Zacchaeus in Luke 19:1–10 reveals the Lenten journey from surface-level imitation—"fitting in"—to real, inner belonging with Christ. As Great Lent approaches, Zacchaeus asks us: Are we, like people snapping selfies to appear close to someone, trying to show superficial nearness to Christ, or are we moving toward truly welcoming Him into our hearts, where He can dwell?

Zacchaeus first demonstrates empty fitting in adapting to fit the role of Jericho's chief tax collector. Though he gains wealth supported by the Romans, he loses his real connection to his community, which sees him as a sinner and betrayer. Here, 'fitting' means adopting behaviors for survival that look like belonging but are disconnected from genuine relationship and covenant identity, a false, surface-level sense of being accepted.

Today's spiritual "selfies" refer to religious acts performed mainly for show, such as posing with icons, live-streaming church services to be seen, or arranging eye-catching pilgrimage photos. These are like trying to display faith for others without really deepening one's inner spiritual connection.

• We orbit Christ only on the surface when we blend into the crowd, partaking in external actions but without any true change of heart or inner transformation.
• Fitting in is about performing for others, presenting a polished exterior, or taking pictures, while ignoring the deeper longings and needs of the soul.

Lent shatters illusions. Fasting strips away the desire for surface snapshots, prayer inspires us to climb above pretense, and almsgiving opens our hands, preparing not a selfie, but a welcoming hearth.

Zacchaeus wants to see Jesus, so he runs ahead and climbs a sycamore tree. He gives up his dignity because he is desperate. Now, he is not just an official but shows his smallness above the crowd.

This climb is not only Zacchaeus' physical act but represents Lent's deeper invitation: to rise above surface actions—like religious "selfies" and public displays of faith—and to risk the openness and vulnerability of the sycamore tree, seeking an authentic encounter with Christ.

• Selfies capture only appearances for a brief moment; climbing a tree, as Zacchaeus did, means letting go of self-image and risking exposure to grow and be truly changed.
• From branches, he glimpses not spectacle but seeking Savior.

Christ calls: “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for today I must stay at your house” (Luke 19:5). Zacchaeus is named and invited. He receives a close, undeserved welcome. St. John Chrysostom says, “The Lord does not wait for us to be righteous before calling us, but calls the sinner to make him righteous,” echoing old teachings on God’s love.

"Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham" (Luke 19:9). Family is brought back together. Zacchaeus gives half to the poor and returns four times what he took. He doesn’t do this to earn inclusion, but because he is already included.

Lent invites us: Trade displays of piety designed to impress others for true repentance, a real, inner change, and feast with Christ.

• Trying to fit in separates us out of fear of being left out; true belonging, which means self-giving as in kenosis, brings freedom and acceptance.
• Selfies present only a curated, controlled version of our lives, while Christ enters and consecrates our unfiltered, messy reality, bringing true meaning.

St. Porphyrios of Kafsokalivia says, “We are not meant to fit into others’ molds. Our goal is union with God through love. True belonging heals all separation.” So, our fasting prepares our inner home, removing what is not needed, welcoming others, and making our hearts a real house for God.

As Lent approaches, think about your own sycamore tree, the place where you are willing to be seen in your searching and longing, rather than simply going along with popular but empty religious expressions like flashy online services. Christ seeks those who are lost, as shown by the words: “The Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost” (Luke 19:10).

Descend, let Him dwell. in your heart’s concealed rooms—wounds, wants, wanderings—belonging starts. No edits required; His look unveils glory. No applause needed; His presence suffices.

Choose to take a place at Christ's table—in relationship and humility—instead of climbing higher to be seen by others. Seek a deep communion with Him, not just moments staged for display. Being part of this table leads to the real transformation that Pascha brings, something no image or outward act can capture. This Lent belong to be found, be filled, be sent in the name of mercy.