“All the people saw this and began to mutter, “He has gone to
be the guest of a sinner.” Luke 19:7 New International
Version
This verse is speaking of the time Jesus
was passing thru the town of Jericho. The sinner referred to here is the Roman
tax collector, Zacchaeus. The Romans levied heavy taxes on all the nations
under their rule to finance their empire. Zacchaeus was a Jew who worked for
the Roman Government. As a result he was wealthy. Because his wealth was gained from working
for the hated Roman government he was shunned and despised by his fellow Jews.
Now as you can imagine, anyone of the
people in attendance that day would have loved to entertain Jesus at their
home. They may not have been perfect but in their own minds they were a far
sight better than this traitor to his people. So you can understand why the
people would have been taken by surprise when Jesus picked the person they
considered the least likely to be chosen. Jesus, who was and is wholly God and
wholly man, saw the heart of Zacchaeus and not solely his external appearance
or reputation.
Are we not the same as the people of
Jericho? Do we not pass judgment on those who are outside the faith based on
pre-conceived ideas and prejudices that may have been passed down our family
tree for generations? It would be normal if we did. Not acceptable, but human
nature. If we are truly striving to imitate the Savior then we must begin to
see people the way the Lord does. We all need the help of the Spirit to achieve
this, for we cannot do it on our own. Until next time, walk with the King and
be a blessing!
Resource: The Life Application Study Bible.
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