Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Parish

In today’s Gospel passage, John 20:19-31, we reflected on a powerful story that many of us know well, the story of “doubting Thomas.” I like to think of it as the story of “honest Thomas” because, let’s be real, who among us hasn’t had moments of doubt?

Picture this: the disciples are huddled together in fear behind locked doors when Jesus appears to them. Just imagine the shock and awe, like seeing vibrant spring flowers burst through the cracks in a winter-worn sidewalk. Yet, Thomas isn’t with them, and when they share the incredible news that Jesus is alive, Thomas is skeptical. He wants proof. He wants to see and touch Jesus’ wounds to believe.

Isn’t that so relatable? Sometimes, we all need tangible reassurance to believe in something beyond our immediate understanding. It’s like planting a seed and needing to see the green sprout before trusting that the roots are growing beneath the soil. Jesus knows this about us. He knows our hearts and our need for evidence. And instead of chastising Thomas, Jesus meets him right where he is, offering him exactly what he needs to believe.

Jesus’ response to Thomas is gentle and patient. He doesn’t rebuke him for his doubts but invites him to see and touch. This is a beautiful reminder that our doubts don’t disqualify us from Christ’s love. In fact, they become the fertile ground in which our faith can grow. Jesus understands our humanity; He knows it’s not always easy to believe in what we cannot see. Like a patient gardener, He nurtures our faith, giving it room to grow and flourish.

Think about your own life. Have there been times when you’ve felt unsure or skeptical? Times when believing felt like standing on the edge of a vast ocean, unable to see the other shore? Jesus is with us in those moments, just as He was with Thomas. He’s right there, extending His hands, inviting us to trust in His presence.

And oh, how He loves us! Even when we struggle to see Him in our lives, His presence is as constant as the sun that rises each morning, even when hidden behind clouds. It’s in the gentle breeze that brushes against our skin and the comforting embrace of a loved one. Jesus is always there, waiting patiently, ready to meet us in our doubts and guide us toward deeper faith.

So, let us embrace our doubts, not as stumbling blocks, but as stepping stones toward greater understanding and connection with our Lord. Let us remember that Jesus’ love is unwavering and unconditional. He meets us where we are, and gently calls us to do more, to believe in more.

As we go about our lives this week, let us carry this message in our hearts and share it with those around us. Let us be like Jesus, patient and understanding, meeting others where they are and walking with them on their journey of faith. For in doing so, we not only strengthen our own faith but create a community rooted in love and trust.

May God bless you all, and may your faith continue to grow, no matter how many doubts you encounter along the way.