Preaching: Rev. Stephen M. Fearing

Curiosity led a despised tax collector up a tree and into an unexpected encounter with grace. The story of Zacchaeus reveals the profound intersection between righteousness and mercy that defines Jesus's ministry and challenges our own understanding of reconciliation.

The biblical account introduces us to this "wee little man" who was actually a powerful figure – a chief tax collector who had grown wealthy by exploiting his neighbors. His very name, meaning "pure" or "innocent," created an ironic contrast with his reputation. Yet something sparked his curiosity about Jesus, leading him to the childlike act of climbing a sycamore tree for a better view. This simple act of curiosity positioned him for a transformative encounter.

What follows is a masterclass in the dance between righteousness and mercy. Jesus doesn't ignore Zacchaeus's harmful actions, but instead creates space for accountability alongside grace. Without being asked, Zacchaeus commits to giving half his possessions to the poor and repaying fourfold anyone he defrauded – embodying the Hebrew concept of teshuva (repentance) through confession, change, making amends, apologizing, and making different choices moving forward.

The crowd's grumbling at Jesus dining with "a sinner" reflects our human struggle to hold righteousness and mercy together. We're reminded that righteousness without mercy creates rigid self-righteousness, while mercy without accountability enables continued harm. Only together do they create the beautiful space where true reconciliation occurs. What tree might you need to climb today to catch a glimpse of this transformative grace?

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