REMEMBER THOMAS

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Let us take a moment to reflect on the Good News through the life of one of Jesus’ apostles: Thomas.

Thomas, also called Didymus (meaning “Twin”), was one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus. He was not like Judas Iscariot, the one who betrayed the Lord. In fact, Thomas once boldly declared his willingness to die with Jesus. When Jesus announced His plan to return to Judea despite the danger, Thomas said to the others, “Let us also go, that we may die with him” (John 11:16, NIV). This shows that Thomas deeply loved Jesus and was ready to risk his life for Him.

However, Thomas had a different kind of weakness—a tendency toward doubt and skepticism, especially concerning the power of God. This inner struggle affected not only his faith but also his spiritual participation and presence among the other apostles.

After the resurrection, Jesus appeared to the disciples when they were gathered together in fear, praying behind locked doors. But Thomas was not with them. His absence was significant. He missed a divine encounter that his fellow disciples experienced. Later, when they joyfully told him, “We have seen the Lord!”, Thomas responded with unbelief:
“Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe” (John 20:25, NIV).

This moment reflects the danger of spiritual isolation and the cost of withdrawing from fellowship. Thomas’s doubts might have been fueled by discouragement, confusion, or personal despair—but in distancing himself from the community, he distanced himself from the very place where Christ revealed Himself.

Eight days later, Jesus appeared again—this time, Thomas was present. Jesus, in His mercy, addressed Thomas directly:
“Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe” (John 20:27, NIV).

Thomas was overcome with faith and declared, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28, NIV). Jesus replied, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” (John 20:29, NIV).

This story teaches us several key theological truths:

God honors honest doubts, but calls us toward trust and belief.
There is spiritual power in community—some divine revelations come when we are gathered together in unity (see Matthew 18:20).
Isolation can hinder faith, especially during trials. Even when we don’t feel strong, staying in fellowship can position us to receive encouragement, strength, and even encounters with the risen Christ.

Let us, therefore, not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another (Hebrews 10:25, NIV). Avoid spiritual absenteeism. Don’t let disappointment or doubt drive you into isolation. Stay connected. Stay prayerful. Stay present. Some blessings and revelations are meant to be received in the presence of others.

May the Lord help us to remain faithful and steadfast, especially in moments of uncertainty. Like Thomas, we may doubt—but let us remain where Christ can find us: among His people.