John Calvin Commentary Luke 19:1

"And he entered and was passing through Jericho." — Luke 19:1 (ASV)

This shows how little attention Luke paid to observing the order of dates, for after detailing the miracle, he now recounts what happened in the city of Jericho. He tells us that while Christ was visible to everyone as He walked along the streets, Zaccheus alone was very eager to see Him.

It was evidence of intense desire that he climbed up a tree, since rich men are generally haughty and pride themselves on an air of solemnity. Indeed, it is possible that others had the same wish, but this man was very appropriately singled out by Luke, both because of his rank and because of his wonderful conversion, which happened suddenly.

Now, although faith was not yet formed in Zaccheus, this was still a kind of preparation for it. For it was surely through heavenly inspiration that he so earnestly desired to see Christ—I mean, concerning the purpose that soon became clear. No doubt, some were led by mere curiosity to run even from distant places to see Christ, but the outcome showed that Zaccheus's mind contained some seed of piety.

In this way, before revealing Himself to people, the Lord often instills in them a secret desire that draws them to Him while He is still hidden and unknown. And, although they may have no specific goal in mind, He does not disappoint them but reveals Himself at the proper time.