Devotion
Up a Tree
“So running ahead, he climbed up a sycamore tree to see Jesus, since he was about to pass that way.”
Luke 19:4
A rich, powerful, grown man does two things no dignified man in that culture would ever do: he runs, and he climbs a tree.
Back then, grown men didn't run — running announced that something mattered more than your dignity. And only children climbed trees; no self-respecting man would look like a child in public. Zacchaeus threw away his pride and his reputation, in his fine clothes, just to catch a glimpse of Jesus. The crowd looked up and saw a fool. Jesus looked up and saw a man who was seeking.
Practice
What pride or image are you protecting that's keeping you at a safe distance from Jesus? Or what reputation are you guarding that keeps you from moving toward someone who needs Him — the fear of looking overly religious, of being rejected, of the awkward conversation? Sometimes seeking Jesus, and helping others see Him, costs us our dignity. Are you willing to climb the tree?
Prayer
Jesus, I want to see you more than I want to protect my image. Help me lay down my pride — both to draw near to you and to reach toward the people you love. I'd rather look foolish and find you than stay dignified and miss you. Amen.
This Week’s Message
This devotion follows along with this week’s message.