Today’s Community Scripture – 1/15/2025

Then Jesus entered and walked through Jericho. There was a man there, his name Zacchaeus, the head tax man and quite rich. He wanted desperately to see Jesus, but the crowd was in his way he was a short man and couldn’t see over the crowd. So he ran on ahead and climbed up in a sycamore tree so he could see Jesus when he came by. When Jesus got to the tree, he looked up and said, “Zacchaeus, hurry down. Today is my day to be a guest in your home.” Zacchaeus scrambled out of the tree, hardly believing his good luck, delighted to take Jesus home with him. Everyone who saw the incident was indignant and grumped, “What business does he have getting cozy with this crook?” Zacchaeus just stood there, a little stunned. He stammered apologetically, “Master, I give away half my income to the poor and if I’m caught cheating, I pay four times the damages.” Jesus said, “Today is salvation day in this home! Here he is: Zacchaeus, son of Abraham! For the Son of Man came to find and restore the lost.”

Luke 19:1–10 (MSG)

Main Verse: Jesus said, “Today is salvation day in this home! Here he is: Zacchaeus, son of Abraham! For the Son of Man came to find and restore the lost.”

– Reflection:

Zacchaeus

The paragraph in the Bible that speaks of Zacchaeus tells a tiny bit, but it tells a huge story. This guy was probably the most hated among all those who had a position. He was trying to see Jesus one day and was blessed when he came to his own home. Everyone around that day was shocked. Zacchaeus tried to explain his methods to Jesus, but it didn’t matter; God had seen his heart. Even though he held that position as a career, he was still able to be redeemed by Jesus. We can’t give up on those we may think are lost; we have to keep trying to find a way to help them see who they are. Children of GOD, too.

Where do we go from here?

The Zacchaeus story is a powerful one! Here are some next steps to help us understand that Christ can redeem even the most lost soul, inspired by the story of Zacchaeus:

1.) Share the Story: Start by sharing the story of Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10). Highlight how Jesus reached out to someone despised and considered a sinner, showing that no one is beyond redemption.

2.) Emphasize God’s Love: Reinforce the message that God’s love is unconditional and extends to everyone, regardless of their past or current situation. Use verses like Romans 5:8, which says, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

3.) Personal Testimonies: Share personal testimonies or stories of others who have experienced redemption and transformation through Christ. Real-life examples can be very powerful and relatable.

4.) Encourage Seeking Jesus: Encourage the person to seek Jesus, just as Zacchaeus did. This can be through prayer, reading the Bible, or attending church. Assure them that Jesus is always ready to welcome them with open arms.

5.) Offer Support: Be a supportive friend or mentor. Offer to pray with them, study the Bible together, or attend church services with them. Show them that they are not alone in their journey.

6.) Highlight God’s Forgiveness: Emphasize that God’s forgiveness is available to all who repent and turn to Him. Use verses like 1 John 1:9, which says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

7.) Be Patient and Persistent: Understand that transformation can take time. Be patient and persistent in your efforts to help them see their worth in God’s eyes.

By following these steps, we can help someone understand that no matter how lost they may feel, Christ’s love and redemption are always within reach. How do you feel about these steps?

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for seeing us for the children in your Kingdom. It is a blessing to be seen by you each and every morning. Help us continue to aid those who have not come to you, and give them the blessing and knowledge of you. Father, when we come across a lost soul, allow us to be as gentle with them as you were with us. In Jesus’ name. Amen

Coach Arthur Poston Jr.
Focused Development Organization
Middle School Coach