Read Luke 19:1-10

Zacchaeus Was A Wee Little Man, But A Spiritual Giant

Zacchaeus was a “chief tax collector, and he was rich” (Luke 19:2); in the eyes of other Jews, he was a traitor to the nation. Tax collectors had a reputation for dishonesty, for collecting more than was due and pocketing the difference. As a chief tax collector, he supervised the work of several publicans under him.

When Jesus came to Jericho, Zacchaeus was adamant about seeing Him. Wherever Jesus went, though, He attracted a large crowd, and Zacchaeus couldn’t see because “he was of short stature” (Luke 19:3). Often in children’s Bible classes a song is sung about this man: “Zacchaeus was a wee little man.” Though he was short, he was determined. He decided to climb the sycamore tree just so he could catch a glimpse of Jesus.

The Lord looked up and saw Zacchaeus in the tree, and He told him that He would come to his house. So Zacchaeus came down and welcomed Jesus into his home, but this upset the crowds. They complained, “He has gone to be a guest with a man who is a sinner” (Luke 19:7).

The tax collector, though, was a committed man. “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” (Luke 19:8). He was rich, but he was generous, and he was willing to correct any errors that he had committed unknowingly.

Jesus reinforced Zacchaeus’ desire to do right, declaring, “Today salvation has come to this house, because he also is a son of Abraham; for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:9-10).

Zacchaeus was a wee little man, but he was a spiritual giant, willing to help those in need and do right by his fellowman. How can you be more like Zacchaeus in your life?