Today's Scripture:

Luke 19:1-10 Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. He wanted to see who Jesus was, but because he was short he could not see over the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way. When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly. All the people saw this and began to mutter, “He has gone to be the guest of a sinner.” But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.” Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

Read: Reflect on a story in your life that pertains to this scripture.
Jesus’ lessons, regardless of topic, constantly weave love, acceptance, and forgiveness into them. This pattern is evident in the passage's last sentence in which Jesus forgives Zacchaeus despite his admitted wrongdoings. As difficult as it may be, we need to personify the same level of acceptance and forgiveness in our lives.

Reflect: What is this scripture telling you during this season?
I recall an incident years ago when an employee wronged me. Without going into detail, the betrayal caused me quite a bit of emotional distress and anger. “How could a person I cared for do this to me?” I often thought. As difficult as it was, the deed forced me to end our business and personal relationships. A year later, I received a call from a mutual friend informing me that my former employee’s cancer returned and that he was now in hospice. The hurt caused by the incident was still in my heart, so I considered dismissing the conversation. However, something inside me told me otherwise. When I mentioned my thoughts on the matter to others, I was advised to let it be, as reliving the experience would only serve to open old wounds. Still, the contemplation of visiting never left me. In the end, I followed my heart and drove to the hospice facility unannounced. My heart pounded as I paced the hallways! Finally, I mustered the courage to enter the room. When we made eye contact, something unique happened; any animosity left in me quickly dissipated. A great conversation ensued, culminating with apologies on both parts. Before I left, I asked if there was anything I could do. Displeased with the food at the facility, my friend asked for a hamburger, fries, and a Coke! I happily obliged him with the contraband the following week. Too weak to lift his arms, my pal asked me to feed him. Again, I obliged. As I did, a tear rolled down his cheek. I’d like to think that the delicious hamburger he had longed for so long stirred his deepest emotions. However, I knew better. My buddy passed a few days later. Looking back, I’m glad I listened to my heart and summoned the courage to do what I felt was right. The moment we shared left quite an impression and is one I will never forget.

Respond: How is this scripture calling you to respond?
Jesus was not worried or affected by the “mutters” of others. In the end, He always did what was right, despite any objections or judgments. We must do the same, lead by example, and resist being swayed by opinions or popular beliefs. Only then can we call ourselves true disciples.

About Fernando Mendiola:
My name is Fernando Mendiola, and I have been a member of the Grace family for over 20 years. I recently retired from the insurance industry after a 22-year run and currently work for two non-profit organizations dear to my heart: All Pro Dad (as a Chapter Support Specialist) and Grace Presbyterian Church (as the Recreational Sports Commissioner). I have been married to my beautiful wife, Mayda, for over 27 years, and together, we have raised two wonderful sons. Aaron is currently a junior at West Point, while Lucas is a high school senior/soon-to-be college freshman at a university TBD soon.
Already integrated for you in my response about me. (For over 20 years!)