Blog
Most of the posts you’ll find here first appeared as podcast episodes. You can listen to each episode on the page or read the slightly edited transcript. You’ll also find questions for personal reflection or discussion.
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In this parable, the servants of the nobleman are in a precarious situation. They’re supposed to keep serving the nobleman until he returns as a king, but they live among people who hate the king. But the king does return, leaving a hopeful lesson to Jesus’ followers as he approaches Jerusalem.
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Jesus is on the outskirts of Jerusalem and his followers are hoping that he will soon establish his kingdom. So Jesus tells them a parable about a nobleman who goes away for a while and returns a king. And while he’s gone, his servants have work to do.
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In the story of the Rich Ruler from Luke 18:18-30, the crowd asks, “who can be saved.” The story of Zacchaeus is an answer to that question. Zacchaeus shows us with his humility and turning away from sin that anyone who repents can be saved.
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A lot of Jesus’ teaching in the Book of Luke has to do with money–mainly the negative power it has over people. Then, in the story of Zacchaeus, we see a wealthy man who suddenly gives away most of his wealth. Because Jesus transformed his relationship with money.
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Zacchaeus is determined to see Jesus. But the crowd is intentionally blocking his access. So Zac goes out of his way to climb a tree and see him. And Jesus goes out of his way to connect with Zac: he knows his name, he changes his plans, and he invites himself over. Because Jesus came…
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The crowd listening to Jesus’ interaction with the rich ruler seem to believe a prosperity theology–that God’s blessing means wealth and comfort right now. But Jesus keeps pointing them toward rewards in heaven. The lesson is, don’t trade the eternal for the temporary.
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Amy C Walters 