Gospel Reflection for Sunday, October 30th

The 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time – Little Zacchaeus and the Big Tree

In last Sunday’s gospel we read about the Pharisee and the tax collector who went to the Temple to pray. One of them thought he was better than everyone else, the other knew he was a loved sinner. This Sunday we have another tax collector; little Zacchaeus, who is a senior tax collector. Although his position would have made him powerful and wealthy, it would also have made him despised and hated for collecting money for the Romans from his family, friends and neighbours. We are told that Zacchaeus only wants to see Jesus; we are not told that he wants meet Jesus or speak to him. Being too small to see over the crowd, he climbs a tree to get a better view and from where he can keep Jesus at a safe distance.

As Jesus walks by the tree, Zacchaeus is happy just to see this wandering preacher. However, Jesus has other ideas. While Zacchaeus decides to climb the tree, Jesus decides to look up and call him personally by name. Jesus takes the initiate to begin the conversation. He doesn’t condemn, criticise or judge this little man. He does not even demand repentance or an act of contrition On the contrary; Jesus invites himself to the tax collectors house for a meal! While Zacchaeus hurries down the tree over joyed, the crowd complain that Jesus is going to share a table and food with a known sinner. While the crowds see a well-known outcast and traitor, Jesus see beyond this to the person Zacchaeus can be become.

It worth noting that Jesus does not demand an outpouring of sorrow before eating with this man. Jesus overlooks his wrongdoing in the hope that Zaacchaeus will repent because he is forgiven. Jesus makes real the description of God from the first reading this Sunday; You are merciful to all.. you overlook our sins, so that we can repent. This is how God treats each us. We too are called by our name. God doesn’t wait until we are perfect to call us. We are called just as we are. We are loved and forgiven, then we are called to repent and change our ways just as Zacchaeus did.

Zacchaeus went to great and lengths and made a huge effort just see to see Jesus. What can I do this week to get the attention of Jesus? What effort do I make daily to experience Jesus? When Jesus called Zacchaeus by his name, he made a quick and whole hearted response. How do I respond when Jesus look at me, calls me by name and forgives me?

•  Michael Moore OMI