John 20:19-31

In today's story, Jesus appears to the disciples. But Thomas is not there. When he later hears of the event, he refuses to believe it. One week later, Jesus, again, appears to the disciples, including Thomas. When Thomas sees the marks in Jesus's hands and side, he finally believes in the resurrection of his Lord.

It is an entire week from the first appearance to the second.
What was that week like for Thomas?

Perhaps he thought the other disciples had been drunk, or deceived, or were trying to deceive him? Perhaps he shut himself away in grief and anger?

Or perhaps he stayed in their company for the week. Did the other disciples harass him, trying to convince him of the truth? Did they mock him for his doubt? Did they have great arguments amongst themselves, with Thomas and the disciples trading 'evidence' for and against the resurrection? Perhaps he refused to believe that Jesus would appear to the group when it was incomplete.

Was there ever a moment when Thomas's doubt subsided? Did he try to imagine what it would be like for Jesus to come back from the dead, but the pain of hoping was too much to bear?

All of these possibilities would be genuinely human responses. But Jesus has a truly divine response. He doesn't punish Thomas for his lack of faith. Instead, he gives him all the evidence he requires.

We all have times of doubt, especially in a God who cannot be seen by the physical eye. But Thomas shows us that faith has nothing to do with sight, and that God blesses those who take that leap of faith. "How happy are those who believe without seeing me!" (20:29) How happy indeed!