The disciples were surprised and dismayed when Jesus told them that it was “easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” (Luke 18:25) They asked; “Who then can be saved?” (Verse 26) He gave them an answer; “The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.” (Verse 27) and then demonstrated it a few days later.

Ultimately they were on their way to Jerusalem but they passed through Jericho as they went. And who happened to live there? Zacchaeus, a small man with a rich wallet gained through a hated profession by the Jews: tax collector for the Romans.

Jesus initiated communication with Zacchaeus who sat in a tree so he could better see the Lord pass by. Calling him by name, Jesus requested to stay at his house and Zacchaeus was overwhelmed with joy. Being singled out like that had a deep convicting impact on him. When he offered to make amends for his sin, Jesus responded; “Today salvation has come to his house.” (Luke 19:9)

I wonder if the disciples got the connection. Things impossible with men are possible with God. And now let’s make sure we get the connection. Do you have someone in your life that you consider a “hard case?” Impossible for God to reach? Keep praying. That may be the very next person Jesus is getting ready to call out of a tree.