“When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, ‘Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.’ So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly.” Luke 19:5-6
Christmas can be a time of fellowship and gatherings with people that are closest to us. It can also be a time of profound loneliness for people.
Jesus happened to be passing through Jericho and His presence peeked a man's curiosity — a man by the name of Zacchaeus. Zacchaeus was physically short in stature and was not able to satisfy his curiosity because of the crowd that stood before him. He took matters into his own hands and climbed a tree in order to see Jesus. Jesus took notice and invited Himself over to Zacchaeus' home.
We may feel unnoticed, but God notices us.
Zacchaeus was a tax collector and tax collectors were highly unpopular. In fact, you could perhaps compare them to the mob of that day. Zacchaeus’ status did not prevent Jesus from spending time with him. I do not believe that Jesus condemned him either, but something about the presence of Jesus must have compelled Zacchaeus to turn from his wrongdoings. Zacchaeus decided to make things right by returning four times the amount of money he cheated people out of.
Instantaneous salvation! The presence of Jesus transforms the lonely and isolated. Will you invite him to eat again and again with you this Christmas season?
Dear Jesus, as we celebrate Your birth this holiday season, help us notice the people that need You the most and help us make time for the one who is at this present time seeking You and needing you. So use us, dear Lord, to reach that one. Amen.
TAKE ACTION
The holiday season is fast approaching. Spend time with someone who needs your time and your genuine friendship. Make time for what matters. That may mean spending time with a person who may be difficult. Do not let that discourage you. This person may need your presence more than your words.
Check out these 8 out-of-the-box ways to gift love this Christmas season.