Dining With Sinners

“He has gone to be the guest of a sinner.” – Luke 19:7b

          This is the story of Zacchaeus, a Jewish tax collector for the Roman Government. He was not welcome in common social circles and despised by the general populous. He was short in physical stature, so when Jesus came to town and was walking by, he scrambled up a nearby tree to catch a glimpse of this supposed Messiah. When Jesus spied Zacchaeus up in the tree, He told him to come down for He would be coming to his house for a meal.

          Our chosen verse is interesting because it tells us Jesus decided to dine with an ungodly man and his family. This shines a light on Jesus’ saying that a doctor doesn’t come to heal those who are well, but rather those who are sick. (Luke 5:31) Jesus could have chosen anyone in the crowd, but he chose to call out a man that was despised and despicable. 

            Have you ever shunned someone because of externals, without knowing them? I sure have. Trust me, God knows everything about us … therefore He knows this too. Nothing we think, say or do shocks or surprises the Lord. We don’t need to be concerned with the external appearance of anyone. Our goal is to be Christ-like in this life. We will fail in this endeavor more times than not, but no one is perfect this side of heaven; however, that’s absolutely no reason not to try.  Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

Rich Keller

Bread of Life Ministries