Some trees towered up higher than others, sometimes alone, in the gently sloping grasslands. These lone standing trees are sturdy withstanding diverse seasons of the year. Towering up, in its verb form, is to rise up, climb up, or soar at a great height.
With the onset of summer season, cultivation of crops has started and the work ends just before fall, in the region where I grew up. We spent, almost the entire fall season, herding our domestic cattle. They were let off from their toiling work schedule. The animals worked in paddy fields, which would yield harvest enough for a big family to survive another year.
Once in the pasture, we towered up by climbing the lone and branchy trees to get better view of our herds. We can see distances by towering ourselves up in the tree. We’d only get down if our herds try to wander away and damage the nearby fields. It is our job to keep our herds well fed and take them home when the sun downs.
We rested well on the branches, escaping from the warm and humid air. Here up in the tree, we escape from blood sucking leeches, there are less or no insect bites, abundant fresh air, and full view of the area. Sometimes we slept; we share our dreams for the future. The other times we ended up singing choruses, beautifully echoed by the landscapes.
A rest taken in the most desired timing was priceless! It rejuvenated our body and soul. The branches are soft and as comfortable as the luxurious sofas, at that very moment.
Towering up to see the Son of God:
Now, there was a man who wanted to get a very good view of the Son of God. He was eager to see Him but chances are grim. There was large gathering of crowd and he was short. The man was Zacchaeus; the wealthy chief tax collector.
Jesus was passing through Jericho, the city where Zacchaeus was also residing and working. He wanted to see and witness Jesus’ visit to Jericho. For a person who was likely to be despised for working with the Roman Empire and corrupt as well, one can only imagine the reason behind his eagerness to see Jesus Christ.
Here it is noteworthy, of his action, that Zacchaeus ran ahead on the way and towered himself up to see Jesus Christ by climbing on a sycamore-fig tree. He doesn’t want to miss his chance. In his own effort, he did what is necessary to, just get a glimpse, or see Christ!
The Joy of Seeing God:
When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” So he came down and welcomed Jesus gladly. And that’s how the Bible noted. (Luke 19: 1-10)
Zacchaeus seems to be guilt-ridden in his heart. He must’ve acquired some of his wealth illegally. Being a man dealing with wealth and money, he must’ve some burden with which he needs help; at least for some peace of mind. Pardon me, if I’m wrong here, for I’m not a theologian.
It was somehow tiresome working with numbers and money, as I too had some years of experience in the field. So, again my assumption, Zacchaeus might have known that only Jesus Christ or some superior entity could help him out in his situation; since he was regarded as traitor because of his profession.
He confessed and promised to rectify his wrongdoings, if ever. Then he too was assured his much-needed salvation, which would give him peace of mind. There’s joy in seeing Jesus Christ!
The Need for Towering:
In almost everything, in order to get a clearer picture we need to get closer. Towering up is giving our effort; and giving our effort is acknowledging what we did, in the hope of something we do not have yet. In other words, we’re putting our faith to work. It basically is the outcome of a thinking mind.
When we climb up the lone trees wile herding, we did so because it offers rest and better view. In the same way, Zacchaeus climb the sycamore-fig tree as he wanted to see Jesus. If not, Jesus might simply pass by without meeting Zacchaeus amidst the large crowd. So his effort counts!
To commune with our Savior we need take time out; sacrifice some portion of our days. The mind and soul embedded in the matters of the world will see less of Him; less of His goodness and work. Assuming the work of God as granted and natural, when it works well, would partially blinded us.
Being absorb or busy in our occupational ventures is a good thing. But I believe there’s something more to it. There must be times when we towered ourselves up to get closer and better view of the Lord who came to see you.
Grace is here:
I have seen some faithful people who are a misfit to the world. Jesus Christ said, “You do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.” (John 15:19)
When I focused myself too much on the ground level of life, hiding in the realms of the intensity of my sufferings and pain; I’m weary. My existence seems to be meaningless. But when I towered my heart up, as I lay worn on the floor; I’m comforted with hope in His presence.
In His abiding grace, our Savior is ready as ever to visit us, if we wanted Him in. It was only in His grace that He visited Zacchaeus. Bridging earth to heaven; His visiting would last forever!
Let me end here with my short prayer of hope:
Do not pass me by,
Let your grace come to me.
I’m weary in my way,
Waiting for you to touch me;
Helpless here I lay.
In your presence tower me,
No more will I stray!
