Serving where you are.
Imagine Zaccheus the tax collector. He 'seemed' to have it all going well for him.
Money and fame wasn't his problem!
The Story
Tax collectors were Jews who collected taxes from fellow Jews for the Roman Empire. They made their living by charging an extra amount. Some of them made more than a living. They exacted any amount they could and thus became well to do. [Jirair S. Tashjian (in Tax collectors and Sinners)]
A few things can therefore be said about Zach using 21st century lingo!
1. Technically speaking, he had the best cars and a big house in an upbeat neighbourhood!
2. He was a man of power who probably rubbed shoulders with the 'stars'.
3. He was a very wealthy man. Now remember he was no ordinary tax collector. The bible calls him the 'chief tax collector'.
4. He was famous. Many modern day business men would want to be in possession of his complimentary card.
Although all seemed to be working out good for Zaccheus, he had one limitation, he was short in height. On hearing Jesus was in town, Zach didn't mind his status in society, what others may say or what the future may hold when he made a go at the sycamore tree all because he wanted to catch a glimsp of Him others called the King of Kings. That one decision, changed his life forever (for good).
He doesn’t hesitate to renounce his wealth, promising to repay anyone he has cheated. He even heeded the advice John the Baptist gave to tax collectors, promising not to overcharge people on their taxes in the future (Luke 3:12-13). This essentially cut his income back to nothing.
Zacchaeus doesn’t find a new profession, or leave everything to follow Jesus. He remains in the same community, working the same job, but doing it in a different way. [Brian Beckstrom (in Missio Dei)]
The love Jesus showed, started Zach on a new path of influence, success, peace and assurance.
Now
You may be;
- Wealthy and Intelligent
- Making it big in society
- Popular and (seem to) have a lot of friends
What have you done with Jesus' love? Are you numbered with the crowd that seems to be doing the right thing (going to the right church and trying to live good) or like Zaccheus who did the unthinkable (sort to see the King and received him in his home/heart)?
Imagine Zaccheus, he became a son of God.
