Zacchaeus: A Symbol of Repentance and Hospitality

 Zacchaeus: A Symbol of Repentance and Hospitality

Zacchaeus(Pure, Innocent in Hebrew) stands as a lasting beacon of hope, symbolizing repentance and hospitality. His name is often invoked in our prayers for home blessings, as Jesus chose to stay with him, transforming his house into a place of grace. Jesus recognized Zacchaeus’s genuine desire to encounter Him—manifested by his climb up a sycamore tree despite his small stature. Through this act, Zacchaeus displayed his repentance, humility, and willingness to serve Jesus's mission. He wasn’t content with merely a partial glimpse of Jesus but sought a full, direct encounter. Jesus’s response was immediate: He called Zacchaeus down from the tree and announced His intention to stay at his home. Overjoyed, Zacchaeus offered to repay everything he had taken and to give fourfold of what he had extorted. This transformation occurred simply because of Jesus's presence, free of criticism or condemnation. Jesus accepted Zacchaeus as he was, with all his faults and burdens.

Zacchaeus reminds us of the transformation that must take place when we welcome Jesus into our lives. We cannot remain trapped in pride and arrogance but must step down from our pedestals, making ourselves available to others. This transformation involves reparation, humility, and the removal of grudges and resentment from our hearts.

Reflecting on this transformation, Cardinal Dolan, in his book Priests of the Third Millennium, offers guidance to priests. Drawing from his experiences as the Rector of the North American College in Rome, he writes, “Grace builds on nature. We supply raw materials for God’s amazing grace. Priests are to be bridge-builders. Our manner, our style, and our personality are to attract people—not to shock, scare, hurt, or alienate them. What good will the prayer and learning be for the priest whose personality repels people?”

What is often missing in our actions is simple courtesy and humility. Our spiritual calling should not elevate us to arrogance or a sense of superiority. Jesus’s example at the Last Supper reminds us that our ministry is rooted in service, in washing the feet of our neighbors. Like Zacchaeus, we can only achieve generosity and a broad-minded spirit through true repentance and humility.