Feast of St. Thomas, Apostle
The poor Apostle Thomas will always be known as the one who doubted the Resurrection. Rarely do people recall his declaration that they would follow Jesus to his death when he returned to Jerusalem (John 11:16). It may be fitting to forget that statement, though, since Thomas did not remain at Jesus’ side through his passion and death but instead hid from the authorities.
If we are honest with ourselves, each of us knows that we have been guilty of a lack of faith at one time or another. We want people to focus on our good qualities, but ignoring our shortcomings prevents us from returning to the Lord. Thomas may not have embraced the cross at the same time as Jesus, but he was offered the chance to return to his Lord and friend after he rose from the dead, and he was able to declare the divinity of Jesus: “My Lord and my God!” He was forgiven his failure to follow Jesus and his doubt of the Resurrection, and he was reconciled with the Savior and empowered with his Spirit to spread the Good News to all the world.
Eventually, Thomas did sacrifice his life for Jesus as he proclaimed the Gospel. He may be remembered for his failure, but it reminds us that our failures do not define us and that God is always eager to welcome us back into right relationship and empower us to grow beyond our weaknesses through the one who died so that we might live.
Reflection by Fr. Victor Schinstock, OSB
Posted in Articles for Ordinary Time, Daily Reflections