Grace Always Comes First

True generosity begins not with what we give, but with what we’ve received. We can only live generously to the degree we understand God’s grace toward us. Like children who know they belong, we approach God not as distant strangers but as sons and daughters with full access to our Father. In Christ, the door is already open.

Luke 19 reminds us of this through Zacchaeus. Before Zacchaeus repents, gives, or changes, Jesus seeks him, calls him by name, and invites Himself into his life. Grace initiates. God’s generosity toward us always comes first—and it is that grace which gives us a new heart.

Grace Meets Us and Transforms Us

Jesus meets Zacchaeus exactly where he is, not where he pretends to be. He brings relationship before reform, fellowship before fixing behavior. Zacchaeus’ generosity isn’t pressured or demanded—it overflows naturally from a heart that has been seen, welcomed, and restored. Grace restores relationship first, and changed behavior follows.

What once owned Zacchaeus—his wealth—becomes a tool for healing and restoration. Grace transforms possession into stewardship and loss into freedom. Generosity is no longer a burden; it becomes a testimony of what God has already done.

Grace Gives Us a New Identity

Jesus ends by declaring Zacchaeus a “son of Abraham.” Grace doesn’t just change what we give—it changes who we are. Our past is redeemed, our purpose reshaped, and our possessions reordered under Christ’s lordship.

We don’t give to earn God’s love.

We give because we already have it.

Grace came looking for us.

Grace found us.

Grace stayed with us.

And now, grace flows through us.

Where might Jesus be seeking to meet you today?

Doug Ruest