A Lenten Icon

You can read the story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19 (1-10). And this month I have pictured an Orthodox Icon of Jesus' meeting with him.

In the Orthodox tradition, icons are not intended to be realistic paintings of people and events, but rather are symbolic representations; every element and detail in the icon, from colour choice, to hand position, to the placement and size of secondary figures, has a deeply symbolic meaning!

According to tradition, Zaccheus was eventually appointed Bishop of Ceasarea in Palestine. He served the Lord faithfully and died in peace. This icon is one used by the Orthodox churches during Lent.

An Orthodox prayer says this: Thou didst treasure the wealth of salvation and hate unjust gains, O blessed Zacchaeus. When the Saviour came to thy house thou didst bring forth the fruits of repentance: the righting of wrongs, protection of the poor, and a new, God-pleasing life. Zacchaeus' life serves as an example of what is possible through repentance.

It also serves as a caution against judging others: the crowd saw a short, devious tax collector, but Jesus looked up and saw a faithful Apostle and Bishop for his Church.

I wonder what Jesus sees in me, and in you?