What financial lessons can we learn from a tax collector who climbed a tree? Stay tuned and find out.
Of course, you know I’m talking about Zacchaeus in Luke 19. That story is filled with important teachings about money, stewardship, and generosity. Dr. Kelly Rush joins us today with some interesting observations about the life of Zacchaeus.
Dr. Kelly Rush is a Professor of Finance, Department Chair, and Financial Planning Program Coordinator at Mount Vernon Nazarene University in Ohio.In first-century Israel, political, social, and religious divides were as prevalent as they are today. Labels like Pharisee, Sadducee, and zealot carried heavy connotations, just as terms like Democrat or Republican do in our culture. Among the most despised figures in Jewish society were the tax collectors, or publicans, who collected tribute for the oppressive Roman Empire.
A publican acted as a financial middleman, collecting various taxes such as road tolls, harbor dues, and purchase levies. Chief publicans, like Zacchaeus, oversaw entire regions and often amassed great wealth by overcharging and exploiting their fellow Jews. Essentially, publicans were seen as greedy traitors who profited from an unjust economic system—what we would call white-collar criminals today.
Zacchaeus' position as chief publican meant he was not just a participant but a leader in this corrupt system. However, his story took a radical turn when he encountered Jesus.
In Luke 19, Jesus is passing through Jericho, heading to Jerusalem for Passover. Despite being days away from His crucifixion, Jesus takes the time to walk through the town, looking for Zacchaeus.
Zacchaeus, unable to see over the crowd because of his short stature, humbles himself by climbing a sycamore tree to catch a glimpse of Jesus. In a moment of divine grace, Jesus stops, looks up, and calls Zacchaeus by name, inviting Himself to his house. This moment showcases a beautiful truth: while Zacchaeus was seeking Jesus, Jesus was already seeking him.
The turning point in Zacchaeus' story comes when he joyfully receives Jesus and declares his willingness to make restitution:
This response highlights a powerful principle: true financial transformation begins with a changed heart. Zacchaeus' generosity wasn't an attempt to earn salvation, but a response to the salvation he had already received.
Many people struggle with shame over their financial decisions, preferring to keep them hidden from God and others. Zacchaeus, however, openly acknowledged his financial failures and took steps to correct them. His story reminds us that God’s grace covers our past, and He calls us into a new future of faithful stewardship.
Zacchaeus' story ends with a bold proclamation: "Look, Lord, here and now I give!" His financial testimony stands as a powerful example of what happens when we allow Jesus to transform not just our hearts, but our wallets as well.Let Zacchaeus' example inspire you to take an honest look at your finances, surrender them to God, and trust Him to guide you in stewardship that honors Him.