Randy Wray’s Blog

What hatred could not do, Jesus accomplished with love.

What rejection could not do, Jesus accomplished with acceptance.

What disdain could not do, Jesus accomplished with respect.

What insults could not do, Jesus accomplished with kindness.

With twelve words Jesus changed the life of Zacchaeus with the miracle of love and acceptance.

Nestled within the story of Luke 19:1-10 is an amazing subtle detail.

When Jesus came to that place, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down!  I must stay at your house today.”  (Luke 19:5 NCV)

Jesus knew so much about Zacchaeus.  Jesus knew that Zacchaeus was a lost soul - that he had an abundance of material things but needed something more.

Jesus knew that his own countrymen hated Zacchaeus - hated all tax collectors and “sinners” and determined to extend love where hate had taken up residence.

Jesus knew that generosity and kindness could be extracted from this turnip named Zacchaeus - not by force or pressure but by love and acceptance.

Most of all Jesus knew his name.  Yes, Jesus knew the name of one of the most despised residents of Jericho.

Every spent much time considering the implications of the Savior of the world who knows you by name?

I have a Maker
He formed my heart
Before even time began
My life was in his hands

He knows my name
He knows my every thought
He sees each tear that falls
and He hears me when I call

I have a Father
He calls me His own
He’ll never leave me
No matter where I go

He knows my name
He knows my every thought
He sees each tear that falls
and He hears me when I call