St. Thomas

Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with the other disciples when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord." But he said to them, "Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe."

A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you." Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe." Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!" Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe." John 20:24-29


There are many reasons why people doubt. We humans are especially prone to doubting positive outcomes after a long season of disappointments. Some of us doubt we will have everything done before Christmas. Others doubt whether Christmas will ever come for them. Those who have been left out and excluded doubt even when they are welcomed and included.

Today we celebrate the feast of St. Thomas. Although we refer to him as doubting, Thomas represents us all, our humanity in our most honest state. How can this be we ask? How can we be loved when we are such disasters, such fools etc? We find doubt a safe rebuff for the blessings that God is sending our way. We are encouraged on this feat day to welcome God's
love with open arms and with joyous hearts, no matter how inadequate and incomplete we may feel. God is moving around us and with us today, blessing us beyond measure.

Today, I ask God to take away all doubt. May we believe with firm conviction that we are loved and wanted, beloved children showered with blessings by God. May we live today secure in the knowledge that we are desired and welcomed in the arms of God and cradled despite all the challenges of today's violent world. And may we stretch out our arms in love, sharing God's love with our neighbors today.


The Collect

Everliving God, who strengthened your apostle Thomas with firm and certain faith in your Son's resurrection: Grant us so perfectly and without doubt to believe in Jesus Christ, our Lord and our God, that our faith may never be found wanting in your sight; through him who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.