THOMAS SUNDAY
ON THIS SUNDAY, April 19, our Church observes the celebration of Thomas Sunday, the remembrance of the risen Lord’s appearance to St. Thomas the Apostle.
Following the crucifixion and burial of Jesus, the disciples were gathered in a room with the doors closed and locked for fear of the Jews. On the evening of the Sunday after Passover, Jesus entered the room and stood in their midst, greeting them with the words, “Peace be with you.” He showed the disciples His hands, feet, and side.
Thomas was not present with the disciples when Jesus appeared, and he did not accept the testimony of the other disciples concerning the resurrection of Jesus. He stated, “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.”
Eight days later, the disciples were gathered together again with Thomas present, and the Lord appeared to them. Standing in their midst He said, “Peace be with you.” He then spoke directly to Thomas and said, “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, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus replied by saying, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.”
Many times we might ask; “How could Thomas doubt in the resurrection of Jesus? He lived with Jesus. He witnessed the many miracles that Jesus performed. He heard Jesus Himself say that He would die and rise.
As we reflect upon these events and Thomas’ response, we may ask ourselves:
- How have I encountered Jesus in my life?
- When have my doubts and fears prevented me from recognizing God’s grace and mercy? Who or what strengthened my faith in those times?
- How am I being called to share in the Apostles’ mission of proclaiming the good news of the Resurrection to others?
