Resilience in LeadershipSample

Modern Zacchauses

On one occasion, I was in the middle of a “Business Principles from the Bible” seminar, and in the midst of the seminar, a businessman stood up and started shouting, “I have been robbing God, I have been robbing God.” Everyone was perplexed at what this man was doing, since he had recently believed in Jesus and was beginning to discover more of Him through his word. In that moment, some of the teachings on managing personal and business finances, generosity, stewardship, offerings and tithes touched his heart. It does not seem that those teachings touched the other participants in the same way; it was the heart of that particular man that was especially touched.

Many people might want to see your life changed to confirm that you are a Christian. Although many expect external, cosmetic, quick and convenient changes for them, the true transformation of an entrepreneur or a professional occurs when there is a metamorphosis in his heart. Normally, internal change will show external evidence. 

Zacchaeus, a wealthy tax collector, experienced something similar when Jesus went to his home one day. The Bible states that he voluntarily said, “Behold, Lord, half of my possessions I will give to the poor, and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I will give back four times as much.” (v.8). 

Despite the bad reputation of publicans like him, Zacchaeus was shocked by the undeserved, saving, and transforming visit of Jesus. It was neither his attitudes nor his promises or overflowing emotions that proved that his heart had been transformed. Rather, it was his contrition, repentance, restitution, and generosity in action that demonstrated it. 

Although it is not a matter of copying Zacchaeus’ recipe to distribute and give money back to people as he did, today, we do need more “Zacchaeuses.” The marketplace is in need of business and professional people who yearn to meet Jesus  and act accordingly, demonstrating that their hearts have been genuinely transformed by His grace.

To reflect: A truly transformed heart will gradually and steadily show its reality.