John 20:26-29
A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe.” Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.”
Interestingly, Jesus shows Thomas what he wanted all along. No questions, just an action. Although, given Thomas’ earlier demands, perhaps with a bit of an edge.
But Thomas doesn’t need proof anymore. His old reality of death and defeat and limitations has been swept away in light of his encounter with the Risen Lord. And from this new and transformative vantage point, he makes the great confession of John’s Gospel – indeed, the New Testament! – confessing Jesus not only as his Lord, but also his God.
And then comes Jesus’ reply….
I’ll be honest, for years I felt a little bad for Thomas at this point. Because it feels like Jesus is scolding him for his lack of faith. But I wonder….
I wonder if at this point Jesus’ words are actually less directed to Thomas and more directed to us.
That’s right, us. Because here’s the thing: all those people John was writing for…? None of them got to see Jesus, and yet they believed. So I don’t think Jesus was scolding Thomas so much as he is blessing all those since – including us! – who have heard the story of Jesus and have believed.
Pretty cool!
Dear God, thank you for blessing us with the gift of faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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