Tuesday of the Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time
The first reading from Revelation today is a stark reminder of what we might expect at the end of times. The eschatological theme implores us to live our lives in a worthy manner, for we “will never know at what hour I will come upon you.” An unfortunate reality of our society today is that we ignore this warning. We live our lives based on what suits us at the present time; what keeps us comfortable. We pride ourselves and measure our “success” based on worldly and material idols like money or fame. We look to God only when things go wrong, and we need something from Him. Again, scripture warns us against this, calling the rich and affluent “pitiable, poor, blind, and naked.”
Today’s Gospel demonstrates worldly and material success in Zacchaeus, although his story is different. Despite having everything he needs insofar as money, he still felt lacking and desired to see Jesus. His desire was so strong that he climbed a sycamore tree just to see Jesus. The crowds were appalled that Jesus would, in essence, stoop down so low as to associate Himself with the likes of Zacchaeus. Of course, they miss the point. This moved Zacchaeus to “be earnest, therefore, and repent,” as Revelation challenges us. When, in our day-to-day lives, do we make the effort to “climb the sycamore” to see Jesus? Do we take the time and make the effort, or do we continue to seek what is comfortable to us—the things that keep us away from Christ?
May we be ever mindful and make a conscious decision every moment of every day to turn away from sin and follow Christ, for He, the Son of Man, “has come to seek and to save what was lost.”
Reflection by George, seminarian
Posted in Articles for Ordinary Time, Daily Reflections