The story of Zacchaeus in Luke’s Gospel teaches us that mercy and repentance go hand in hand. There are many forms of mercy: for example, the parable of the prodigal son shows us the father’s mercy by rejoicing in his prodigal son’s return with open arms; on the other hand, the parable of the Good Samaritan shows us the Samaritan’s mercy through his care and compassion for the robber’s victim. In the story of Zacchaeus, Jesus teaches us another kind of mercy; He shows us how to be merciful to sinners.
Zacchaeus was despised by the people because he was a tax collector; not only did he enforce the collection of taxes for the Roman emperor, he also collected over and above what was required and pocketed it. Thus, he became a rich man through unjust means. Zacchaeus was a sinner.
As Jesus was passing through the big crowd, He called out: “Zacchaeus, today I must stay in your house!” Jesus knew that Zacchaeus was a sinner, but He did not berate Zacchaeus in front of everyone. Rather, in front of everyone, Jesus invited Himself to the house of a sinner. Now, this was a great act of kindness and mercy. Zacchaeus was overjoyed, but some people began to grumble – why would Jesus want to go to the house of a sinner?
The act of kindness and mercy which Jesus showed to Zacchaeus bore great fruit. Zacchaeus said to the Lord: “Half my possessions I give to the poor, and I shall repay four times whatever I have extorted from anyone.” Zacchaeus did not seek to be justified by his good works; but through these works, he showed sincere faith and repentance. Jesus answered, “Today salvation has come to this house.” In saying this, Jesus confirmed that Zacchaeus was delivered not only from the penalty of his sins, but also from the habit and power of sin.
Do you know someone who is living in grave sin? There is no question that the story of Zacchaeus teaches us to be kind and merciful to them. But does this mean that we should also approve of their sinful way of life? Jesus ate with the tax collectors and prostitutes, not because he approved of their sinful way of life, but in order to call them to repentance. (Luke 5:32)
Here are some ways in which a person of faith can admonish the sinner with mercy:
- Give witness on the wonderful things that God has done and is doing to increase your faith.
- Admit your own need for salvation and desire the salvation of others.
- Pray for the one you are seeking to help.
- Remain in a state of grace so that your actions are guided by God’s power and love.
- Be genuine in your words and actions.
MERCY BUILDS A BRIDGE OVER WHICH TRUTH CAN PASS. We can speak the truth, but without mercy, it can only go so far.