Gospel John 20:24-29
Thomas, called Didymus, one of the Twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples said to him, “We have seen the Lord.” But Thomas said to them, “Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands and put my finger into the nailmarks and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” Now a week later his disciples were again inside and Thomas was with them. Jesus came, although the doors were locked, and stood in their midst and said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands, and bring your hand and put it into my side, and do not be unbelieving, but believe.” Thomas answered and said to him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to him, “Have you come to believe because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.”
Reflection When Jesus was working with his disciples, he gave them a sign, after a sign of who he was. And he wanted them to believe in him. And so when he did the most amazing thing, died and rose to save us from our sins, he appeared to the 11 without Thomas, and they saw him. And that was enough. But Thomas wasn't there, and he was incredulous.
He couldn't believe the witness of the others. So Jesus came to him, with the disciples, and let him touch the wounds. Jesus will reach those he longs to reach through whatever means they need. That's his intention to create in us that kind of conviction and faith. Please ponder this reflection and I will close with the prayer.
Closing Prayer Father, it's clear that you long for us to believe. Because when we believe in the things that are beyond our imagining, we're entering more and more into the kingdom of God. Give us patience with our imperfection of faith. And know that God will work with it and deepen it. And give us sign after sign. Help us to be aware and convinced of all that he teaches. And we ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen.