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We've all heard or read the story of Zacchaeus. It's a cute story about a little man who has lunch with Jesus. He climbed up in the sycamore tree for the Lord he wanted to see. Right? So, that was a part of my Bible reading yesterday. I wondered about that story. It seems like Zacchaeus earns his Salvation by giving half of his stuff to the poor. However, this can't be the case because salvation can't be earned. So, what is going on then? How would I be able to share this story with someone? God knew. I got a nail in my tire and needed to take it to the tire guy down the street. We were chatting when I whispered a prayer, asking God for an opening to share spiritual thoughts. There was a slight lull in the conversation, and I said, "Where do you go to church?" That was pretty subtle. He said, "I'm Catholic. My dad was born Catholic, and I'm Catholic." A little later, I asked, "What does it mean to be Catholic?" The tire guy looked a...

Luke 17:32 is Jesus' shortest admonition. But what does it mean?  We must remember that context is key to any Bible study. The context of this short warning is talking about the coming of the kingdom. In a few short years, Jerusalem would suffer destruction. Jesus hearers would need to be ready to flee the city with no remorse or lingering yearnings. Lot had taken his family to live in the lush plain. They had become accustomed to the wicked city's lifestyle. Angels had warned that destruction was imminent and had to yank Lot and family from the house. They gave specific instructions not to look back at the firestorm from heaven. Lot's wife didn't heed the warning. She was too involved in the convenient life. Looking back at the horrible scene she suffered, the consequences and became a lasting reminder for us. How attached am I to this world? As judgment comes, will I look to Jesus' arrival or back at what I have to leave behind? My goal and gaze must be constantly...