The NIV 365 Day Devotional

What can I learn from Jesus about sharing my faith?

When Jesus walked through the crowds in Jericho, he saw Zacchaeus in a tree. Imagine the details that Jesus probably noticed. He no doubt observed that Zacchaeus was perched up high for a better view, not caring how ridiculous he looked. The tree climbing told Jesus about the Zacchaeus’s inner desire —his interest in knowing more about Jesus.

With that information, Jesus’ next move was to invite himself over to Zacchaeus’s house for dinner. And that very day Zacchaeus started a new life with Jesus (vv. 8 –10).

Pay close attention when you’re interacting with others, and you may make the same sort of life-changing connections. When you watch people, imagine what they’re feeling and thinking. You’ll be surprised at how much you can connect with a person when you focus on finding out what’s going on below the surface. This in turn will help you identify opportunities to discuss your faith in a way that is meaningful to them. Chances are good that somebody’s hanging around like Zacchaeus, hoping you’ll look their way.

Taken from the NIV Quest Study Bible for Teens.