Zacchaeus

Dear Friends in Christ,

Last weekend we heard the story of Zacchaeus who was very wealthy and received Jesus into his home. Now this man had more than what he needed and was protected by the policies of the Roman government. He could have just received Jesus, given him a nice dinner, and sent Him on his way without doing anything else. He would not have lost anything materially and he would have held on to his job as tax collector.

What made Zacchaeus change?

We may never know, but we do know that he did experience a real change of heart. We know that from what he said: “Behold, half of my possessions, Lord, I give to the poor, and if I have extorted anything from anyone I shall repay it four times over.” From this statement we can see that Zacchaeus had turned over a new leaf, that he had been converted. He was ready to let go of his wealth because he had found a treasure more valuable than silver or gold. He had found faith in God. Where our treasure is there is our heart, says the Bible. This is true. We find that we put most of our energies into what we want the most, what we are “passionate” about.

This weekend we are invited to reflect on the gifts God has given us and to respond to those gifts. This may mean joining a new group or ministry. It may mean deciding to commit to an hour of adoration every week. It may involve some talent that we have and wish to share.

During the coming week we are invited to reflect on the return we make to the Lord and His Church with respect to our material wealth. First of all we should thank the Lord for His gifts to us. After prayerful reflection we should be prepared to make a new commitment of our resources next Sunday. This new commitment should somehow be a measure of our desire to return something for God’s gifts. As a guide I would invite you to consider a percentage of your income rather than a fixed amount because money changes in value every day. Some say that 10% is a good percentage, 5% to the parish and 5% to your favorite charities. However, each one should give what he/she has inwardly decided.

Thank you for sharing your gifts of time, talent and treasure in our parish. The Lord loves a cheerful giver (see 2 Cor. 9: 7). May He reward you with true joy.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Fr. Hildebrand