Financial Discipleship – the Bible on RestitutionSample

In Luke 19, Zacchaeus’ story is so simple yet profound.

Not only does Zacchaeus meet Jesus, but he becomes immediately convicted to right the wrongs he’d committed against others.

Not only does Jesus recognize Zacchaeus, He also publicly acknowledges him.

Not only does Zacchaeus get to spend time with Jesus at his house, but he also receives salvation for his actions.

As I reflect on Zacchaeus’ story, I realize I’m not much different from him.

We had two different paths. Zacchaeus a tax collector; me a writer. But we both were searching for something: Someone Who could make our crooked paths straight. Someone Who could make us better. Someone who could heal our hearts in ways we never thought were possible. Someone who could help us see the areas in our lives that required restitution.

Because of Jesus, restitution is more than just repaying what you owe someone you’ve wronged. And it goes beyond just adding more on top of it.

Because of Jesus, restitution is an act that restores the one you’ve wronged, and even more so the one who was wrong.

Jesus showed such mercy and grace. It’s amazing, and my heart wells with emotion reflecting on it.

Our God is so good. He loves us so much, that He sees us at eye level and is willing to meet us where we are to appeal to our heart; no strings attached.

In Luke 19:5, Jesus noticed Zacchaeus, and the most beautiful part about this moment is what happens next.

Before Zacchaeus even thinks to make restitution for any of his wrongs, Jesus tells him that He’s going to his house, and He welcomes him gladly.

What a GOD!

What a God we serve, that He loves us just the way we are. Before we begin to burn with a desire to reconcile, He restores our innermost parts, our every being.

As Jesus did with Zacchaeus, He will appeal to your heart and show you the areas you can make restitution. Then, you’ll gladly obey.

But what follow are the most treasurable gifts:

• Restoration for the person you’ve wronged
• The truth that God loves and accepts you—flaws and all
• Freedom in knowing that, through faith and grace, you receive salvation
• The blessing to walk in being made new

What began as Zacchaeus' simple desire to catch a glimpse of Jesus ended with him being seen, pursued, embraced, accepted, redeemed, and eternally saved by Him.

I think the story of Zacchaeus shows us the purest way to make restitution: seek Jesus first.

When we simply start by desiring to seek Jesus and feel His presence... everything changes.

With gratitude,

Melody Stampley

Content Specialist