The story of Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10) sets the perfect stage for the triumphal entry into Jerusalem (Luke 19:28-44). This is the profound moment where we learn the importance of recognizing and responding to God’s appointed time of visitation.
The Prophetic Call and Your Covering
Jesus, fulfilling prophecy (Zechariah 9:9), sent two disciples to retrieve a colt on which no one had ever sat. This colt, unburdened by religion, represents a generation ready for service. The disciples were told to say, “The Lord has need of it.” if asked why they were taking the colt (Luke 19:31).
When the disciples returned with the colt, they laid their own clothes on the colt and the road, which was an act of submission, worship, and reverence, and set Jesus upon it. This is vital: You must be covered to carry the Lord’s presence. The covering (spiritual leaders) is necessary before the Lord can sit upon you and use you for His Kingdom purposes. Your covering is a visitation in itself!
Your Posture Dictates Your Portion
As Jesus rode, the entire multitude of disciples rejoiced and praised God, proclaiming, “Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord!” (Luke 19:38). Their praise revealed they recognized the moment.
The Pharisees, however, missed it completely, demanding that Jesus rebuke His disciples. They were so stuck in their religion that they failed to recognize the fulfillment of prophecy right in front of them. Jesus warned them, “If these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out.” (Luke 19:40).
The text clearly shows two ways people responded to the Lord’s visitation:
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Those Who Recognized the Moment: Zacchaeus showed urgency and repositioning. The Disciples showed rejoicing, praise, submission, and humility.
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Those Who Missed the Moment: The Crowd was filled with criticism and unbelief. The Pharisees and Citizens responded with scorn, religion, and hatred.
The contrast is clear: your posture dictates your portion.
The Danger of Missing Your Day
As Jesus drew near the city, He wept over it (Luke 19:41). He was heartbroken, saying, “If you had known, even you, especially in this your day, the things that make for your peace!” (Luke 19:42).
Your visitation is a Kairos moment, God’s appointed time of divine intervention, inspection, and opportunity for blessing or advancement.
We cannot afford to let anything or anyone cause us to miss our moment. Just as Zacchaeus had to do something uncharacteristic and reposition himself (climbing the tree), we must be willing to change and be flexible to grab hold of what God has set aside for us.
Don’t miss the day of your visitation! Don’t let your assigned moment pass by and later realize you missed out on God’s intended blessing. Get into position!