Tuesday of week 33 in Ordinary Time
Rev. 3:1-6,14-22
Psalm 14(15):2-5
Luke 19:1-10
Faith has the potential to inspire individuals to undertake extraordinary measures in their quest to encounter Jesus for specific blessings. In the passage from Luke 19:1-10, the character of Zacchaeus, a wealthy tax collector, exemplifies this idea as he goes to great lengths to catch a glimpse of Jesus, who was passing through that day.
Upon reaching the sycamore tree where Zacchaeus had positioned himself, Jesus invited him to come down, expressing His desire to visit Zacchaeus’ home.
Although Zacchaeus was identified as a sinner, his subsequent repentance delighted the Lord, leading to Jesus accompanying him to his residence. This narrative illustrates that when individuals possess faith, they invite Jesus into their hearts.
The act of repenting for one’s sins elicits divine approval, and according to scripture, there is great joy in heaven over the repentance of a lost soul. Salvation entered the household of Zacchaeus as a consequence of his repentance and faith in Jesus.
The citizens of Jericho realized that the one whom they believed they could live without was, in fact, the key to their salvation. It is essential to recognize that our salvation is intricately linked to our relationships with others, as our capacity to love those around us directly reflects our love for God.
Consequently, salvation is granted through baptism and the ongoing commitment to conversion towards God. One must not adopt a Christian identity solely at their convenience; rather, one should remain vigilant so that, upon the master’s return, they may be found prepared and pure. It is advised to eschew complacency and to emulate those who, through faith and perseverance, are inheriting the promised blessings, as expressed in Hebrews 6:12.
Fr Joseph Osho
