He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” –Mark 16:15 NIV
The Great Commission in Mark 16 tells us to go into all the world telling everyone the Good News of Jesus Christ. Zacchaeus was a tax collector in biblical times; he was a despicable, little man. When Jesus saw Zacchaeus perched in the tree looking for a glimpse of Him, He asked Zacchaeus to come down because He needed to stay at his home. The crowd around Jesus muttered, “He has gone to be the guest of a sinner” (Luke 19:7 NIV).Isn’t that how we look at some groups of people that we don’t agree with, understand, or love? Don’t be scared of loving the Zacchaeuses in your life. The Lord will help you love others to Him. Share the Gospel of Jesus with them. Let them know that Jesus died for them and loves them with an unconditional love. He accepts them just as they are. The gift of salvation is for all.This is the “Great Commission” in action. Go to the parts of town you avoid, even to the societal groups that offend you. Go to the family member who has chosen a different lifestyle. Love them where they are and extend to them an invitation for a better way of living and the hope of a glorious eternity.
As God accepted you when you first came to Him, accept and show the love of Jesus to the people you cross paths with daily.
As disciples of Christ, we are to serve and witness to others. We are to point people to Him.