READINGS
1st Reading: Ephesians 2:19-22: In Christ, you are no longer aliens, but citizens like us.
Resp. Psalm: 116(117):1-2: Go out into the whole world and proclaim the good news.
Gospel: John 20:24-29: ‘My Lord and my God’
REFLECTION
Today we celebrate the feast of St. Thomas, the Apostle who is also called Didymus. He is quite a unique apostle because he is known for his famous doubt about the Risen Lord’s appearance. The phrase ‘Doubting Thomas’ emerged from the apparition of Jesus to his disciples as seen in today’s gospel. He was unfortunate not to be in first appearance of Risen Lord and as he was being told of it, he doubted until Christ appeared again and showed him the marks of his Crucifixion. In other words, Christ called him to participate in this mystery of his resurrection just as he calls us to an active participation in his mystery at Mass daily. Doubt no longer but believe.
After Thomas touched the marks of Christ’s body, Thomas doubted no longer but had a deeper faith and He expressed that faith with the most profound and evergreen proclamation of faith in the divinity of Christ ‘My Lord and My God.’. John 20:28. He no longer doubted but believed. At first, Thomas the Twin, represents all those who are full of doubt about Risen Christ, those who have fears, those who are hopeless and those who believe that seeing his believing, but after his encounter with the risen Lord, Saint Thomas stands out and represents all those who proclaim Christ Jesus as their Lord and God and all those who believe in the power of his saving death and Resurrection.
Through the eyes of faith, we can see Jesus Christ in the Sacraments, in the Sacred Scriptures, in His Church and among believers. We need to have faith strong enough beyond anything the world will offer us. It is through the eyes of faith, that we can see Jesus in any situation that we find ourselves. With our eyes of faith, we see his hands at work making sure that everything is working for our good. Whether at home or in distant land, we are Heavenly citizens and our faith is very important to God. He wants to travel with us along the way for He is The WAY. It is up to you. What will you choose? Doubt or Faith?
Happy are those who have not seen and yet believe
St. Thomas, pray for us. Amen.
Fr. Osho OSJ
