“Thomas, called Didymus (the Twin), one of the Twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples said to him, ‘We have seen the Lord.’ But he said to them, ‘Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands and put my finger into the nail marks and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.’ Now, a week later his disciples were again inside and Thomas was with them. Jesus came, although the doors were locked, and stood in their midst and said, ‘Peace be with you.’ Then he said to Thomas, ‘Put your finger here and see my hands, and bring your hand and put it into my side, and do not be unbelieving, but believe.’ Thomas answered and said to him, ‘My Lord and my God!’” John 20: 24-28
There are three “moments” in the progression of my namesake’s experience of faith which we celebrate this Second Sunday of Easter. We have concluded the Great Day of Easter which we celebrated each of the eight days of the Octave of Easter. We have arrived at this next great day, also celebrated as the Sunday of Divine Mercy.
First, Thomas, not greatly different from us, has been shaken by the events of Jesus’ words and actions on what we now recall and cherish as Holy Thursday, by the arrest, condemnation and crucifixion of Our Lord. He was “left out” of the others’ encounter with the Risen One and so he struggles to feel any sense of consolation or encouragement from what the others are saying. It doesn’t seem real … so how can it be?!?
Secondly, Jesus approaches Thomas as he has approached the others. He does not assail him with criticism or judgment. Knowing the brokenness of the human heart he experienced on the way to and on the cross itself, he reaches into Thomas’ heart by inviting him to reach into his own, wounded side.
Finally, Thomas responds, not just with fingers or hands, but with mind, body, and spirit! He who stood on such shaky ground sees before him “My Lord and my God.” This day WE share in Thomas’ journey to faith, and in Jesus journey to mercy given beyond measure to all who call upon Him in faith!