When Mercy Abounds

N.T.#626 "When Mercy Abounds"

 Sept. 3, 2025 

Luke 19-Part 2 

LET IT GLOW

When we surrendered to the ministry, we have not the faintest idea of the lessons, experiences, and blessings which were ahead of us. That was 45 years ago. We would not exchange it for the world. Hurts were healed, problems were solved. provisions were received, and strength to carry on sharing God's Word and salvation was abounding. Love never fails.

Zacchaeus simply wanted to get a glimpse at this man called Jesus. That would have been enough for the tax collector. However, the crowd prevented it. So what did Zac do, he climbed a tree. He probably wasn't spotted by anyone, so he thought. But Jesus stopped, turned, and looked up directly at Zac. Then He spoke to this despised man in a tree. Thus began a special time with Jesus that radically changed his life.

Does Jesus relate to you in ways that are unique to you? He knows our past and what we will face in the future. Since He knows all about us, Jesus' word to you and me will perfectly fit our circumstances. God will personalize His word to us. (Henry Blackaby)

This short man was standing taller than ever before in his life-Jesus visited this sinner, who repented, and had a change of heart that day. The evidence is clear since he offered to give half of his possessions to the poor, and repay anyone he had defrauded 4 times what was taken. A notorious tax collector promised to make things right. He cast it all aside to be a follower of Jesus.

Is there anyone to whom we need to make things right, if we knew we were dying tomorrow?

I will never forget the day my brother apologized to me, my husband, and son for the wrongs he had done to us in past years. He died 5 days later. Cancer took his life, which he battled several years. Tears dropped onto his frail body as I bent down to kiss him. (I had some apologizing to do, too. I had not turned the other cheek enough, showing him love.) Now he is in heaven with our parents, his wife, and Jesus, who gave His life so we can enjoy eternal life forever. 

LET IT GROW

The things that are impossible with people are possible with God. (18:27)

Jesus came to seek and to save that which was lost. (verse 10)

So far we studied about a rich, young ruler who couldn't give up everything to come to Jesus by faith. He loved money more than God. Then there was the blind beggar who had nothing to give, except himself, followed Jesus with praises to God. Mercy abounded. Finally, a short man which no one carried about, was noticed by the Savior, had had a change of heart.

Which person are you alike? 

LET IT GO

Anything you need to let go so you can follow Jesus?

Have you exchanged your will for His will to accomplish?

God can do exceedingly abundantly above all we think or ask.

Let His plans transcend our wishes.

What a glorious adventure you two will have!

What a God we serve!