Luke 19:1–5 (NIV)

“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 because he was short he could not see over the crowd.
So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way.
When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, ‘Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.’”

Zacchaeus was a man of status, power, and wealth. As a chief tax collector, he worked under Roman authority, often viewed by his fellow Jews as a traitor and a sinner. Yet, despite his social standing and material success, he sensed something was missing  and that “something” was Jesus.

Driven by a deep curiosity and perhaps a spiritual hunger, Zacchaeus climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see Jesus. But when Jesus reached him, He said something profound:

“Zacchaeus, come down immediately.” (v. 5)

This call wasn’t just about coming down from a tree. It was symbolic. To truly receive Christ, Zacchaeus had to come down from his place of pride, status, and self-reliance. The tree represented more than height it represented everything he was trusting in besides God.

The Sycamore Tree: A Symbol of Human Pride

In Scripture, pride is consistently portrayed as something that separates us from God. The “tree” in this story can be seen as a metaphor for:

• The pride of wealth (1 Timothy 6:17)

  “Command those who are rich… not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God…”

• The pride of position or authority (Matthew 23:12)

  “For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

• The pride of beauty or self-image (Proverbs 31:30)

  “Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”

• The pride of knowledge or education (1 Corinthians 8:1)

  “…Knowledge puffs up while love builds up.”

These things are not evil in themselves, but when they become obstacles to faith and humility, they hinder our relationship with Christ.

The Power of a Humble Response

Luke 19:6 (NIV)
“So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly.”

Zacchaeus responded immediately and joyfully. That’s the essence of true repentance not only turning from sin, but also turning toward Christ with eagerness and surrender. His humility led to transformation:

Luke 19:8 (NIV)
“Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.”

This wasn’t to earn salvation, but a fruit of his salvation  public sign of his changed heart. According to Old Testament law, restitution for fraud required repayment plus one-fifth (Leviticus 6:1–5). Zacchaeus went far beyond that  fourfold  showing genuine repentance and renewal.

Jesus then declares:

Luke 19:9–10 (NIV)
“Today salvation has come to this house… For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

Salvation didn’t come because Zacchaeus gave money or made restitution. Those were signs of the real work of grace that had already taken place. He was found by Christ, and in response, he laid everything down including his pride.

Are You Still in the Tree?

Many today are still sitting in their own “sycamore trees” elevated by pride, achievements, or self-sufficiency. But Jesus calls each of us to come down. He wants to abide in our hearts, but we must first humble ourselves.

James 4:6 (NIV)
“God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”

A Call to Humility

Let this story remind us that no one is too lost, too rich, or too sinful to encounter Jesus. But the way to Him is through humility. Only when we “come down”  spiritually, emotionally, and mentally can we experience the joy of true fellowship with Christ.

“Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” (Luke 19:5)

He is still calling. Will you come down?

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In Zechariah 10:1, it says:

“Ask the Lord for rain in the time of the spring rains, for the Lord makes clouds, and he gives them showers of rain, to everyone vegetation in the field.”

This verse highlights the importance of praying in the right season. God’s providence is tied to the natural order and timing He has established (Genesis 8:22). Asking for rain during the rainy season aligns with His created rhythm and reflects faith in His timing.

Why does the scripture specify praying for rain during the spring rains and not during the dry season? Because the spring rains are the appointed time for rain. If rain fails to come then, it is an extraordinary situation that calls for prayer (James 5:17-18). But praying for rain during the dry season, when it is naturally less expected, is less effective because it is outside God’s ordained time.

This principle applies broadly to prayer and God’s blessings: there is a time and season for everything (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Praying in alignment with God’s timing is crucial for effective prayers.

For example:

• If you are a student, praying for academic success and wisdom (James 1:5) fits your current season better than praying for wealth or a spouse.
• If you are young and still dependent on your parents, praying for protection and good character is appropriate until you reach the season of marriage (1 Timothy 4:12).

When you pray for the right things in God’s appointed season, He responds with mercy and grace (Psalm 145:8-9). Even if answers seem delayed, God’s timing is perfect (Ecclesiastes 3:11), and His delays are for our good (Romans 8:28).

If you are in the right season but don’t yet see results, be patient and trust God’s promises (Hebrews 6:12). He will strengthen you daily (Isaiah 40:31).

Salvation also has its appointed season—and that season is now.

2 Corinthians 6:1-2 says:

“Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”

This underscores the urgency of responding to God’s grace. Salvation is a present reality offered through faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9), but this opportunity will not last forever. Scripture warns that a time will come when the door of grace closes (Hebrews 10:26-27) and forgiveness is no longer available (Ecclesiastes 11:3).

Many today ignore God’s warnings about sin (Romans 1:18-32) and reject His offer of salvation. But God’s patience is not infinite (2 Peter 3:9), and judgment will come for those who persist in rebellion (Hebrews 10:31).

2 Chronicles 36:15-16 shows how God sent prophets to warn His people, but they rejected them until His wrath came and no remedy remained. This reminds us that ignoring God’s timing and warnings leads to judgment.

Pray in accordance with God’s timing, understanding the season you are in. Seek God’s guidance, protection, and provision relevant to your stage in life. Above all, respond to the urgent call of salvation today while God’s grace is available.

May the Lord help us discern the right seasons and respond faithfully.

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Question: Between Simon Peter and Mary Magdalene, who was the first to see the risen Lord Jesus? Luke 24:34 says Jesus appeared first to Simon Peter, but Mark 16:9 says Mary Magdalene was the first. How can these two statements be reconciled?

Biblical Examination

Luke 24:33-34 states:

“They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together, saying, ‘The Lord has truly risen and has appeared to Simon!’”

This passage highlights that Jesus appeared to Simon Peter (also called Cephas).

On the other hand, Mark 16:9 records:

“When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons.”

This clearly identifies Mary Magdalene as the first person to see the risen Jesus.

Sequence and Significance

There is no contradiction here because the passages emphasize different moments and theological meanings.

1. Mary Magdalene as the First Witness:
   Mark 16:9 and John 20:1-18 emphasize Mary Magdalene’s role as the first human witness to the resurrection. Theologically, this is significant because Mary represents the marginalized and forgiven sinner (Luke 8:2), demonstrating that the resurrection is a message of hope for all, not just the religious elite.
2. Peter as the First Apostle Witness:
   Luke 24:34 stresses Jesus’ appearance to Simon Peter, who was the leader of the apostles (Matthew 16:18-19). Theologically, this establishes Peter’s authority in the early Church and affirms apostolic witness, crucial for the foundation of the Christian faith (Ephesians 2:20).
3. Sequence of Appearances:
   Mary Magdalene’s encounter happened early, immediately after Jesus’ resurrection, as recorded in Mark and John. After informing the disciples, Jesus appeared to Peter (1 Corinthians 15:5), validating Peter’s role as an eyewitness and leader.

Supporting Scripture

John 20:14-18 
Mary Magdalene weeps outside the empty tomb and is the first to see Jesus after His resurrection, highlighting the personal, relational nature of the risen Christ calling His follower by name.

1 Corinthians 15:3-8
Paul summarizes resurrection appearances:

“…that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time…”

This passage emphasizes the historical reality and communal testimony of Jesus’ resurrection, foundational for Christian faith.

Have you personally encountered the risen Jesus? The resurrection promises victory over death and eternal life (John 11:25-26). As we live in the last days (Hebrews 1:2), the question remains: where will you be when Jesus returns? The gospel is the power of God for salvation (Romans 1:16)—don’t reject it as foolishness.

May the grace of our risen Lord Jesus Christ empower and guide us always.

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Blessed be the name of our Lord and Savior, JESUS CHRIST.

The Lesson from the Fig Tree

One morning, as Jesus was returning to the city, He became hungry. Seeing a fig tree by the roadside, He approached it to look for fruit. But despite its healthy appearance—full of leaves—He found none. Then He said:

“May you never bear fruit again!”
Immediately, the tree withered.
— Matthew 21:18–19 (NIV)

At first glance, this might seem harsh. Why would Jesus curse a tree for not having fruit—especially when it wasn’t even the season for figs (Mark 11:13)?

But Jesus wasn’t acting out of frustration. This moment was symbolic. He was using the fig tree as a powerful visual lesson for His disciples—and for us.

Outward Appearance vs. Inner Reality

In biblical times, a fig tree in full leaf would normally signal the presence of early, edible fruit. If it had leaves, it should have had some figs, even if small or unripe. But this tree had all the signs of fruitfulness—yet it was empty. It looked alive but was barren.

This fig tree represents people who appear godly on the outside but are spiritually empty on the inside. They have the “leaves” of religion: church attendance, Christian language, even leadership roles. But when God looks deeper, He finds no fruit—no evidence of true repentance, love, faith, or obedience.

“These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.”
— Matthew 15:8 (NIV)

Just as Jesus expected fruit from the fig tree, God expects fruit in our lives. That fruit includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22–23). Without this fruit, our faith is a facade.

The Danger of Lukewarm Faith

Many Christians today live deceived lives—outwardly religious but inwardly unchanged. This is the same condition Jesus warns about in the book of Revelation:

“I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other!
So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.”
— Revelation 3:15–16 (NIV)

Lukewarm faith is offensive to God. It’s better to be cold (fully apart from God and aware of it) than to pretend to be close to Him while remaining spiritually dead. Lukewarm believers are content with surface-level religion, but their hearts remain unchanged. That’s dangerous, because deception is worse than ignorance—it blinds you to your true condition.

God Desires Sincerity, Not Show

God doesn’t want empty religion—He wants a real relationship. Jesus cursed the fig tree not because it failed naturally, but because it pretended to be fruitful. That pretense—hypocrisy—is what drew judgment.

“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs,
which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead.”
— Matthew 23:27 (NIV)

It’s not enough to look the part. God sees the heart.

So What Should We Do?

If we find ourselves living like that fig tree—impressive on the outside but empty within—then it’s time to change. God gives us the opportunity to repent and bear fruit. He is patient, but not forever.

“Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.”
— Matthew 3:8 (NIV)

If you choose to follow Christ, do it with all your heart. Don’t settle for being “half-Christian.” If you’re going to be a believer, be fully committed. Jesus said:

“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”
— Luke 9:23 (NIV)

Final Encouragement

Let’s not just carry the name of Christ—let’s reflect His character.
Let our lives be filled with true spiritual fruit, not just leafy appearances.

Ask God to search your heart and make your faith genuine.
Pray for the strength to live boldly and fruitfully for Him.
And if you’re lukewarm, ask Him to set your heart on fire again.

“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise… Instead he is patient with you,
not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
— 2 Peter 3:9 (NIV)

May Jesus help us live lives of real faith, not fake appearances.
May we be fruitful trees, not leafy deceivers.

God bless you

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Let’s reflect deeply on the identity of our Lord Jesus Christ through Scripture.

The Reality of Jesus’ Divine Identity

Imagine a high-ranking person disguising themselves as a servant, wearing humble clothes beneath their status. Such a person would likely be mocked, despised, and rejected by others who don’t recognize their true identity. But if those who scorned him truly understood who he was, none would dare to disrespect or mock him; instead, they would honor and fear him.

This is exactly what happened to Jesus. Though He was crucified, His persecutors did not know His true identity. They assumed He was just a criminal or a mere prophet, but He is far greater — He is the Alpha and Omega, God Himself manifested in human flesh. Even the Apostle Paul acknowledges in 1 Corinthians 2:7-8

“But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.”

This “hidden wisdom” is the profound truth of Jesus’ divinity and incarnation — that God became man, a mystery beyond human understanding but foundational to the Christian faith (cf. John 1:14).

Jesus as the Alpha and Omega

The book of Revelation reveals this divine identity clearly. In Revelation 1:8, God declares:

“I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord God, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.”

The titles Alpha and Omega (the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet) symbolize God’s eternal nature — He is the beginning and the end, existing outside of time. Jesus applies this title to Himself, making a clear claim to divinity (cf. Revelation 22:13).

Revelation 21:5-7 shows this Alpha and Omega actively working in history:

“And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.
I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.
He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.”

Here, God promises new creation and eternal life freely to all who believe. The relationship of God and believer as Father and child is profound — a divine adoption through Jesus Christ (Romans 8:15).

The Mystery of the Incarnation

Paul describes this mystery in 1 Timothy 3:16:

“Without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.”

The incarnation — God becoming flesh — is the cornerstone of Christian theology. Jesus is fully God and fully man, not a hybrid, but both natures united in one person (cf. John 1:1,14; Colossians 2:9).

Jesus’ Messianic Identity and Divine Lordship

Jesus also challenged religious leaders to rethink His identity (Matthew 22:42-46:

“What think ye of Christ? whose son is he? They say unto him, The son of David.
He saith unto them, How then doth David in spirit call him Lord, saying,
The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool?
If David then call him Lord, how is he his son?
And no man was able to answer him a word, neither durst any man from that day forth ask him any more questions.”

Here Jesus exposes a divine paradox: He is the descendant of David (human Messiah), yet David calls Him “Lord” — a title for God Himself. This reveals Jesus’ dual nature as both human and divine.

Why This Matters

Knowing Jesus only as the “Son of David” or “Son of God” without understanding His full divinity limits our understanding of salvation. The Bible affirms that salvation comes through Jesus Christ, God incarnate, whose blood redeems us (Hebrews 9:14; 1 John 1:7).

This truth can be difficult to grasp — just as it is hard to understand that God has no beginning or end (Psalm 90:2). But faith calls us to accept these mysteries by the Holy Spirit’s help.

Believing that Jesus is God in the flesh deepens our gratitude and reverence. It reminds us that our salvation is not from the blood of any mere man but from the blood of the eternal God who loved us enough to become human and die for us.

For Further Study

• Titus 2:13: “Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ.” — A direct reference to Jesus as God and Savior.
• Isaiah 9:6: “For unto us a child is born… and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” — A prophecy of Jesus’ divine nature.

May the Lord help us all to grasp this profound truth and live in the power of Jesus Christ, the Alpha and Omega.

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Blessed be the name of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Let us take time to learn and obey the Scriptures.

God holds us accountable for what we know (Romans 1:20; Hebrews 10:26-27). Pretending ignorance when you actually know the truth is dangerous because it is a form of testing God and rejecting His revealed will.

Biblical Example:
In Mark 11:27-33, religious leaders questioned Jesus’ authority. When Jesus asked them about John the Baptist’s baptism—which they knew was from God—they pretended ignorance out of fear. Jesus refused to answer their question because they were not sincere but testing Him.

Mark 11:27-33
“By what authority are you doing these things?” they asked. “And who gave you this authority to do them?” Jesus replied, “I will ask you one question. Answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. John’s baptism—was it from heaven, or from men? Tell me!” They discussed it and said, “We don’t know.” Jesus said, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.”

This shows that when we come to God with questions or prayers but ignore what He has already revealed, we are essentially testing God and may receive no clear answers.

Moral Clarity from Scripture:
The Bible clearly states what is sin:

• Stealing is sin (Ephesians 4:28)
• Adultery and sexual immorality are sin (1 Corinthians 6:18)
• Idol worship is sin (Exodus 20:3-5)
• Living with someone else’s spouse is sin (Hebrews 13:4)

When Scripture is clear, it is dangerous to keep doubting or asking God to confirm what is already revealed. Doing so tests God and may leave one spiritually confused.

Conscience and Divine Guidance:
Your conscience, when aligned with Scripture, guides you in right and wrong (Romans 2:14-15). If your conscience and the Bible clearly say an act is wrong, do not expect God to contradict His own Word.

James 4:17
“Anyone, then, who knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, sins.”

The Authority of Scripture:
God’s Word is the final authority (2 Timothy 3:16-17). The Bible is God’s clear and unchanging voice. If you want to hear God’s will, read the Bible instead of relying solely on dreams, visions, or human leaders.

Final Warning:
Stop pretending ignorance about eternal truths like Hell, sin, and God’s commands. Don’t ask God to justify actions you already know are wrong, such as selling alcohol or engaging in immoral behavior. The lack of answers does not mean God is silent—He has spoken clearly through His Word.

May God help us to obey His Word and live in truth.

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