Children often love to climb trees. When is the last time you climbed a tree? In the Gospel we hear about a grown man of notable reputation climbing a tree in order to see Jesus. I imagine you would try too if Jesus were coming along your way and you were in a big crowd! I know I would.
Jesus is impressed by the mustard seed of faith he sees in Zacchaeus. He looks up with joy in his heart, desirous of a one-on-one encounter with this childlike character. It's as if he calls out, "Come on down and let's hang out together!" Literally, he says, "I must stay at your house." That’s a pretty bold statement! Jesus literally wants to break bread with him, which in the Jewish context means to become one with him, foretelling the Eucharist. Zacchaeus cheerfully climbs down and welcomes Jesus into his home. Almighty God--the Trinity really--has chosen to pitch his tent with this man. And Zacchaeus has no greater desire than to respond lavishly to God's generosity, and tithe 50% of his income to the needy people around him.
This is our invite, too, to welcome Jesus into our homes, our living places, and then, out of gratitude, to invest a Godly portion of our disposable income for the benefit of the most needy, so that they not only survive but thrive. What better way to please Jesus' heart! And think about it, dear brothers in Christ, what else matters in this life than that?? To please the Heart of Jesus…it’s worth scaling trees for.
Fr. Anthony Wieck, SJ
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