The Gospel of Luke presents a distinctive theme as it interprets the story of Jesus to an intellectual audience. Luke attempts to connect his writings to other ancient Greco-Roman and Jewish historical accounts from this period, offering interesting details about what really happened in the life of Jesus. A particular topic in the text is the sadness that Jesus shows towards the rich and the poor, which is presented several times throughout the gospel of Luke (Mueller 71-73). Recorded only in Luke, there is a specific story that focuses on the interaction between a sinner and Jesus, others' perceptions of that contact and communication, and the results of the relationship. The story of Zacchaeus, the tax collector, is an account of an encounter between Jesus and Zacchaeus when Jesus was passing through the city of Jericho. Jesus formed a following of spectators trying to witness the miracles performed, but Zacchaeus was too small to see him above the crowd. By climbing a sycamore tree, not only was Zacchaeus able to see Jesus, but Jesus was also able to see Zacchaeus. Jesus goes to Zacchaeus and invites himself into his home. When they meet, Zacchaeus adopts an attitude of repentance and promises to give half of his possessions to the poor in addition to repaying all those he deceived four times the amount he extorted from them. As a result, Zacchaeus is forgiven of his sins and receives salvation as a descendant of Abraham (Luke 19:1-10). The main message of the story is that Jesus is the Son of God who loves Zacchaeus no matter what he did. or who hates him. The real reason Zacchaeus couldn't see Jesus was not because he was small. The crowd probably wouldn't let him pass since he was a tax collector... middle of paper... tone of love but then Jesus comes into their lives at just the right time. Jesus came into the world to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10), which includes all who have a sincere heart and are open to receiving an invitation from Jesus. Just like Zacchaeus, regardless of circumstances, personal status, or religious background, anyone can receive salvation through the grace of Jesus Christ. Works Cited Henry, Matthew. "Commentary on Luke 19". Bible with blue letters. March 1, 1996. Web. March 6, 2011.AuthorID=4&contentID=1660&commInfo=5&topic=Luke >.Mueller, JJ SJ, et al. Theological foundations: concepts and methods for understanding the Christian faith. Winona, Minn.: Saint Mary's Press. 2007. Print. Saint Mary's Press College Study Bible: New American Bible. Winona, MN: Saint Mary's Press, 2007. Print.