MORNING WATCH | DAY 20
FOLLOW JESUS 365: YEAR OF FAITH IN ACTION
THEME: Jesus Sees and Values Even Those Others Look Down On
(Zacchaeus’ Story – Luke 19:1-10)
OPENING PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for this new day. Open our eyes to see others the way You do – not by their status or what others say about them, but by the precious souls You created. Help us to follow Jesus’ example of seeking out and valuing every person, especially those who feel overlooked. In Jesus’ name, amen.
SCRIPTURE FOCUS
“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… When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, ‘Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.’ … Jesus said to him, ‘Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.’”
– Luke 19:1-10 (NIV)
ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE REFERENCES
-
Luke 4:18-19 – “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor… to set the oppressed free…”
-
Mark 2:17 – “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”
-
Matthew 25:40 – “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
ELLEN G. WHITE QUOTATION
“Christ saw in [Zacchaeus] capabilities for good. He saw the better traits of his character. The plan of redemption has invested humanity with great possibilities… Jesus knows the circumstances of every soul. You may say, I am sinful, very sinful. You may be; but the worse you are, the more you need Jesus. He turns no weeping, contrite one away.”
– Adapted from Conflict and Courage, p. 309 and The Desire of Ages, p. 568
KEY REFLECTION
Zacchaeus was despised by his community, but Jesus saw his heart – calling him by name, honoring him, and transforming his life completely. Jesus values every single person – no matter their past, reputation, or what others think of them. When we look down on someone, we miss the opportunity to see the beloved child of God they are.
FAITH IN ACTION CHALLENGE FOR TODAY
- See with Jesus’ eyes – Identify someone often overlooked or looked down on
- Reach out intentionally – Do one small act of kindness (a greeting, listening ear, or help)
- Speak life – Choose words that build up instead of tearing down
CLOSING MEDITATION
“Lord Jesus, help me to look beyond outward appearances and social labels. Give me the courage to reach out to those others ignore, just as You reached for Zacchaeus. May my life reflect Your love that leaves no one behind.”
Who is one person you can reach out to today with the love of Jesus? Share your thoughts!