Jesus called the hated little sinner down and shared a meal with him. Jesus considered him a lost soul, not an evil enemy. And through friendship with Jesus, All he wanted to do was follow the just and caring ways of God. Zaccheus was set free. His ill gotten possessions meant nothing to him anymore.
Forgiveness is real and powerful.
Forgiveness of sin brings a hope, and assurance, that we will never be separated from God again, the one who loves us and the one we love. As Jesus hung on a cross the criminal beside him simply asked to be remembered. But this Lamb of God doesn't do what we ask solely, he always does far more. Take my hand. We are walking into paradise together.