The Holy Doubt of St Thomas

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season:  Thirteenth Week :  Thursday*

*Feast of St Thomas*

*Gospel : Jn 20:24–29*

*First Reading : Eph 2:19–22*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 117:1bc, 2*

*The Holy Doubt of St Thomas*

*1) The Story of St Thomas*

After Jesus' resurrection, He appeared to the disciples, but Thomas (called Didymus) was not present. 

When the others told him, he refused to believe unless he could see and touch Jesus’ wounds. 

A week later, Jesus appeared again, this time with Thomas present. He invited Thomas to touch His wounds. 

Thomas responded: *“My Lord and my God!”* (John 20:28)

*2) Thomas’ Doubt Reflects Human Struggle*

Thomas represents many people who wrestle with doubt, especially during suffering or loss. 

He was not a cynic but a grieving disciple, traumatized by the crucifixion. His doubt was honest, arising from deep love and disappointment.

God is not offended by our sincere questions. Like Thomas, we are invited to bring our wounds and confusion to the Risen Lord.

*3) Jesus Meets Us Where We Are*

Jesus did not rebuke Thomas harshly. Instead, He invited him to touch His wounds. 

This shows that Christ understands our human need for reassurance.

God meets each person personally—some through sight, others through faith. The Risen Jesus offers both proof and peace.

*4) Faith Beyond Sight*

Jesus’ final words, *“Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed”,* are a message to future generations—that includes all of us. 

Faith is trusting even without physical proof.

Christian life is a journey of trust. Our belief rests not on physical evidence, but on the Word of God, the testimony of the Church, and the witness of changed lives.

*5) The Power of the Wounds*

Jesus kept His wounds even after resurrection—He didn't hide them. 

He invited Thomas to touch them. His wounds are a sign of love, not shame.

In our own wounds and weakness, God’s glory can shine. 

Our brokenness can be the place of encounter with the Risen Christ.

*6) From Doubt to Mission*

Tradition holds that after this encounter, Thomas went as a missionary to India, where he preached the Gospel and was martyred. 

His doubt turned into deep conviction and fearless faith.

Even doubters can become great witnesses. God uses our weakest moments to lead us into strong mission.

The Doubt of Thomas is not merely a past event—it’s an ongoing invitation to each believer:

To encounter Christ personally.

To bring our doubts and receive His peace.

To move from doubt to proclamation: *“My Lord and my God!”*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*