Today in Baltimore the US Bishops are having a debate about the worthy reception of the Eucharist. The story of Jesus’ encounter with Zacchaeus suggests that the discussion should not center around who to exclude but rather how to include everyone. Then as now there are people who look on others as unworthy, unfit, beyond redemption. The Catholic tradition is that “all are welcome.” The Irish writer, James Joyce, said that Catholicism means “here comes everybody.” As St. Luke reports the scene Jesus said to Zacchaeus: “Come down quickly, for today I must stay at your house.” Must, it is necessary for Jesus to reach out and include those who feel left out or marginated. Can the Church of the day do no less?
