Daily Devotions for Thursday, July 17, 2025: Climbing Higher—The Grace of Making Amends

 

The Daily Devotional

Thursday, July 17, 2025

Climbing Higher—The Grace of Making Amends

Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, “Look, half of my possessions, Lord, I will give to the poor; and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I will pay back four times as much.” (Luke 19:8)

Introduction

Zacchaeus was more than a tax collector—he was a symbol of corruption and betrayal to his people. Yet when Jesus passed through Jericho, he didn’t avoid Zacchaeus. He sought him out. The small man in the tree, once driven by greed and resentment, found himself seen, called, and welcomed by the Lord. In response, Zacchaeus did something radical: he made amends.

Reflection

The story of Zacchaeus is a lesson in restoration and dignity. He had wronged many, and everyone knew it. But Jesus didn’t shame him. Instead, he invited himself into Zacchaeus’s home—and that single act of grace melted a hardened heart.

We all know what it’s like to mess up—to speak in anger, to ignore someone in need, or to let pride win. Consider a scene from everyday life: a mechanic, known for inflating repair costs, one day returns a check to a long-time customer with a note: “I overcharged you. I’m sorry. Here's what I owe you—with interest.” That one act, though small, can mend not just a relationship but a reputation.

Zacchaeus reminds us that making amends isn’t about shame. It’s about transformation. It’s the fruit of a heart touched by God.

Application

Is there someone you’ve hurt—intentionally or not—who still carries that wound? Today, take a step toward them. Write a note, make a call, or repay a debt. The point isn’t perfection—it’s humility. It’s not about fixing the past, but about showing that your heart has changed.

Zacchaeus didn’t wait to be asked. He took the initiative. That’s what a heart filled with grace does—it climbs the tree to see Jesus and then climbs back down to make things right.

Conclusion

Restoration is one of the clearest signs that Christ is at work in us. Zacchaeus's story shows us that when grace meets repentance, the result is joy—not only for the one forgiven, but for the entire community. Jesus called Zacchaeus a son of Abraham that day. Imagine the relief in hearing, “You still belong.”

Prayer

Gracious Lord, thank You for seeing me, even when I try to hide in the branches of pride or shame. Just like Zacchaeus, I want to be changed by Your love. Give me the courage to make amends, to restore what I’ve broken, and to seek peace where there has been pain. Help me walk in humility, guided not by guilt but by Your grace. And when I make things right, may others see not just me—but You at work in me. In Jesus’s name, Amen.

---

Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA

The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.