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SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER
For all of their redemptive works which led to
the spread of Christianity throughout the world, the disciples of Jesus weren't
exactly saintly in the hours before and days after the crucifixion. Having
abandoned him in fear for their lives, they still did not comprehend the meaning
of Christ's promise (made many times) to rise again. Even presented with the
physical proof of an empty tomb, they continued to hide behind a locked door,
unsure of their future. Even Thomas, who could best be described as the Eeyore
of the group, couldn't bear to be with the rest of them. Not exactly how Jesus
wanted them to begin their ministry in his name!
In today's Gospel reading from John, Jesus
appears to the disciples (except for Thomas) inside the
upper room despite the door being locked. Having
shown them the holes in his hands and side, they are now convinced of his
resurrection. Offering them peace, Jesus breathes into them the Holy Spirit and
commands them to go out into the world to forgive sins. Yet Thomas still cannot
be convinced despite ten men proclaiming Christ's presence until he himself is
greeted. Even among those closest to Jesus, fear and doubt were all too present.
In the Catechism of the Catholic Church, we are
taught that "to be a witness to Christ is to be a
'witness to his Resurrection,' to '[have eaten
and drunk] with him after he rose from the dead'" (CCC
995). This means that in every instance available
to us, we are to speak to others of the saving grace that is belief in Jesus
and, whenever possible, to share in the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist. Though
we did not touch his hands and side, we remember his words to Thomas: "Blessed
are those who have not seen and have believed."
Thomas answered and said to him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to him,
“Have you come to believe because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have
not seen and have believed.”
- John 20:28-29
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