CLIMBING THE TREE OF HUMILITY

Meditation for the Thirty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C
(Wis 11:22—12:2; 2 Thes 1:11—2:2; Lk 19:1-10)

Let us meditate on the encounter between Jesus and Zacchaeus. The name ‘Zacchaeus’ is a Hebrew name meaning, ‘pure’ or ‘innocent.’ But the man of Jericho named Zacchaeus was far from innocent, for he was an extortioner, who enriched himself as the chief tax collector. Jesus, the real pure and innocent, was passing through Jericho. Zacchaeus, though he was rich, had a longing deeper than what wealth could afford. “And he sought to see Jesus”, the One in whom the meaning of his name is fulfilled; the One whose message offers the satisfaction that gives meaning and value to our lives, the message of eternal life.

Zacchaeus made several efforts to see Jesus. It was as if he wanted to behold the ‘meaning of his name’, the meaning and fulfilment of his life in Jesus. But natural limitations and human obstacles made it difficult for him, because the crowd was too much, and he was small in stature. He had every reason to give up, just as some of us do when we encounter difficulties in our vocations, moral life, and career. Zacchaeus continued to press forward: “So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see Him, for He was to pass that way.” This kind of effort comes from a man who recognized within him a yearning stronger than the obstacles. In addition, for a man of his repute to climb a tree just catch a glimpse of Jesus is a humble gesture. Meditate on how the man’s perseverance and humility took him to that spiritual height where his human capacity could not reach, and above that barrier, which his natural capabilities could not overcome.

 

“And when Jesus came to the place, He looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, make haste and come down; for I must stay at your house today.” Again, meditate on the humility of Jesus, who had to suspend his journey, abandoned the clamour of the multitude, and settled in the house of this one short man! Zacchaeus made effort, but Jesus made it possible. In this encounter, see a display of the divine wisdom expressed in the first reading that God is merciful to all. He can do all things, and He overlooks men’s sins so that they can repent. “Therefore, you correct little by little those who trespass, and remind and warn them of the things wherein they sin, that they may be freed from wickedness and put their trust in you, O Lord.” In the joy of this encounter, Zacchaeus made another effort to be ‘pure and innocent’ like Jesus by offering to give alms to the poor, and to restore in fourfold whatever he extorted from anyone. Jesus fulfilled this effort by granting him the greater offer of salvation, and restored him to the dignity of “a son of Abraham.” Jesus has restored his identity; Zacchaeus is now truly ‘pure’ and ‘innocent.’

 

Yes, “The Son of man came to seek and to save the lost.” Awareness of the emptiness within should inspire us to long for deeper satisfaction. An honest search for truth is the right step forward. There are so many limitations and obstacles on our way. Our prayers are often marred by distractions and inconsistency. The little knowledge of God we possess is frequently eroded by secularism. However, we should make some humble efforts and persevere like Zacchaeus. If we climb the ‘sycamore tree of humility’, we will see Jesus! That is why St. Paul explains in the second reading that God will make us worthy of His call, and fulfill every good resolve and work of faith we have begone, “So that the name of Jesus may by glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.” Amen.  

 

Fr Jude Chinwenwa Nwachukwu, C.Ss.R

Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church,

Tedi-Muwo, Lagos.

Sunday October 30, 2022.

www.nwachinwe.blogspot.com