Many people have been unbelievers at some time or another. It's not unusual not to believe. Consequently, Jesus did not indicate any disappointment with Thomas for his lack of faith. Likewise, Jesus is not upset with any of us for our lack of faith.
Jesus is, however, very concerned about our persisting in unbelief. If you, like Thomas, don't believe in the Resurrection, fine. To stay that way, however, is a sin because Jesus is going to great lengths to make a believer out of you. He may tell you to "take your finger and examine" His hands or "put your hand" into His side (Jn 20:27). He may open the door to faith (see Acts 14:27) in another way. In some way, Jesus is giving you the gift of faith, and He expects you to accept it.
Jesus expects us to say with Thomas: "My Lord and my God!" (Jn 20:28) We have no excuse for not eventually having faith in Jesus (see Rm 1:20). We can at least pray: Lord, "increase our faith" (Lk 17:5) or "I do believe! Help my lack of trust!" (Mk 9:24) Doubt must give way to faith.
| PRAYER: | Father, give me "great faith" (see Mt 15:28). |
| PROMISE: | "You form a building which rises on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the Capstone." –Eph 2:20 |
| PRAISE: | St. Thomas' cry of faith has echoed through the years and ministered to countless people. Praise You, risen Jesus, "my Lord and my God!" |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College