The Seeking Savior

To accurately interpret this passage, it helps to begin at the end. Luke 19:10 is the key verse for the entire Gospel of Luke, but it is also an apt description of what just took place in this encounter between Jesus and Zacchaeus. While Zacchaeus is certainly eager to see Jesus, Luke makes it clear that ultimately it is Jesus who is seeking (and saving) the lost. Indeed, that is the summary of why the Son of Man came: to seek and to save the lost.