And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him: for he was to pass that way (Luke 19:4).
Determination: firmness of purpose; resoluteness; the process of establishing something exactly by calculation or research; the controlling or deciding of something’s nature or outcome.
What are you reaching, desiring, or searching for in your life? I’m sure you were asked in high school, or upon leaving college or seminary, what your dreams, plans, and goals were for your life. I’m sure you were like I was. Everything seemed attainable, and then life, well, it happened. It wasn’t long before exits, detours, and distractions derailed us. Like most people, we have our repertoire of reasons why the successes, meetings, and opportunities escaped us.
The difference in failure and success comes down to desire, determination, purpose, and process. Zacchaus was a tax collector – strike No. 1. He was short in stature – strike No. 2. He was questionable in his integrity – strike No. 3. We would say he is out and sit him on the bench. He will never see first base let alone make it home. But he was determined to see Jesus. His desire pushed him to overcome his problem with stature, and he climbed a sycamore tree. His determination pushed him to rise above what others thought about his actions. Purpose showed up in the process when Jesus took notice of him, went to his house to eat, and said, “This day is salvation come to this house” (Luke 19:9).
What is it that you desire to reach, accomplish, entertain, develop, design, own, or be a part of? Don’t allow anything to squelch your desire, determination, or purpose. Get the process started today. Climb what you have to climb, move what you have to move, break free from what you have to break free from to have the chance to experience the opportunities you have longed for.
Our prayer for you this week: May you come to realize it is never too late to experience the opportunity of a lifetime. Jesus is waiting to take notice of you.
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