Jesus and Zacchaeus
LESSON DATE & SCRIPTURE: May 31 | Luke 19:1–10
New city catechism question of the week:
Question #22:
Why must the Redeemer be truly human?
Answer:
That in human nature he might perfectly obey the whole law on our behalf and suffer the punishment for human sin.
Memory Verse: John 14:6
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
Talk about it together
When Jesus came to Jericho, a man named Zacchaeus wanted to see him. Zacchaeus was a tax collector, and many people did not like him because he had treated others unfairly. He cared more about money than about people.
A large crowd gathered to see Jesus, but Zacchaeus was too short to see over them. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree. When Jesus passed by, he looked up and called Zacchaeus by name. Jesus told him to come down because he wanted to visit his house that day.
The people were surprised that Jesus would spend time with someone like Zacchaeus. But Jesus knew Zacchaeus needed him. After meeting Jesus, Zacchaeus’ heart changed. He no longer loved money most. He wanted to love and follow Jesus. Zacchaeus promised to give half of what he owned to the poor and to repay anyone he had cheated.
Jesus changes hearts today, too. We all sin and need forgiveness. When we trust in Jesus, God forgives us and gives us a new heart that wants to love him and love others. Just as Jesus came to seek and save Zacchaeus, he came to seek and save us.
Family discussion
What was Zacchaeus’ job?
What did Zacchaeus climb to see Jesus?
Where did Jesus say he wanted to visit?
What happened to Zacchaeus’ heart after he met Jesus?
What did Zacchaeus do with his money after his heart changed?
Family prayer
Lord, thank you for coming to seek and save sinners. Thank you for changing our hearts and helping us follow you. Amen.