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Good morning.

Here in the heart of Edinburgh the city is always bustling with people.Ìý Even more so in this August month – it’s Festival time!Ìý There’s usually a choice to be made when you live here – embrace the buzz or hide away.Ìý For me there’s really no choice working at Greyfriars Kirk in the historic Old Town.Ìý There is a heady mix of visitors, seeking roots and culture, and enjoying all Edinburgh has to offer.

As a person of small stature, the story of Zacchaeus in Luke’s gospel always comes to mind as I try to navigate the crowds.Ìý I want to be able to see, but I’m restricted by my height!

I’ve always admired Zacchaeus’ initiative in climbing a tree to see Jesus.Ìý Rather than return home frustrated and disappointed his desire to see made him climb up high. He wanted to see for himself, and then in a wonderful ironic twist, it is Jesus who sees him – this rich tax collector – calls him down, inviting himself to stay at his home.

What was it that Jesus saw in Zacchaeus?Ìý A searching heart, an inquiring mind, a desire to change?Ìý In this encounter, Zacchaeus was transformed, giving away half of his wealth and finding himself changed, known and loved.

When we open our eyes to see, to take in all that a place, and its people have to offer, we are already opening ourselves to transformation.Ìý If we are willing to climb the proverbial tree and stretch our horizons, then we have as much to receive as we have to offer.Ìý Such is the gift of God.

Eternal One, always moving and breathing,

Always renewing and transforming.

Let your Spirit refresh our vision

This and every day.Ìý Amen

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