The story of Zacchaeus, found in Luke 19:1-10, teaches us about the urgency of seeking Jesus and the transformative power of His grace. Zacchaeus, a despised tax collector, climbed a sycamore tree to see Jesus. Jesus noticed him and invited Himself to Zacchaeus' house, leading to Zacchaeus' immediate repentance and transformation. This story challenges us to seek Jesus urgently, extend grace to others, and show genuine repentance through our actions.
5 Day Devotional
Day 1: The Urgency of Seeking Jesus
Devotional
In the story of Zacchaeus, we see a man who felt an urgent need to see Jesus. Despite his wealth and status, Zacchaeus recognized a void in his life that only Jesus could fill. He didn't let his short stature or the crowd deter him; instead, he climbed a sycamore tree just to catch a glimpse of Jesus. This act of urgency and determination is a powerful reminder for us. How often do we run to see Jesus? How often do we prioritize being in His presence above all else? Jesus saw Zacchaeus' effort and responded immediately, inviting Himself to Zacchaeus' home. This shows us that when we seek Jesus with urgency, He meets us where we are.
Bible Verse: When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, 'Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.' - Luke 19:5
Reflection Question: What are some obstacles in your life that prevent you from urgently seeking Jesus, and how can you overcome them?
Quote: How often do we run to see Jesus? How often do we run to be where Jesus is in our life?
Prayer: Lord, help me to seek You with urgency and determination. Remove any obstacles that hinder me from coming into Your presence. May I always prioritize my relationship with You above all else. Amen.
Day 2: The Joy of Being Found
Devotional
Zacchaeus' story is a beautiful illustration of the joy that comes from being found by Jesus. Despite being a despised tax collector, Zacchaeus experienced immense joy when Jesus called him by name and invited Himself to his house. This moment was transformative for Zacchaeus, as it marked the beginning of his journey towards repentance and restoration. Jesus wasn't worried about the masses that knew Him; He was focused on that one lost soul. This teaches us that Jesus values each of us individually and rejoices when we come to Him. There is more joy in heaven when one person who doesn't know Christ comes to know the Lord than there is with a multitude of people who already have a relationship with Jesus.
Bible Verse: So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly. - Luke 19:6
Reflection Question: Reflect on a time when you felt the joy of being found by Jesus. How did that experience change your life?
Quote: There is more joy in heaven when one person who doesn't know Christ comes to know the Lord than there is with a multitude of people who already have a relationship with Jesus.
Prayer: Jesus, thank You for finding me and calling me by name. Help me to always remember the joy of being in Your presence and to share that joy with others. Amen.
Day 3: Extending Grace to the Unworthy
Devotional
Jesus' interaction with Zacchaeus teaches us a profound lesson about grace. Despite Zacchaeus' reputation as a sinner and a tax collector, Jesus extended grace to him by inviting Himself to Zacchaeus' home. This act of grace was not based on Zacchaeus' worthiness but on Jesus' love and compassion. We are all like Zacchaeus, sinful and undeserving of God's favor. Yet, Jesus comes looking for us, offering grace and salvation. How do we show God's grace to people around us? We've all been given God's grace. We've all been shown God's grace. How do we take that same grace and give to people?
Bible Verse: All the people saw this and began to mutter, 'He has gone to be the guest of a sinner.' - Luke 19:7
Reflection Question: Who in your life needs to experience the grace of Jesus, and how can you extend that grace to them today?
Quote: How do we show God's grace to people around us? We've all been given God's grace. We've all been shown God's grace. How do we take that same grace and give to people?
Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your grace that covers all my sins. Help me to extend that same grace to others, especially those who may seem undeserving. May my actions reflect Your love and compassion. Amen.
Day 4: The Power of Repentance
Devotional
Zacchaeus' encounter with Jesus led to a powerful moment of repentance. He stood before Jesus and acknowledged his wrongdoings, pledging to give half of his possessions to the poor and repay those he had wronged four times over. This act of repentance was not just about words but about tangible actions that demonstrated his commitment to change. Jesus declared that salvation had come to Zacchaeus' house, affirming his newfound faith. This story challenges us to examine our own lives and consider how we can demonstrate true repentance through our actions. Zacchaeus stood still, looks Jesus in the eyes, says, hey, look, I know I messed up. I know I've done wrong.
Bible Verse: But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, 'Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.' - Luke 19:8
Reflection Question: What areas of your life need repentance, and what tangible actions can you take to demonstrate your commitment to change?
Quote: Zacchaeus stood still, looks Jesus in the eyes, says, hey, look, I know I messed up. I know I've done wrong.
Prayer: Jesus, I acknowledge my sins and ask for Your forgiveness. Help me to demonstrate true repentance through my actions and to live a life that honors You. Amen.
Day 5: The Mission of Jesus
Devotional
The story of Zacchaeus concludes with a powerful declaration from Jesus: 'Today's salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.' Jesus' mission was clear—to seek and save those who are lost. This mission continues today, and we are called to be a part of it. We need to have a sense of urgency and a sense of necessity when it comes to the gospel message of Jesus Christ. Shouldn't we have that same sense of urgency? Because we're not promised tomorrow. We live on borrowed time. Let's commit to sharing the good news of Jesus with those around us, knowing that every moment counts.
Bible Verse: For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost. - Luke 19:10
Reflection Question: How can you actively participate in Jesus' mission to seek and save the lost in your daily life?
Quote: We need to have a sense of urgency and a sense of necessity when it comes to the gospel message of Jesus Christ.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your mission to seek and save the lost. Give me a sense of urgency and a heart for those who do not yet know You. Help me to share Your love and grace with others. Amen.
November 3rd Worship Service
November 3, 2024
Feeling stuck in fear and doubt? Discover how the story of the Danites can inspire you to step out in faith and trust God's promises. 'I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Questions
1. What does it mean to you to have a 'journey with God'?
2. How can fear and doubt prevent us from receiving God's promises?
3. In what ways can we 'assemble together' as a church to strengthen our faith?
4. How does the story of the Danites relate to our own struggles with faith?
5. What are some practical ways to trust God more in our daily lives?
6. How can we ensure that God is leading our journey and not just following our plans?
7. What does it mean to have God as both our leader and our rear guard?
8. How can we encourage others in our community to join us on this journey with God?
Life Application
This week, identify one area in your life where fear or doubt is holding you back. Pray and ask God for the courage to step out in faith and trust Him with that area.
Key Takeaways
1. Faith requires stepping out and trusting in God's promises.
2. Assembling together as a church is crucial for spiritual strength.
3. God leads us and protects us on our journey.
4. Fear and doubt can limit the blessings we receive from God.
5. Trusting God involves both recognizing His creation and having a personal relationship with Him.
# Ending Prayer
Lord, thank You for the journey You have set before us. Help us to trust You more each day, to step out in faith, and to embrace the blessings You have promised. May we support one another as a church community and be a light to those around us. Guide us, protect us, and lead us in Your ways. In Jesus' name, Amen.
