Have you ever wondered, like I have, why Zacchaeus climbed a tree in order to see Jesus as he passed through Jericho (Luke 19.1-10)? Sure, he was reported to be a person horizontally challenged; that is, he was short. Also, the crowds around Jesus had to be large since his reputation had grown throughout the region over the several years of his public ministry.

However, there may have been another reason that he climbed the tree. Zacchaeus was not well liked by his neighbors. He was, in fact, labeled as a “sinner” since he profited from the collection of taxes for the Romans. He could have tried to remain inconspicuous by climbing the tree in order to avoid the scrutiny and scorn of the crowd.

So often, that is how we approach Jesus. We are afraid of what others think of us or, even, that God has already judged us and found us wanting. Take a lesson from Zacchaeus. Jesus took the time to notice him and to spend time with him, and, in the end, to change his life forever.

We may try to hide from God out of shame and regret, but God will touch our hearts and transform our lives whenever we allow him into our day. Come this week and hear the story of Zacchaeus as we worship together.