Pursuing His Will

“So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a Sycamore tree in order to see Him, for He was about to pass through that way.” – Luke 19:4, NASB

When have you experienced a time in your life that you were so eager to be with Jesus, nothing could hinder you? I love this story of Jesus and Zaccheus for a few reasons, and one of them is Zaccheus’ intentionality to “see” and ultimately be with Jesus.

From the text we know that Zaccheus was a chief tax collector, and he was rich. In contrast when Jesus called Matthew the tax collector to follow Him, he was also rich, but from what we know, lived under different circumstances (see Matt. 9:9). During the times of Jesus (and other time periods) tax collectors were hated! At this moment in His ministry, Jesus was entering Jericho, which at the time was a prosperous trading center.

Zaccheus was so intentional to see Jesus that he climbed up into a Sycamore tree in order to see Him. Now of course he also did this because of his height, but what happens next is incredible. Not only was Zaccheus intentional to be with Jesus, but Jesus saw him in the Sycamore tree amidst the large gathering of the crowds along the road! Out of everyone there, Jesus calls Zaccheus.

Zaccheus then hurries down the tree to be with Jesus, and in this passage Jesus actually insists on spending time with him in his house. John MacArthur writes, “This is the only place in all the gospels where Jesus invited Himself to be someone’s guest.” (The MacArthur Study Bible, NASB).

Friends, this story is such a wonderful reminder that Jesus desires to spend time with you! One of our essentials of discipleship at Bay Area Community Church is being intentional. This story of Zaccheus’ conversion displays that intentionality, that desire to be with Jesus.

In what ways will you be intentional about spending time with Jesus?

As He is intentional about spending time with you, let’s return the sentiment-it brings a true joy that cannot compare to the riches of this world.

Blessings,

Wayde