Zacchaeus by George MacDonald (1865)
The narrative centers on Zacchaeus, a tax collector of short stature, who seeks to see Jesus as he passes through Jericho. Unable to see over the crowd, he climbs a sycamore tree. Jesus notices him and calls him down, declaring that he will stay at Zacchaeus's house. This unexpected invitation causes murmurs among the crowd, who criticize Jesus for associating with a sinner. Zacchaeus, moved by the encounter, pledges to give half of his possessions to the poor and repay anyone he has cheated fourfold. This act of repentance and restitution signifies his transformation. Jesus responds affirmatively, proclaiming that salvation has come to Zacchaeus's house, affirming his place as a true descendant of Abraham. The story illustrates themes of redemption, the acceptance of the marginalized, and the transformative power of grace. It emphasizes that no one is beyond salvation and that true repentance leads to a change in behavior and heart. The narrative concludes with the affirmation of Jesus's mission to seek and save the lost, highlighting the joy and hope found in forgiveness and new beginnings.
By George MacDonald · First published 1865 · Genre: Religious Fiction, Poetry, Inspirational · 293 words
First lines
To whom the heavy burden clings, It yet may serve him like a staff; One day the cross will break in wings, The sinner laugh a holy laugh.
The dwarfed Zacchaeus climbed a tree, His humble stature set him high; The Lord the little man did see Who sought the great man passing by.
Up to the tree he came, and stopped: "To-day," he said, "with thee I bide. " A spirit-shaken fruit he dropped, Ripe for the Master, at his side.
Sure never host with gladder look A welcome guest home with him bore! Then rose the Satan of rebuke And loudly spake beside the door:
What this Textopian page supports
Zacchaeus is listed on Textopian as a poem by George MacDonald, dated 1865 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: George MacDonald
- Date: 1865 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Fiction, Poetry, Inspirational, Historical Fiction
- Length: 293 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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- Work identity for Zacchaeus by George MacDonald
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Zacchaeus?
- How does this poem by George MacDonald fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Religious Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Carpenter by George Macdonald
- Forgiveness by George Macdonald
- The Thorn In The Flesh by George Macdonald
- Contrition by George Macdonald
- The Woman In The Temple by George Macdonald
- The Friend Of Sinners by Charles Kingsley
Genres
- Religious Fiction — The narrative centers around a biblical story, focusing on themes of redemption and salvation.
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse form, employing poetic devices and rhythm.
- Inspirational — The story conveys a message of hope and transformation, aiming to inspire readers.
- Historical Fiction — The setting and characters are based on historical and biblical accounts.
Tags
faith · redemption · forgiveness · spirituality · transformation · self-discovery · morality · Christianity · parables · humility · grace · repentance