Day 19/260: Read Luke 19

Who needs the gospel? Who needs to be saved? Everyone! There is not a single person who can be saved without the blood of Christ.

Tax collectors of the first century were often dishonest in their work; they would collect more than was required by the government, and line their pockets with the extra. The people had an especially low opinion of Jewish tax collectors as they were considered traitors, stealing from their own people. It is no surprise they were upset Jesus visited with Zacchaeus on this day.

Yet, Zacchaeus was willing to do something that the rich ruler of the previous chapter refused. “Look, Lord, I give half of my goods to the poor; and if I have taken anything from anyone by false accusation, I restore fourfold.” Not only did this man want to do good, he wanted to fix the bad things he committed.

What was Jesus’ response to Zacchaeus’ attitude? “Today salvation has come to this house.” The tax collector was a sinner, but he was penitent and desired righteousness. His change of heart would not be ignored by Jesus.

Zacchaeus was a prime example of the reason Jesus came. Sin needed to be dealt with in the tax collector’s life; sin also needs to be dealt with in our lives. Jesus wants to save you.

Memory (Fill in the blanks)

Luke 19:10, “For the Son of Man has come to ____________ and to _____________ that which was lost.”

Pray

Pray for forgiveness with a penitent, restorative attitude. Pray for opportunities to right your wrongs, giving glory to God.