Dear conqueror in Christ:
What a wonderful opportunity to urge you to live a life anchored on determination. It is the ability to persist in the face of difficulties and setbacks and to keep working toward a desired outcome. According to Vince Lombardi, “The difference between a successful person and others, is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but a lack of will.” I am particularly impressed by the determination and will of Zaccheus, a notable biblical character, who, out of curiosity, wanted to see Jesus. As the Lord passed through Jericho for a last time, Zaccheus,, did his utmost to see him. Yet there was a major obstacle: Zaccheus was little and the crowd was large. Let’s see how he managed to succeed in his endeavor.
What we have to recognize is that God gives us enough gifts and talents to be creative in finding solution to problems. Using his sense of creativity, Zaccheus “ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way” (Luke 19:4). Now Herbert Temple wrote a hymn stating , “when you have done your best, let Jesus do the rest” that is quite relevant here. Honoring Zaccheus’ effort, Jesus stepped in and reached out, “he looked up and said to him”“Zaccheus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” (Luke 19:6) Jesus opened to Zaccheus the door of a brand new relationship which he favorably accepted: “So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly.” Luke 19::). Show also utmost determination for a closer walk with Jesus and you will enjoy immeasurable blessings.
Excelsior
Bishop Leon