Luke 19:4

New International Version

So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way.

For Encouragement

What stands between need and its source? Pride!

If an unbeliever puts aside pride and comes to Jesus, they receive eternal life (Jn. 3:16). Pride alone blocks access to Christ, the source of life. Only the humble receive His salvation.  

Why did a wealthy man scramble through a vast crowd like a horse to get ahead, only to end up climbing a tree (Lk. 19:1-4)? What was Zacchaeus looking for? Despite his infamous reputation as Rome’s top tax collector, he possessed wealth, status, power, and influence. Feeling unfulfilled, Zacchaeus pushed past his disadvantages—his reputation, the throng of people, and his short height—to glimpse Jesus as He entered Jericho. Intrigued by Jesus’ fame, Zacchaeus did what was necessary and climbed a sycamore tree along Jesus’ path.

More than curious, Zacchaeus felt an emptiness no status, influence, or wealth could fill. He had everything, but nothing satisfied him. Knowing his true need, Jesus called him down and offered the salvation Zacchaeus longed for (Luke 19:10).

The story of Zacchaeus is the story of every soul seeking to fill the emptiness only Jesus can satisfy. We try many things—sex, money, power, fame, wealth, alcohol, drugs, even education—but nothing fills the void. Only Jesus can meet this need for salvation (Acts 4:12).

Pride is a horrible sin and a serious hindrance to salvation. It affects both the rich and the poor, distorting their hearts and minds. Like leprosy, sin cripples everyone and presents a need for healing (Rom. 3:23; 6:23). Only Jesus’ blood restores us to God. Naaman almost walked away from his healing until he humbly obeyed Elisha’s instructions (2 Kings 5:9-14).

So, what stands between the soul’s need and its satisfaction in Christ Jesus? Pride!

Well then, humble yourself and urgently run to Jesus, just as Zacchaeus did, for healing. Receive His gift of life—salvation by grace through faith (Rom. 10:9-10, 13; Jn. 1:12-13) that excludes works and boasting (Eph. 2:8-9).

Pray with Me

Dear God. Thank you for working salvation for me through Jesus. I rejoice that through Him, I am reconciled to you and have the hope of glory. Amen.

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