human
I should like to meet Him face to face, and yet dare not venture to go to Him. For I have a bad reputation as a publican, and am not in any way worthy. Then He is always accompanied by so many people, and I am short and cannot see over their heads. When Jesus approached, the man climbed a bare sycamore-tree and peeped between the branches. Jesus saw him, and called out;
gpt
Zacchaeus, come down from the tree! I will come and visit you to-day.
human
Lord, I am not worthy that you should go to my house. Only say one word to me, and I shall be content.
gpt
These things are good. But I want the most precious thing you possess.
human
What is that, sir? asked Zacchaeus in terror, for he thought he had given of his best.
gpt
Everything I possess is yours.
human
Zacchaeus, give me your heart!
gpt
It is remarkable how we do not reflect on the most important things because they are so clear; and yet if we do reflect on them by any chance, we don't understand them. So that I really do not know who it is I should love as myself.
human
Your neighbour!
gpt
That is all right, my friend, if only I knew who was my neighbour! I run up against all sorts of people in the day, and if one of them trips me up, he is my neighbour for the time being. At this moment I have two neighbours, you and Zachariah. Which of the two am I to love as myself? It is only stated that you shall love one. And if it's you or Zachariah, why should I love either of you more than the Master who sits at the other end of the table and is not my neighbour!
human
Man! that is an impertinent speech,
gpt
Well then, put me right!