When was the last time you did the utmost for His Highest? - Daily Reflections November 18,2014

UTMOST FOR HIS HIGHEST!

 

The trip to Jericho is still true for today’s tourists and pilgrims in the Holy Land. One feature of that trip is the sight of an old, big sycamore tree.

       Zacchaeus was a small man, but he had huge assets as a chief tax collector. But more than this, Zacchaeus sure knew how to add more than just a few inches to his low stature. He clambered up one of those trees to catch a glimpse of the Lord who was passing by.

       Those of you who have been there would know that it is not easy to climb up a tree with such a massive trunk. Presumably, Zacchaeus was able to do so with a little help from friends. After all, what were a few shekels for, if they could buy you a willing shoulder or two to step on as you move up higher, literally heads and shoulders above the rest of the crowds?

       But I do not intend to bash Zacchaeus today. In fact, I intend to honor him and offer him as an example for you and me. At the very least, Zacchaeus was a man who looked actively for the Lord and did everything to achieve his dream. I really couldn’t care less how he did it, whom he used, and whose shoulders he turned into a makeshift stirrup.

       But I do admire the man’s curiosity and deep interest to see the Lord, even from a distance. His desire was laudable, and his commitment and dedication to do whatever it took to catch a glimpse of the Lord even commendable.

       We all have pious thoughts and desires. We come up with resolutions each time we celebrate Holy Week or Christmas, or even New Year. But often we lack resolve. Resolutions go the way of most political promises during campaign periods. We lose sight of them and we end up exactly the way we were.

       We should give credit to Zacchaeus for showing an efficacious desire that was translated into concrete actions. He did all he could and used whatever he had just to see the Lord. Fr. Chito Dimaranan, SDB

 

REFLECTION QUESTION: When was the last time you did the utmost for His Highest?

 

Grant me a resolute heart, O Lord, to do my best to live as a real Christian every day.