July 3, 2018

Gospel: Jn 20:24-29
Thomas, the Twin, one of the Twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. The other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he replied, “Until I have seen in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe.” Eight days later, the disciples were again inside the house and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said, “Peace be with you!” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and see my hands; stretch out your hand, and put it into my side. Do not continue in your unbelief, but believe!” Thomas said, “You are my Lord and my God.” Jesus replied, “You believe because you see me, don’t you? Happy are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.”

Reflections
Happy are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe It was not only Thomas who doubted the reports that Jesus had risen from the dead. The other disciples earlier refused to believe Mary Magdalene’s account of seeing the Risen Lord. The Jews till today believe in the universal resurrection of the dead at the End Time; hence, the disciples, having no notion of the individual resurrection, could not believe Jesus had risen — until he appeared to them. Though not witnesses of the Risen Lord, blessed are those who believe that suffering, injustice or death do not have the last word. Blessed those who believe that Eternal Love will prevail.

© Copyright Bible Diary 2018