeus, we come before You with a longing to see and experience Your presence. Help us overcome any obstacles that hinder our pursuit of You, whether they be physical, emotional, or spiritual. Thank you for the unexpected invitations You extend into our lives. May we respond with joy and eagerness, welcoming You into every corner of our hearts. We acknowledge the transformative power of Your presence and pray for a continual renewal that leads to a life of repentance and love.

Amen.