Saint Thomas the Apostle
(Franciscan Media) Poor Thomas, he made one poor remark and was branded as ‘Doubting Thomas’ ever since but if he doubted, he also believed. Thomas made what is certainly the most explicit statement of faith in the New Testament: “My Lord and My God.” —John 20:28 and in so expressing his faith, gave Christians a prayer that will be said until the end of time. — Thomas also occasioned a compliment from Jesus to all later Christians:
“Have you believed because you have seen Me?
Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe.”
John 20:29
Saint Thomas should be equally well known for his courage. Perhaps what he said was impetuous–since he ran, like the rest at the showdown but he can scarcely have been insincere when he expressed his willingness to die for Jesus.
The occasion when Jesus proposed to go to Bethany after Lazarus had died. Since Bethany was near Jerusalem, this meant walking into the very midst of his enemies and to almost certain death. Realizing this, Thomas said to the other Apostles: “Let us also go, that we may die with him.” —John 11:16
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI reminds us that the “Apostle Thomas’ life is important to us for at least three reasons:
- First, it comforts us in our own insecurity;
- Second it shows us that every doubt can lead to an outcome brighter than any uncertainty;
- Lastly, because the words that Jesus addressed to him, reminds us of the true meaning of mature faith and encourages us to persevere, despite the difficulty along our journey of adhesion to him.
Saint Thomas’ example will never fail to strengthen our faith in Jesus Christ, Our Lord and Our God.”
Full text here of Pope Benedict XVI on St. Thomas
More here from EWTN
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