Ascension : Church News
Submitted by The Islander (Clive & Jenny Duncan) 15.04.2010 (Article Archived on 29.04.2010)

It is easy to blame Thomas for doubting as we also often demand to see for ourselves before we believe.

 JOHN 20: 24-29

It is easy to blame Thomas for doubting as we also often demand to see for ourselves before we believe. 

After the resurrection, Thomas was absent when the Risen Lord appeared and showed the disciples his hands and his side. He was not impressed with the news when he came back as it seemed too good to be true.  He would not be convinced without proof.  “Unless I see the holes that the nails made in his hands and can put my finger into the holes they made and unless I can put my hand into his side, I refuse to believe.”

When Jesus came back eight days later he repeated Thomas’s words and fulfilled his request to the letter.  “Put your finger here, look here are my hands.  Give me your hand; put it into my side.  Doubt no longer, but believe.” His doubts and fears had now been dispelled and was more than ready and willing to fall on his knees and to say “My Lord and my God”. 

What we can admire about Thomas is that he made no attempt to hide his doubts; he did not pretend that all was well when it wasn’t.  He is a good example to follow.

Have a pleasant week.

Canon Clive.

Readings for this Sunday                  Acts 5: 27b-32, 40b-41                                Revelation 5: 11-14                               John 21: 1-19