Monday 04 July 2022

Psalm 31:1-6

Background

Today the Church commemorates St Thomas, one of Jesus' disciples, who is believed to have travelled beyond the Roman Empire taking the gospel message as far as India. Today’s passage takes place after Jesus’ resurrection. Other apostles had seen Jesus, but Thomas, often known as ‘Doubting Thomas’, had not been with them, and wanted further proof that Jesus had actually risen from the dead. Thomas demanded to see Jesus’ wounds from his crucifixion: “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.” (v. 25)

Jesus is full of compassion and understanding for Thomas' struggle to comprehend something so miraculous and when a week later he appears again to the disciples, he makes himself physically available for Thomas, saying: “Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe.” (v. 27) 

Let’s focus on the profound nature of what Jesus is doing here. He is understanding our human need for proof while at the same time urging us to have faith, saying "Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe." (v. 29)

To Ponder:

• Do your doubts and fears draw you away or closer to God?
• How can you remain open to God’s love while navigating your doubts?
• How can everyone in your church participate in safe and open conversations about their doubts and fears?

 Prayer
Living God, today on the Feast of the Apostle Thomas we hold before you all our doubts and fears. Breathe in us your spirit of hope, reassurance, comfort and love.These prayers we ask in your Holy Trinity name. Amen.

[Note: The author of this week's 'A Word in Time' Bible study has asked to remain anonymous.]