EXTENDING GRACE
Luke 19:1–10
I was 21 years old when I was blessed to become the pastor of my first church. The parsonage was located approximately 2 miles from the church building on a street with about 15 other homes, most of which were homes of church members. My neighbors were predominantly older people, and they treated me like family.
It was common to share lunch with them at their homes, borrow something from one of them and see many of them daily. As I reminisce, I seriously doubt I imparted any biblical knowledge or wisdom to them that they did not already know. However, they were gracious enough to love me, accept me and allow a young minister the opportunity to grow and develop the skills and gifts God gave him.
While it is a blessing to be loved and accepted by others, the acceptance Jesus provides is incomparable. His acceptance is an extension and indication of a deep and personal grace. The old story of Zacchaeus reminds us that when we have Christ in our home, amazing things can happen.
We must be sensitive to the hearts of those seeking Jesus. (1–4)
There are many reminders of the world around us in the story of Zacchaeus. Those of us who are members and regular attenders of a healthy church often forget the darkness and cruelty of the world.
No doubt, there are countless people in our society who care nothing about Jesus or spiritual matters. Some curse His name and openly mock those who believe in Him. Let us not forget that our communities are also filled with people just like Zacchaeus. He was a man who wrestled with sin yet knew he needed to get to Jesus. He was small in stature but not in commitment.
There are lost people in your area who are desperate to find Christ. Is He easily visible in your church and home?
In His grace, God seeks fellowship with us. (5–6)
The persistence and eagerness of Zacchaeus were met with opportunity, and great things took place. Jesus asked him to come down from the tree and escort Him into his home. Zacchaeus was quick to obey Jesus’ words. This is a key point that should not be forgotten. There is no salvation without faith and belief in God’s words. When faith and obedience meet, great things can happen.
When we are transformed by God’s grace, we treat others with grace. (7–10)
You may have noticed an unwelcome but predictable pattern in your life as a Christian. When it is clear that God is at work, the detractors appear. Keep going with God and do not give up. People in the audience grumbled because of Zacchaeus’s reputation as a rich but unethical person.
He was a sinner of the worst kind in their eyes, and they judged him harshly. However, we are to remember that because Jesus loves sinners and came to save them, there is hope for us!
Zacchaeus needed Jesus that day, and only he was able to share the story of Jesus being company in his home. When Jesus transforms your neighbor, rejoice! The grace that saved them has also saved you. Our very lives should serve as an extension of grace for all we come in contact with.
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
