Monday Thought -- December 1, 2014

Good Morning Friends,

After His resurrection, Jesus appeared to a number of His followers, including all of the apostles at one time. That is, all except Thomas. For some reason Thomas was absent at the time of Jesus’ appearance. Thomas couldn’t believe what the others told him. To believe it, he had to see Jesus for himself. Jesus accommodated Thomas.

“Now Thomas (called Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, ‘We have seen the Lord!’ But he said to them, ‘Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it.’ A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you!’ Then he said to Thomas, ‘Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.’ Thomas said to him, ‘My Lord and my God!’” (John 20:24-28)

I’m thankful for Thomas. I’m thankful that the resurrection can stand the test of doubts. The resurrection isn’t just a story passed from one follower of Jesus to another and believed without proof. Thomas asked for proof, and Jesus provided it.

I’m thankful for Thomas. I’m thankful that Thomas wanted physical proof. The resurrection isn’t just an hallucination or the appearance of a ghost. Thomas asked to be able to touch Jesus, and Jesus provided that opportunity. The resurrected body of Jesus was real.

I’m thankful for Thomas. I’m thankful for the clear conclusion to which this doubter came. When Jesus provided the proof that Thomas asked for, Thomas responded: “My Lord and my God.” The doubts disappeared and Thomas embraced the resurrection. His was an honest doubt and once satisfied, he responded to Jesus.

I’m thankful for Thomas. I’m thankful because sometimes I have doubts and sometimes others around me do too. Thomas teaches me that God can handle doubts. Thomas teaches me that there are answers to the doubts people have. Thomas teaches that honest doubts can be overcome.

I’m thankful for Thomas.

His, by Grace,

Steve