John 20:24
But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came.
Where was Thomas?
I don’t think I’ve ever heard someone ask that, but I think it’s an important question given what’s about to happen. We likely know just enough of what is coming to remember that Thomas won’t believe his comrades when they tell him that they’ve seen Jesus. Hence, he has come down to us through the centuries as “Doubting Thomas.” And because of that nickname, we believe we know Thomas, that we’ve got his number. But do we?
This is why it matters where he is.
Is he distraught and still dealing with overwhelming grief? Has he chosen to hide somewhere else, unable to endure companionship when pierced with such grief and fear? Or is he, instead, already out and about rebuilding his life? Is he making plans for what will come next, now that his hopes and dreams had been crushed?
Keep in mind that the rest of the disciples are hiding behind locked doors for fear. But Thomas is not there. So where is he?
Prayer: Dear God, whenever we read Scripture, let us be open to being surprised by the testimony of earlier believers and inspired to lives of faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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