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When Jesus Barges in
How unplanned interruptions can change our lives
God’s kingdom advance sometimes requires intruding on other people’s plans. Jesus didn’t mind in the least barging in when it suited his purposes.
Take for example Zacchaeus, tax collector of the rich and famous in Jericho.
First-century tax contractors made a handsome commission as they collected revenue for the Roman government. And if they could get away with charging more by making false accusations (extortion) the bottom line was even better.
Zacchaeus took full advantage of the opportunity in the affluent “city of palms.” Herod built first-century Jericho for his winter home. Many of the who’s who of Jerusalem also had winter homes there.
Because he was good at is business Zaccheus was hated and reviled as “that sinner.” His Hebrew name meant “righteous one” but he was anything but. Everyone thought of him as a greedy, powerful, ruthless traitor, a sort-of mafia don. He didn’t really care what people thought of him.
Jesus barged in
Jesus passed through Jericho one day on the way to Jerusalem from Caesarea-Philippi, and barged into Zacchaeus’ life.
Jericho was the last of a long list of whistle-stops before reaching Jerusalem. The road…
