ST THOMAS, AP. (Feast) Red

Thomas was probably born in Galilee, but there is no record as to how he became one of the Twelve Apostles of Christ. His name in Greek is Didymus, which means “the twin.” He is best remembered for his doubt about Christ’s resurrection. Thomas evangelized the Parthians, Medes, and Persians. He ultimately reached India, carrying the faith to the Malabar Coast, which still boasts a large population that calls themselves “Christians of Saint Thomas.” He was speared to death at Calamine. Thomas is the patron of architects. 

First Reading: Eph 2:19-22; Psalm: 117. R. v. Mk 16:15; Gospel: Jn 20:24-29

THE DOUBT OF THOMAS

BY FR VALENTINE NNAMDI EGBUONU, MSP

Thomas was one of the twelve famously known for his doubt regarding the Lord’s resurrection. But perhaps we may be less judgmental of him if we could read his mind to ascertain why exactly he acted the way he did. Did Thomas doubt because he felt excluded from the Lord’s appearing and wanted to be granted the privilege of seeing the Risen Lord? Or was his doubt some kind of a search for certainty and conviction? Could it also be possible that Thomas’ doubt was a complete act of unbelief in the possibility of the Lord’s resurrection? Why really did Thomas doubt?

When Jesus appeared again eight days later, Thomas was there with the rest of the disciples. What Jesus did this time around seemed to say he came purposely for Thomas to behold him. And not only that, but also for Thomas to touch him to be certain and believe that he had truly risen. When Jesus invited Thomas to do this, he said to him; “do not be faithless, but believing.” And Thomas answered, “My Lord and my God!”    

An enquiry into why exactly Thomas doubted may not be easy to decipher. But one beautiful thing we saw from his encounter was that the Lord was not so angry with him that he had to kick him out for doubting. The Lord rather gave him a gentle rebuke. We all may have doubted or are still doubting one teaching or the other about our faith. We shouldn’t be so scared about this. Doubt does not always imply unbelief. Sometimes it could be a motivation towards search for truth and conviction. And this is why we should be attentive and open to the direction of the Spirit who only can lead us into all truth. For the Spirit will always rebuke our rigidity to the truth.      

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Risen Lord, we believe; help our unbelief. Amen.