The answer is: Jericho

Luke 19:1-2

Zacchaeus, a notable figure in the gospel of Luke, gives us a delightful glimpse into Jesus' life and ministry, particularly his approach to those marginalized by society. Jericho, the city where this encounter takes place, is known as one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. Its rich history is riddled with stories of both friendship and rivalry, biblical before it became biblical: it was in Jericho that Joshua led the Israelites to victory by causing the walls to come tumbling down with their trumpets and shouts (Joshua 6).

When Jesus visited Jericho amidst the glmulticultural bustle, Zacchaeus, a chief tax collector, gazes out from a sycamore tree, defying practical odds to glimpse the charismatic figure all had been buzzing about. This tree stands as a reminder of accessibility—both literal and metaphorical—in approaching divine grace. Surprisingly, Zacchaeus was ostracized by the community not just because of his profession, but for his animosity towards fellow Jews.

This encounter is momentous—Jesus calling Zacchaeus to dine with him shatters convention and highlights the core message of inclusivity. Their moment together isn’t just an isolated incident; it echoes the broader biblical theme emphasizing redemption and personal transformation. In the end, Zacchaeus wasn’t just between a rock and a hard place but found himself within the loving reach of mercy, a powerful reminder that redemption can happen anytime, anywhere—even amidst the most unlikely characters and places. The joy that followed his change of heart showcases how recognition of one’s own changes can lead others to believe in hope for renewal.