Zacchaeus Story, Part III
In his excitement of having Jesus at his home Zacchaeus exclaimed: “Behold, half of my possessions, Lord, I shall give to the poor” (Lk. 19: 8). The people in the house were shocked to hear this announcement since they all knew of the rumors of how much wealth he has in the bank, stock market besides in the real estate. He has invested well the money he got from his work as a tax collector. The expression in Jesus’ face remained the same as Zacchaeus expected Jesus to extol him instantly for this courageous decision. Nobody could guess what was going on in Jesus’ mind except Zacchaeus. So he suddenly continued: “…and if I have extorted anything from anyone I shall repay it four times over.” (19: 8). He has exceeded what is required by the law and the presence of Jesus makes possible what is humanly impossible - a wealthy man getting through the needle’s eye! Zacchaeus saw Jesus’ face beaming with joy when he was willing to do reparations four times. Then Jesus exclaimed: “Today salvation has come to this house because this man too is a descendant of Abraham” (19: 9).
Jesus was actually challenging everyone around him who believed that their genealogical connection with Abraham guaranteed them a place in heaven. It is not your birth which decides your salvation but your actions should also be compatible with your vocation. Here Zacchaeus comes into terms with the futility of having so much wealth (most of which from exploiting the people) and the lack of peace he really desired to have. Once he found the greatest of all the wealth i.e., having a personal relationship with Jesus, he is assured of everything else really needed in life.
Zacchaeus challenges us greatly to look into our life to transform ourselves, to have a reencounter with Jesus. The noise, the crowd, the attractions and too much attachment to the world is preventing us from seeing Jesus. We may have to run like Zacchaeus. When we take the initiative Jesus will come on our way.
We are mistaken to think that we are tall enough for everything we do for our spiritual life. But we are too short - with our prayer life, faith life and in many other spiritual matters. Then we have to climb the tree for the rest of our life – to the tree of faith and the tree of prayer.
When we encounter the forgiveness of our loving God, we need to go for a confession. Jesus is waiting here for us to pour out everything in our mind before him. It is necessary for our spiritual cleansing. In our examination of conscience we have to realize the hurt we have caused to many people.
Now, in order to be with Jesus, we not only be giving up whatever is not helping us for our salvation, but also four times paying it back. Now on what is important for us is our relationship with Jesus. We have decided to walk with Jesus and nothing can prevent us from this exciting and joyful experience. Jesus, please stay in my house for the rest of my life here on earth.
