The greatest gift in life is knowing Jesus. Yet many believers still feel lost in life.
The story of Zaccheus reminds us that true peace and transformation begins when we earnestly seek Christ.
Seeking Jesus above all else
“Now behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus who was a chief tax collector, and he was rich. And he sought to see who Jesus was...” (Lk 19:2-3a)
Most of us remember Zaccheus as the short man who climbed a sycamore tree. Yet Luke describes him as something else: A chief tax collector. Zacchaeus was rich and powerful.
Yet despite having everything that the world could offer, Zaccheus still wanted to see Jesus.
Why?
Beneath his wealth and reputation was a man who still felt lost in this world. He understood that riches could not give him peace, forgiveness, or salvation. Deep down, he knew that he needed something only Jesus could provide.
Many of us may relate to Zaccheus. We may seek satisfaction through work, studies, possessions, achievements, or personal ambitions. Yet despite attaining these things, we may still feel a sense of emptiness.
For those who are feeling lost in life, here is a question to ask ourselves: Have I truly sought God with all my heart?
Changed by the kindness of Jesus
“Today salvation has come to this house...” (Lk 19:9a)
When Jesus saw Zaccheus, He did not treat him as society did. While others viewed him as a sinner and traitor, Jesus saw a lost soul in need of salvation.
This act of kindness transformed Zaccheus.
Jesus’ love and kindness has the power to change people.
If we do not feel like our lives have been touched by Jesus' love, why is that so?
Sometimes, our spiritual growth is hindered not because we lack knowledge, but because we resist change. We know what is right, yet we struggle to let go of old habits, worldly desires, and sinful attitudes. Jesus extends His kindness to us, but we do not want to be changed by it.
Sometimes unlike Zaccheus, we do not realise the severity of our sins. Neither do we see the greatness of Jesus' love.
Choosing Jesus over the world
“For it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” (Lk 18:25)
At first glance, Zaccheus appears to contradict this teaching. He was wealthy, yet Jesus declared that salvation had come to his house.
Why was he different than the rich young ruler Jesus referenced in Luke 18, whom Jesus said would find it difficult to enter heaven?
The difference was that Zacchaeus was willing to let go of his possessions, status, and worldly pursuits in order to follow Christ. He couldn’t care less for the world. He climbed the sycamore tree: because he only wanted Jesus.
The emptiness you can't explain has an answer — and it starts with seeking Jesus.
Reflection Questions
What is my “sycamore tree”: the thing I need to climb, or the effort I need to make, to genuinely see Jesus again?
Growth is often hindered not by a lack of knowledge, but by resistance to change. What old habit, worldly desire, or attitude am I unwilling to let go of?
What is one concrete step I can take this week to draw near to God — putting away a bad habit, spending more time in the Word, or fasting and prayer — trusting that as I draw near to Him, He will draw near to me?
