How often has it happened that we know of a person who enjoys a particular stature or level of responsibility and because of that we feel that we owe that person a certain measure of respect? Has it ever happened that we see such people and think: I could never approach such a person, and even if I did, what would I ever say to him or her?
If we were to venture beyond the boundaries of our own comfort zones and dare to speak to such people, we might be surprised to find that even though they occupy a position that earns them a level of respect, there is still a human heart beating within them - a heart that has questions and fears just like every other heart - and that there is room for wonder and awe even in the heart of the person who appears to be most callous. I have often wondered if this was the case with Zacchaeus. On the outside, he was respected - even feared - by many because of the position of authority that he held, but deep within his heart he was curious about who Jesus was (cf Lk 19:3).
This curiosity led him to open his heart to welcome Jesus as he was passing by (cf Lk 19:5-6); in fact, his ability to make room in his heart to welcome Jesus made all the difference. Can we do the same? Are we aware that despite the successes we may have enjoyed in life there is still a thirst within our hearts to encounter Jesus? Can we make room in our hearts for him? Those who have, have never turned back, and his presence in our lives have made all the difference.
Have a great day.
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