I love Zacchaeus, because he has something that all of us can relate to he is a small man, so you can only imagine he felt something to prove. What he doesn't have in stature he can make up in his powerful occupation. Tax collectors a despised occupation (I think we can relate - IRS, anyone?). These tax collectors could pad their own pockets by asking - or more accurately - demanding more than what was owed to cover their own expenses. We know Zacchaeus had done so, because he admitted as much in verse 8.

The Lord saw more than a small man, but a mighty soul willing and able to change. Just like he looks beyond our outside looks or occupation, but sees the potential inside. Zacchaeus once changed was willing to give up the money he'd taken and the Lord acknowledged this with embracing his salvation. It's amazing how our hearts are tied into our pocket books and willingness to freely give. You can't help but want to just love Zacchaeus like Christ did, because he heard the message and responded. It was an exciting day indeed!!!