Zacchaeus was a little tax man who shinnied up a sycamore tree to get a good look at Jesus. The Teacher spotted him perched on one of the branches, told him to come down, and then invited Himself over for a meal.
During dinner something happened that revolutionized the tax collector's life. Luke's record tells us nothing about the conversation, but when Zacchaeus emerged from the house that afternoon he made a dramatic announcement. He promised to give away half of his wealth to poor people, and to return fourfold the amount of money he had taken dishonestly.
We think we are generous if we give God 10 percent of our income. Most pastors and deacons would be delighted if everyone in the congregation contributed 5 percent.
The mark of Zacchaeus' transformation was his staggering generosity. That's why Jesus declared, "Today salvation has come to this house" (Lk. 19:9). Obviously, salvation isn't bought with money, but one evidence of whether or not people have trusted Christ is how completely they trust Him with all they own.
Do we display a love and generosity that is compatible with God's boundless grace to us? — Haddon W. Robinson
Christ paid the debt our sin incurred;
He died to set us free;
So let us now give back to Him
With generosity. --Sper
When you think about giving to others, think about all God has given to you.