The Gospel for the Second Sunday of Easter is John 20:19-31. This selection contains two important resurrection stories. First, there is Christ's Easter evening appearance among the ten apostles (Thomas was absent). Secondly, a week later, the risen Lord comes among the eleven apostles and makes sure that Thomas gets the point. There are a number of topics in this Gospel: the reality of the Resurrection, Christ's transforming power, true peace and reconciliation with God, and the function of apostolic ministry. This time, my focus is on the example of the Apostle Thomas and its meaning during the Easter Season.
Thomas, whose name means "the twin," is one of the Twelve and is mentioned several times in the Gospels. He is probably most remembered for being absent from the group of disciples on Easter Sunday when the risen Jesus manifested Himself (John 20: 19-25). Thomas was doubtful and demanded physical proof. A week later, Thomas was present when Jesus came to the disciples. The apostle then confessed his faith in a way stronger than others because he affirmed Christ as "My Lord and my God" (John 20:28).
Thomas' example has a two-fold importance. On one hand, he reminds us that doubt can deprive us of some of the joys of faith. His refusal to believe at first means that Thomas spends a week longer without the hope and comfort of the Resurrection faith.
On the other hand, Thomas is also an example that Christ can overcome doubt and use former doubters as trustworthy witnesses. Because of his initial hesitation, Thomas becomes an even stronger witness to the physical reality of the Resurrection. Furthermore, Thomas is also a strong witness to the Incarnation and Christ's true identity since he confesses Jesus as Lord and God.
So in the context of Easter, may the example of Thomas take on a new meaning for us. Let us seek to move beyond Thomas' weakness. Let us avoid being too worldly and too focused on externals. Rather let us focus on spiritual realities. May the grace of the risen Christ open us to believing without having seen! May we believe and strongly confess that our Lord and God has risen and lives!
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