Proof

Some people require proof.

Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with the other disciples when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “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.” 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.” - John 20:24-29

Thomas was one of those people who needed evidence to be able to accept the truth.

We give Thomas a hard time, forgetting that what he was told was a bit outrageous, wasn't it?

Jesus, who he knew was dead, had come among them? Would we be so quick to accept that as truth?  

Perhaps they had had a vision, or maybe they were talking and drinking and dreamed it up.

Nothing like that has ever happened before, so why should Thomas just buy into their story?

Sure, they were serious, trying to be convincing, but it was a lot to digest.

So, we label Thomas a doubter, when we would most likely have our doubts as well. There are people today who doubt the stories of Jesus were true.

Today is the day we celebrate Thomas.  Maybe today, we should celebrate our own skepticism as well.  It is good to doubt sometimes.  It keep us from being duped.

More to come...