The story is familiar. Jesus goes to Zacchaeus’ house.
In Luke Jesus walks through the gates of Jericho.
This story reminds us of Joshua (same Hebrew name) approaching Jericho in Joshua chapter 1. This story would have been familiar to those of Jesus time.
The story would likely have been a model to people of Jesus time of conquest for God’s kingdom.
The Old Testament story of the walls coming down was seen as an opportunity to conquer with the sword, (‘dedicate to the Lord by total destruction’) and to curse (‘at the expense of the first born will be anyone who tries to rebuild’)
Jesus comes along.
He has the same name as Joshua.
Same city.
He comes and shows another way to break down a wall and bring God’s kingdom. The wall he breaks down is one of class, culture, or a wall of acceptance/non-acceptance.
But note the setting for the story: Jericho.
Jesus speaks to the one that society has labeled an outsider- a tax collector. This outsider is so touched by the offer of acceptance, even a simple proposal of a hospitable visit, that he has a change of heart.
Jesus does not point out Zacchaeus’sin, but in the spirit of acceptance, Zacchaeus repents and offers restitution.
Jesus offers us a ‘new’ model of how to conquer/break down walls; and advance the kingdom: disarming hospitality.
(maybe not a ‘new’ model; but a recovered one: In the Old Testament story in Joshua; only the Prostitute & her family [outcasts] were saved as the city was destroyed.)
Even just simple conversation, prompted by the spirit, words spoken where walls exist, can make walls crumble, and usher in salvation.
... Rev Daniel Helm, Liberty Center UM Church, North Indiana Confernce
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