Luke 19:5-10
“5 And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchæus, make haste, and come down; for to day I must abide at thy house.
6 And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully.
7 And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying, That he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner.
8 And Zacchæus stood, and said unto the Lord; Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold.
9 And Jesus said unto him, This day is salvation come to this house…For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.”
Repeatedly, I see how the Savior judged people righteously, not as society did, and developing their potential. Zacchaeus was the Chief Publican, the tax commissioner as it were. And if I remember correctly, the Romans had set up the tax system so that the publicans would collect taxes and make their wages off what they collected, allowing a system of corruption and graft. But the Savior knew this man’s heart, how he joyed to have the Savior dine with him. The encounter is so life-changing for Zacchaeus that he gives half his goods, and is ready to make restitution for his wrongs.
When the centurion comes to Jesus requesting healing for his servant, the Savior basically says, Take me to him. But the centurion, knowing the local feeling about Romans and belief that it made one unclean to be in the home of a Gentile, quickly says, No, but give the word and I have faith that it will work, being an officer accustomed to taking orders. Jesus knew this centurion’s heart, and faith, and rewarded both despite the crowd’s reaction.
The Savior sets an incredible and wonderful example for all of us. How often have we seen a woman at church, PTA, or the office that seemed put together, with children who were beautiful and accomplished? And at that moment, have we been happy for her, or instead felt resentful or found fault? How often do we judge our neighbor from a rumor, or a co-worker with annoying habits? Beneath the exterior, we all have hearts and dreams and abilities. When we look a little deeper, we’re rewarded with a softness, appreciation, and connection we may not have seen.
How can you judge less and love more today?
Merry Christmas,
Connie
