Gospel Reading – John 20: 24-29
But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them 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.”
The Gospel of the Lord
The Mass intentions is for Chandy Philip and Chinnamma, RIP
Reflection
Try to imagine yourself present in the scene the passage describes. What must Thomas be feeling? He is certainly mortified for his excessive reaction to the news that Jesus had appeared to the others when he was not there.
Yet Jesus is full of compassion as he gently invites him to touch his wounds, to believe that he is truly risen. How often do I regret my outbursts! Yet Jesus’ reaction is always one of compassionate understanding of my frailties. I ask to know how to be compassionate with others when they disappoint me.
Rather than being the doubting one, Thomas pronounces one of the most beautiful expressions of faith in the Gospel, My Lord and my God. I let these words echo in my heart, shedding light on my faith in Jesus and on my lack of it.
- How would you react, if someone told you they had seen Jesus?
- If you were to make a statement like Thomas, what might that be………………………………………………………………….