The Importance of the Crucified Christ

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 13th Week -  Saturday*

*Feast of St Thomas the Apostle*

*GOSPEL - Jn 20:24–29*

*First Reading - Eph 2:19–22*

*The Importance of the Crucified Christ*

*1) Thomas was referring to Crucified Christ, even after His resurrection*

When the other disciples said that they have seen the Risen Lord, the immediate response of Thomas was about the image of Crucified Christ

He was referring to the marks of the nails and the wound in His side 

Both these events have a direct connections to the crucifixion of Jesus 

Marks of the nail and pierced Side happened during the Crucifixion 

*2) Jesus also Showed the Marks of His crucifixion*

When Jesus appeared, finally the Risen Christ shows the facts about His crucifixion

The Risen Christ was with the marks of the Crucifixion.  Marks of the nails and pierced side both these were very visible to others 

This shows how important the event of crucifixion and the image of crucified Christ

*3) Cross and Crucifix is at the centre of Christianity*

There is no Christians with out Cross and there is no Cross without Christians 

The Cross has become the the powerful symbol of Christianity. Where ever there is Cross, it speaks loudly about Jesus

So Crucified Jesus is a powerful symbol in Human History

*4) Believing means, Following Crucified Christ*

This is very clearly seen in the life of St Thomas

For Him the Crucified Christ was everything, that is why for him faith primarily depends in this image 

Even by seeing the marks of crucified Christ, faith of St Thomas was deepened 

Even today, crucified Christ is very powerful to deepen our faith 

*5) What is my Reaction/Response when I see the Crucified Christ*

Am I fascinated with this image? 

How often I look at this image and reflect about it? 

Does it attracts me or am I frightened to reflect about the truths behind crucifixion? 

Like Thomas we are able to see the Risen Lord in Crucified Jesus - what is my response? 

Let this image always inspire us to bear witness to Christ, like Thomas.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*