Various Lessons from the Absence of Thomas

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season:  2 Week : Sunday*

*Divine Mercy : Feast*

*Gospel : Jn 20:19-31*

*First Reading : Acts 5:12-16*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24*

*Second Reading : Rev 1:9-11a, 12-13, 17-19*

*Various Lessons from the Absence of Thomas*

*1) The Absence of Thomas*

When the Risen Lord Jesus first appeared to His disciples (on the evening of Resurrection Sunday), Thomas was not with them.

 The Gospel of John says it very clearly that *Now Thomas, called the Twin, one of the Twelve, was not with them when Jesus came."*

The Gospel does not tell us where Thomas had gone or why he was absent. It simply notes his absence.

This absence has some powerful lessons to learn 

*2) Absence from the Community Can Cause Us to Miss Grace*

Thomas' absence caused him to miss the first encounter with the Risen Christ.

This reminds us how important it is to stay connected to the community of faith, especially in times of crisis or doubt. 

When we withdraw, we risk

missing the gifts Christ offers through the Church — peace, joy, and confirmation of faith.

*3) The Silent Work of Grace During Absence*

During those eight days, Thomas was wrestling with his doubts.

We often think nothing is happening in our periods of absence or darkness — but grace often works silently, preparing us for an encounter with God.

*4) God’s Mercy Meets Us Even When We Miss Out*

Even though Thomas was absent and doubted, Jesus came again a week later specifically to address Thomas' need for assurance (John 20:26-27).

This shows that Christ is patient with our weaknesses, willing to meet us where we are, even after we've missed out the first time.

*5) Doubt Is Not the End — It Can Lead to a Deeper Faith*

Thomas’ doubt wasn't final. It led him to one of the strongest confessions of faith in the New Testament:

*"My Lord and my God!"* (John 20:28)

Sometimes moments of absence or doubt can become stepping stones to an even deeper and more personal faith when we are honest and when we stay open to Christ

*6) Every Disciple Has a Different Journey to Encounter the Risen Lord*

Not all the disciples saw Christ at the same time or in the same way. 

Thomas' journey reminds us that faith isn’t always instant.

For some, it takes more time, questions, and personal encounters.

*7) Faith Is Not Always Immediate — It Is a Journey*

Thomas’ journey reminds us that faith sometimes grows slowly, through pain, questioning, and second chances.

His absence did not disqualify him — rather, his eventual confession ("My Lord and my God!") became one of the clearest proclamations of Jesus’ divinity.

*8) The Compassion of the Risen Christ*

Jesus does not rebuke Thomas harshly; He invites him gently:

*"Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand here, and put it into My side. Do not be unbelieving, but believing."* (John 20:27)

Christ meets Thomas at the level of his need

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*