Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through.
Luke 19:1 NIV
At first glance, this verse in Luke’s Gospel may appear simple, even ordinary. Yet it carries profound weight. Jesus was merely passing through Jericho—a brief stop in the larger journey to Jerusalem. But even in transit, He was not too hurried to pause for a heart open to Him. That heart belonged to a man named Zacchaeus.
Zacchaeus was no ordinary man. He was a chief tax collector—wealthy, influential, and, in the eyes of many, morally compromised. But beyond the labels and the riches, Zacchaeus was searching. The Scripture tells us he wanted to see who Jesus was. His desire was not casual curiosity; it was a longing that pushed him past social decorum and personal pride.
Despite his position, Zacchaeus did what most wealthy men of his stature would not do: he ran ahead of the crowd and climbed a sycamore tree. He didn’t send a servant. He could not use his wealth to buy proximity. But he humbled himself—physically and socially—just to get a glimpse of Jesus.
This is the heart that moves God. A heart that longs for more than information—a heart that seeks transformation.
Jesus, who was simply passing through, stopped. He looked up and called Zacchaeus by name. “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” (Luke 19:5)
That moment changed everything. The man who climbed the tree to see Jesus became the man who would host Him. Zacchaeus transitioned from a distant observer to an intimate guest-bearer of Christ’s presence.
What’s remarkable is that Jesus didn’t demand a moral clean-up before entering his home. Zacchaeus’s heart posture—his sincere desire to encounter Jesus—was enough. And that posture led to deep repentance and tangible transformation, as we later read in the chapter.
This story reminds us that God is still searching for those who seek Him with sincerity. He honours humble pursuit. He’s not too far, too busy, or too preoccupied to pause when He sees faith in motion. If you desire Him, truly desire Him, He will meet you—often in unexpected ways, often in what feels like a passing moment.
Zacchaeus climbed a tree. You may only be lifting a prayer or reaching for your Bible in a quiet moment. But the same Jesus who called Zacchaeus down calls you by name, too. He is ready not only to be seen but to dwell with you.
Living It Out
Have you, like Zacchaeus, found yourself longing for more of Jesus? Maybe you feel as though you’re on the outskirts, just watching from a distance. Let this passage remind you: Jesus sees the sincere heart, and He responds to it.
You don’t need a platform, a title, or perfection—just a genuine desire to see Him. Be willing to let go of whatever pride, position, or comfort may be standing in the way. Seek Him wholeheartedly, and trust that He is more than willing to pause, call you by name, and come in.
Today, take a moment to pray. Invite Jesus for a real and genuine encounter.
He is not just passing by. He’s ready to abide.