Jesus Is The Answer: Luke 19:1-10

 Have you ever stopped to think if this (your life's experiences) is it? Is there more to your life here on earth? Better put, is there more to your life as a believer in Jesus Christ? Have you ever wondered how people in the Bible from all walks of life experienced the miraculous power of God, but for some reason it seems like such power doesn’t manifest today, at least in your life? As I read Luke 19:1-10, my mind became bombarded with thoughts along the line of the questions presented above. I am one who has experienced affliction beyond measure and at times my mind wanders into places of doubt and frustration. So, as I read about Zacchaeus' interaction with Jesus, I honestly began to wonder: can I get an opportunity like Zacchaeus to see Jesus? And you too may have asked yourself questions along these lines: When will this aspect of my life change? When will I get some longer periods of joy and wellness?

 


Zacchaeus, a corrupt tax collector in first-century Jericho, heard about Jesus coming his way and wanted to see who Jesus was. So, he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree to see him. When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus come down immediately. I must stay at your house today." Zacchaeus came down at once and welcomed Jesus in his home. He did not know who Jesus was, but Jesus knew Zacchaeus by name. And Zacchaeus' interaction with Jesus led to his conversion, and compelled Zacchaeus to restore with interest the money he had taken from the poor illegally.

 Nonetheless, what stood out to me is Zacchaeus's choice to position himself to see Jesus. The Scripture does not make clear why he wanted to see who Jesus was. However, today, we may all have personal reasons why we want to see Jesus. As a believer, I know who Jesus is, but I still want to see His power manifest in my circumstances. I have health issues that rob me of joy. My life is like a roller-coaster of a little joy here, a lot of pain there, a little peace here, frustration there, and the cycle just continues. Do you suffer in silence with a smile on your face? Then you know what I am talking about.

 We may not start out on this journey as unbelievers like Zacchaeus; however, we could definitely agree that we need to see Jesus's resurrection power manifesting in our circumstances. If that's your desire, then let's mimic Zacchaeus. Let us position ourselves to see Jesus's power. If you have to climb up in prayer, or run along the highway of grace and mercy, crying out for a miracle, do it. 

 Zacchaeus used all his strength to climb up that sycamore tree, and it may require of you to do something you have never done before like praying a bit longer, fasting, or pouring out your heart with tears unto the Lord. Tell him you need a miracle, and that a mere blessing won't do. Tell him you are hurting. The Lord can do exceedingly abundantly more than we ask or think. And remember, Jesus knows our name.

 

R.G.  05/11/25

Image: freebibleimages.org

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