When Jesus encountered Zacchaeus in Luke 19, it was a moment of grace. Zacchaeus was not a respected member of his community. He was despised because of his job. As a chief tax collector, Zacchaeus worked for the Roman government at the expense of the Jewish people. Tax collectors became rich at the expense of the poor. He had the authority to take whatever he wanted. No doubt he was hated by most.

 Jesus however, was known to be a friend of tax collectors and sinners. Grace is treating people better than they deserve. This is how Jesus treated Zacchaeus. Those watching did not approve. But Jesus loved Zacchaeus regardless. Because of Jesus, Zacchaeus became a new person. Zacchaeus did not change his ways in order to be saved. His actions simply revealed a genuine encounter with the grace of God. That's the power of grace.