What Jesus Did! 'Seeking the Lost' — Luke 19:1-5

Tuesday, November 3, 2015

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Jesus was going through the city of Jericho. In Jericho there was a man named Zacchaeus. He was a wealthy, very important tax collector. He wanted to see who Jesus was. There were many other people that wanted to see Jesus too. Zacchaeus was too short to see above the people. So he ran to a place where he knew Jesus would come. Then Zacchaeus climbed a sycamore tree so he could see Jesus. When Jesus came to that place, Jesus looked up and saw Zacchaeus in the tree. Jesus said to him, "Zacchaeus, hurry! Come down! I must stay at your house today."
— Luke 19:1-5 NLT
Illustration of Luke 19:1-5 NLT — "Zacchaeus, hurry! Come down! I must stay at your house today."

Key Thought

When Zacchaeus demonstrated his desire to see Jesus, Jesus looked up and saw him, then told Zacchaeus that he needed to stay with him. God wants us to know that when people are actively seeking the Lord, he seeks after them until he finds them! Not only does he willingly listen to those whose hearts are burdened (Luke 18:1-14), he also reaches out for those who are seeking him. This is true even if they are outcasts in their own world like Zacchaeus (Luke 5:27-31; 19:7).

Today's Prayer

Father, I know you longed for me to be your child even before I had begun to seek after you. Thank you for finding me and bringing me into your family through the gift of your Son. In Jesus' name I praise and thank you for your grace that has brought my salvation. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Acts 17:27-28
  • Luke 11:9-13
  • Hebrews 11:6

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did is a one-year devotional guide through the gospels, using one short passage each day and following the Gospel in consecutive order. Each devotional consists of a passage, reflection and a prayer which opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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