The first time Jesus appeared to the disciples, Thomas was not with them. The others tried to convince Thomas that Jesus was indeed alive, but he was not ready to accept such news. The same fear and doubt that seized the others had taken hold of Thomas as well. He would not accept that Jesus was alive. He would not open himself up to the possibility. Thomas would not open the locked doors of his heart and soul because such news was too good to be true.
Then, just as he did for the others, Jesus made his presence known to Thomas. He showed Thomas his hands, showed him the wound in his side. “Thomas, see, touch, believe.” Not only did he believe, Thomas was the first to proclaim Jesus both “Lord and God.” Fear seemed to leave him. Doubt was overcome by faith. For Thomas, being present made all the difference.
When the truth of the resurrected Jesus is known, when fear is overcome by the peace of Christ, when doubt is overcome by faith, God’s people cannot help but make this same confession. In order for these to take place, one simply needs to be in the presence of the risen Christ. Through scripture, prayer and fellowship among the faithful, Christ makes his presence known. Do not doubt, only believe.
Prayer: Dearest Jesus, thank you for your grace, and for blessing me with faith to proclaim you as my Lord and my God. Amen.
In the Beginning 