Today's Reading: Old Testament: Leviticus 9 - 11
New Testament: John 20
Focus Verses: John 19:24-28
24Now Thomas (called Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. 25So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord!" But he said to them, "Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it."
26A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!" 27Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe." 28Thomas said to him, "My Lord and my God!"
Insight:
When the disciples told Thomas that they had seen Jesus, he found it difficult to be. Maybe they had seen someone or something else. He would have to see it for himself. He would have to hear his voice, see his face, and see the evidence of his crucifixion. When he sees Jesus, he is so sure it is true he says, "My Lord and My God!" This expression of praise and worship is even more meaningful to me knowing that it came from someone who found it difficult to believe. It's also worth noting that Jesus accepts Thomas's acclamation. If Jesus were not Lord and God, why would he allow Thomas to say such a thing? Jesus claim of deity and authority is implicit in his acceptance of Thomas's confession.
Response and Action:
My doubts and concerns are not too much for Jesus. God will meet me in my honest doubts and help me come to the truth. Faith is not opposed to reason. Humble reason may even lead me to faith.
O God, I believe in Jesus. Increase my faith and help me to deal with honest doubts. Help me to see Jesus and, as my eyes are opened, make me quick to confess him as Lord and God. Amen.
Proverbs: 28:26
He who trusts in himself is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom is kept safe.
Resources:
God in the Dark: The Assurance of Faith Beyond a Shadow of Doubt
by Os Guinness
