Week 9 | Day 2 CLOSE ENCOUNTERS Luke 19:1-10 | John 12:1-11

Luke 19:1–10 and John 12:1–11 are connected by context and timing as Jesus moves steadily toward Jerusalem and the cross. In Luke 19, Jesus encountered Zacchaeus, a wealthy and despised tax collector in Jericho. Though socially rejected and spiritually compromised, Zacchaeus was sought out by Jesus, who invited Himself into his home. This encounter led to genuine repentance and visible transformation as Zacchaeus restored what he stole and committed to generous restitution. Jesus declared that salvation had come to Zacchaeus’ house, revealing His mission “to seek and to save the lost.”

In John 12:1–11, just days before the crucifixion, Jesus was in Bethany at a dinner where Mary anointed His feet with costly perfume. Her act of worship—lavish, humble, and public—contrasted sharply with Judas’ greed and the growing hostility of the religious leaders. The significance of these passages together is striking: grace produces transformation (Zacchaeus) and devotion (Mary). One life is changed through repentance; another responds through worship. Both reveal that a true encounter with Jesus always results in a visible response—and both provoke resistance from those who value power, control, or self-interest more than Christ.

Application
 
1. Respond Honestly When Jesus Calls—without Delay or Excuse

Say “yes” to what Christ is prompting right away, instead of stalling with reasons or conditions.

2. Examine Whether Your Faith is Producing Tangible Life Change

Check to see if your beliefs are showing up in your choices, attitudes, relationships, and habits in noticeable ways—no change, then no Jesus.

3. Offer Jesus Your Best, never Your Least and Leftovers—in Worship, Obedience, and Stewardship

Give God first place and highest priority rather than whatever time, energy, or resources remain.

4. Refuse to Allow Cynicism or Selfishness to Dull Your Devotion to Christ

Guard your heart from sarcasm, bitterness, or self-focus so your love for Jesus stays warm and responsive.

5. Live Boldly for Jesus, even When Others Disapprove

Choose faithful obedience and open witness even if it costs comfort, popularity, or acceptance.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for seeking the lost and welcoming the broken. Like Zacchaeus, help me respond to Your grace with repentance and transformed living. Like Mary, teach me to worship You with humility, courage, and wholehearted devotion. Guard my heart from greed, pride, or fear, and help my life reflect the change only You can bring. May my faith be visible, my worship sincere, and my obedience complete. Amen.