During this time of Halloween, we see lots of masks. Little ones and not-so-little ones, including adults, dress up to be someone they are not. It may be a favorite superhero or TV character or even a traditional witch or ghost costume that captures our imagination. For others, a chance to display our inner creativity allows us to transform ourselves for a short while. The story of Zacchaeus in this week’s Gospel is all too familiar. Zacchaeus, wanting to see Jesus better, climbed a tree to see over the crowds. Jesus called to him and told him to get down. Jesus was going to hang out at Zacchaeus’ house that day. Zacchaeus was a tax collector and a very wealthy man. Being so moved by Jesus and His teaching, Zacchaeus gave away half his possessions to the poor. Jesus saw through the masks that Zacchaeus wore. Jesus took off the mask of physical stature and still called Zacchaeus by name. Jesus took off the mask worn by a tax collector and asked to stay at his house. Jesus took off the mask of the misperceptions presented by other people and offered salvation. If Jesus can do all of this for Zacchaeus, imagine what he can do for you. Jesus looks through the mask of our physical insecurities to see us- not the people we think others need to see. Jesus looks through the masks of our past history to offer forgiveness and salvation. Jesus looks through the masks of our daily actions and still offers His love. We can do amazing things once we remove our own masks and clear our vision to see others through their own. Like Zacchaeus, we can share our resources to help those in need and make this world a better place. Jesus can unmask our hearts so that we are ready to receive the grace He offers. After the candy has been given out, the scary decorations put away and the costumes hung back up in the closet, we begin to look forward to this next season of ‘Thanks’. Be grateful. Be Kind. Help another person remove their masks and, in the process, you may just get rid of your own. Peace.