The Story of Zacchaeus - Bible Stories for Kids

The Tax Collector

In the ancient city of Jericho, there lived a man named Zacchaeus. He was a chief tax collector, which meant he collected money from the people to give to the Romans.

Zacchaeus was very wealthy, but he was not liked by the townspeople because tax collectors often took more money than they were supposed to, keeping the extra for themselves.

Despite his wealth, Zacchaeus felt lonely and unhappy. He heard stories about Jesus, a man who performed miracles and taught about God's love.

Zacchaeus wondered if Jesus could help him find true happiness.

Climbing the Sycamore Tree

One day, Zacchaeus heard that Jesus was coming to Jericho. The streets were crowded with people eager to see him. Being short in stature, Zacchaeus couldn't see over the crowd.

Determined to catch a glimpse of Jesus, he ran ahead and climbed a tall sycamore tree.

From his perch in the tree, Zacchaeus watched as Jesus approached. His heart raced with excitement and hope.

Jesus Calls Zacchaeus

As Jesus reached the sycamore tree, he looked up and saw Zacchaeus.

To everyone's surprise, Jesus called out, "Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today."

Zacchaeus was astonished but quickly climbed down and welcomed Jesus into his home.

The townspeople murmured in disapproval, wondering why Jesus would associate with a tax collector.

A Changed Man

Inside Zacchaeus' house, Jesus and Zacchaeus talked about many things. Jesus' words touched Zacchaeus' heart, and he realized the wrong he had done.

Moved by Jesus' kindness and love, Zacchaeus decided to change his ways.

He stood up and declared, "Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount."

Jesus smiled and said, "Today salvation has come to this house. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost."

A New Beginning

Zacchaeus' transformation amazed the people of Jericho. He became a generous and honest man, using his wealth to help those in need.

The townspeople saw the change in Zacchaeus and began to respect and appreciate him.

Through Zacchaeus' story, the people learned about the power of forgiveness and the possibility of a new beginning.

Zacchaeus' life was forever changed by his encounter with Jesus, and he lived joyfully, sharing God's love with everyone.

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