Week 22 (26 May - 1 June) : Jesus Came to Seek and Save the Lost

Luke 19:1–10 tells the story of Zacchaeus, the short and despised tax collector in Jericho. There are several important lessons we can draw from the three characters in this story: Zacchaeus, the crowd, and Jesus.

Zacchaeus

Zacchaeus was eager to see Jesus. He climbed a tree to get a better view, and Jesus noticed him—calling him by name and inviting Himself to Zacchaeus’s house. This encounter led to Zacchaeus’s transformation. He was willing to repent and make amends to those he had hurt. Zacchaeus’s actions and response to Jesus demonstrated a genuine faith, which brought salvation to him and his household.

Zacchaeus’s story is inspiring. His spiritual curiosity and openness earned him a legacy of faith. Mr. Tan shared that while we can’t avoid trials and obstacles in life, it is important that we don’t let them stop us from seeking and following Jesus. His sharing was on point and prompted us to reflect: Do we have the same burning desire as Zacchaeus to know Jesus? What are some of the obstacles holding us back?

Zacchaeus’s life was transformed. We are reminded, too, to reflect on our own salvation—how were we changed by Jesus’s love? When Jesus comes into our lives, transformation takes place. We can invite the Holy Spirit to show us the areas where change has happened—or still needs to happen.

The Crowd

Verse 7 says, “All the people saw this and began to mutter, ‘He has gone to be the guest of a sinner.’” The crowd despised Zacchaeus because of his work and reputation. They disapproved of Jesus associating with him. This negative response reveals our human tendency to judge based on appearance or reputation, rather than character or action.

In our discussion, we asked the Holy Spirit to reveal someone we may have judged or treated unfairly. We invited the Holy Spirit to help us look beyond the surface and recognize the good and the potential in that person. I pray that by God’s grace, we will grow continually in compassion and wisdom. May we not be quick to judge or form hasty conclusions, but instead seek to understand others and their hearts.

Jesus

While society ostracized Zacchaeus, Jesus sought him out and befriended him. Verse 10 says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Jesus does not despise anyone. He wants to be with us and be our personal friend—that is the heartbeat of Jesus.

Aunty Jenny shared her journey with Christ, how Jesus brought her back after decades of wandering. She was lost, but then found. She spoke with deep gratitude, sharing how many times she had witnessed God’s amazing grace in her life.

Zacchaeus’s story is close to my heart—it brings back memories of listening to the song “Zacchaeus Was a Wee Little Man” with my kids when they were babies and toddlers. A simple yet powerful story that brings hope and salvation, highlighting God’s willingness to reach out to the lost and transform lives.

We closed the session with thanksgiving, praising Jesus, our Shepherd who leads, seeks, guides, and loves unconditionally.

Blessings to all,

中文小组