Tax collectors were not beloved individuals in the Roman empire; if fact, they were despised. On behalf of the Roman emperor they would visit the homes of citizens to collect all the taxes that were due. People hated tax collectors; it was also a very dangerous job.

Jesus has an incredible conversation with a tax collector named Zacchaeus who lived in Jericho. His name meant “pure,” but coupled with how onlookers labeled him as “sinner” it produced a less than desirable image: “pure sinner.”

Something changed, however, when Jesus saw Zacchaeus. The man of small stature had climbed into a large tree, perhaps a sycamore, to get a better view of Jesus. Jesus invited Zack to come down from the tree. Zack took the initiative, made the choice to be “unstuck,” and let go of the branches he clutched so tightly, and gladly came down!

The surprises kept coming….. Jesus goes home with Zack and announces to everyone that “salvation has come to this house,” and claimed Zacchaeus as a son of Abraham.

This Sunday we begin a new sermon series called Unstuck. Many of us hold onto things that we have learned or believed in the past, sometimes even about how we view ourselves (good, bad, successful, disappointing). We find comfort in what is familiar, even if it false. Each week we will explore a way that God wants to free us, helping us to become “unstuck” from things that weigh us down.

You are invited to join us this Sunday for the sermon: “Unstuck: Take the Initiative,” based on Luke 19:1-10.

I am thankful that Jesus had Zack’s back. He has mine and yours too.

Peace,

Pastor Cathy Johns