Luke 19:1-4 – Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. He wanted to see who Jesus was, but being a short man he could not, because of the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way. (NIV)

Chance, the seven-year-old Sheltie we adopted from the animal shelter, was having a bad day. We were dog-sitting for our neighbours, which meant that on top of our own nine, we now had two more canines romping about the place. Chance had been the only dog in his last home, and though he has adjusted well, his behaviour was telling me that he was feeling lost in the crowd. He needed some special tender loving care.

As I took a few moments to give Chance some much needed one-on-one and reassurance, I was reminded of how sometimes I, too, can get lost in the crowd and not see Jesus amidst the busyness of my day. Responsibilities, hobbies, and the unexpected can crowd Him out, which in turn can leave me feeling aimless and overwhelmed amidst a busy schedule. At such times, I have learned to be like Zacchaeus. I take a moment and climb up above all that's crowding my vision from seeing the One to whom I have committed to guide my life: Jesus.

Today, there will be many things which may seek to crowd us from seeing Jesus. When they do so, let us remember Zacchaeus, and take time to climb above the crowd. Jesus is waiting and would love to spend some quality time with each and every one of us.

Prayer: Lord God, thank You that You always know where we are and what we are doing, even when we feel crowded and shut off from Your presence. Grant that each of us, no matter how busy we are, will climb above our own personal crowd to spend time with You. In Christ's name, we ask. Amen.

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About the author:

Lynne Phipps <lynnephippsatlin@gmail.com>
Tawatinaw, Alberta, Canada
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