By Charles Igwe
Pope Francis has reaffirmed that Jesus continually seeks out those who feel lost or without hope, emphasizing that no one is beyond redemption. In his catechesis titled “Jesus Christ Our Hope,” released by the Vatican on April 2, the Holy Father reflected on the Gospel account of Zacchaeus, a tax collector often despised by society, yet chosen by Jesus for a personal encounter.
Describing Zacchaeus as a man who seemed “irredeemably lost,” Pope Francis shared that this story holds a special place in his own spiritual journey. He acknowledged that many people, at times, experience similar feelings of hopelessness but reminded them that, just as in Zacchaeus’ case, “the Lord was already looking” for them before they even realized it.
The Pope noted that despite personal limitations, struggles, or difficult circumstances, Jesus continues to seek out those who desire to know Him. He praised Zacchaeus’ determination, highlighting how the man climbed a tree just to catch a glimpse of Jesus. “When you have a strong desire, you do not lose heart. You find a solution,” the Holy Father remarked.
Yet, Pope Francis stressed that it is Jesus who takes the first step in reaching out. Despite Zacchaeus’ reputation as a chief tax collector working for the Roman authorities and being scorned by his fellow citizens, Jesus did not reject him. Instead, he directly addressed him and said, “Today I must stay at your house!” (Lk 19:5).
“God does not pass by without looking for those who are lost,” Pope Francis wrote, underscoring Jesus’ initiative in seeking out those in need of mercy.
Reflecting on Zacchaeus’ reaction to Jesus’ acceptance, the Pope described it as “the joy of one who feels that he has been seen, acknowledged, and above all, forgiven.” This encounter, he said, inspired Zacchaeus to transform his life, leading him to repay those he had wronged and embrace a new way of living.
“He gets up to make a commitment: to return four times what he has stolen,” Pope Francis noted. “He does so because he understands that this is his way of loving.”
Concluding his message, the Holy Father urged everyone to take practical steps toward welcoming Jesus and his forgiveness into their lives. “Let us allow ourselves to be found by the mercy of God, who always comes in search of us, in whatever situation we may be lost,” he said.
