“Then Jesus said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!” John 20:27-28
Can you imagine if people remembered you by your most vulnerable moment? That’s what most people do for Jesus’ friend, Thomas. After Jesus’ death, all of the apostles hide for fear that they could be next. They had heard Mary’s testimony that he had risen, but it was so audacious that they did not believe it. Even though they were in hiding, someone had to be brave and venture out from time to time. Thomas just so happened to be away from the others when Jesus appeared.
Thomas got back home and was told that Jesus had risen! He could not and would not believe it. He needed proof, to see him for himself. That is why we call him “doubting” Thomas. What we forget is that all of them doubted and needed reassurance. They were hiding for fear and thought resurrection hope was impossible. We also should remember that Jesus did not see Thomas’ doubt (or anyone else’s) as a reason to shun or shame him. Instead, he shows back up and offers Thomas what he needs in order to believe. Jesus wants Thomas to believe, so he shows him his scars.
Doubt gets a bad rep in religious circles. We think it is a barrier to building faith, the enemy of our relationship with Christ. I find that through times of doubt, God often strengthens and refines faith by the reassurance of the Holy Spirit. The story of Thomas shows us that doubt is not too much for Jesus to handle and he can bring those who doubt to a profound faith. It is Thomas after all who makes the ultimate confession of the Gospel: Jesus is “my Lord and my God.” The one we call a doubter expresses the full testimony of faith. God wants us to believe and will provide the reassurance we need.
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