My three-year-old grandson entertained us at the dinner table, singing a song about Zaccheus. My eyes filled with tears at the sweet sound and over his delight in singing about Jesus going to a “wee little man’s” house.
Sometimes we don’t see Jesus, but it’s not because we are vertically challenged like Zacchaeus. It’s because of the crowd. There’s too much in our way—a to-do list or people making demands on our time. The urgent, the necessary, and the important block our view. Or preoccupation with self or disappointment that things aren’t turning out as we wanted. My focus is on what I wish I had.
Things, attitudes, events, and people crowd Jesus out, no matter how tall we are. We give everything priority except seeing and listening to Him.
Zacchaeus did everything he could just to see Jesus. Jesus responded by changing Zacchaeus’ life.
We don’t have to climb a tree, but we may have to prioritize our day and change our calendars. We may have to purpose in our heart to pray and read God’s Word to renew our focus. We can share what we have learned and receive encouragement from people who do the same.
When we do, like Zacchaeus, we’ll find the view is awesome. When we see Jesus, change happens.
Ask God for the persistence and passion Zacchaeus had.
(Photo courtesy of pixabay.)
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Marilyn Nutter, of Greer, SC, is a contributor to magazines, on-line sites, and compilations. She is a Bible teacher and speaker for women’s groups, a grief support facilitator, and women’s ministry team member at her church. In her life’s seasons, she has met God’s faithfulness and clings to Lamentations 3:22-23. Look for her blog at www.marilynnutter.com to find extraordinary treasures in ordinary and challenging days. You can contact her at marilynnutter@gmail.com.