Open Membership.

1Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. 2A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. Luke 19:1,2

Even today there are a number of private country clubs that discriminate against women and ethnic minorities. Shoal Creek famously admitted an African American member after their practices became widely known when they were trying to host the 1990 PGA Championship. Augusta, home of the Masters, still does not accept women members. It is important for Christians to note that Jesus consistently demonstrated equal treatment for all.

In our text Zacchaeus is described as being a short, wealthy tax collector. It is well-documented how disliked tax collectors were. Publicans (tax collectors) were hated by the Jews for working on behalf of the Roman Empire, the oppressors of the Jews. They were also disliked because many times they collected extra money for themselves and in doing so became rich. We find it easy to love those who love us. We even try to love those who may be difficult but are like us. But it is very hard to love those who we know mean us harm or have shown themselves to be our enemies. Jesus went to this tax collectors house and ate with him. At some point that is not covered in scripture, Jesus had such a profound effect on Zacchaeus that he turned from his wicked ways and vowed to return back what he had taken from the people four-fold! As Christians, we must believe in the transforming power of the love of Jesus Christ. We can’t fight fire with fire but instead we must love our enemies into submission.

Pray today to be open to accept all people whatever their station in life might be, knowing that God is able to change hearts and minds.

Deacon Larry Woodard