Reading the gospel story of Zacchaeus is always an experience in the unknown. What will this moment serve up to you and me, the readers or hearers of the story. This time what caught my attention is this: "Shortie," that surely could be his nickname, wanted to see the renowned young preacher. So he had to get up into a tree. A reminder of some parades in DC before security became the operative concern.
Yesterday there was a calling. But it was from the blind man who could not see but who believed Jesus could do something for him. Today there is a calling. This time it is from the lips of Jesus. "Heh, Z-man, I want to come to your house for dinner." Wow! Imagine the reaction from the Z-man! But, for me, it was a strange reaction. When some of the locals started to criticize Jesus for dining at the home of a known sinner, the Z-man becomes defensive. No thanks for coming to the dinner were offered to Jesus. Rather, Z-man displays some deep-seated guilt. "Jesus, I want to make up for what I may have done wrong. I want to be in your graces. I'll be making a substantial donation and help to the people in need."
There seems to be no doubt that Z-man was a troubled man. Interior discomfort seemed to rule his heart. The sense of guilt seemed to have a good grasp on his heart. It is this sense of discomfort the reveals a felt need to overcome what has been the cause of the guilt feelings.
So, the call of Jesus to Z-man is the call that is given to each sinner every day. Free yourself from whatever it is that holds you back from God. Let yourself be what God wanted you to be. Do what you can to overcome the various albatrosses that might be hanging around your neck.
Strange, isn't it, how a calling can also be a gift of freedom when it is answered in honesty.
