Jesus gave Doubting Thomas exactly what he needed to move from doubt to belief. Angelo Canta, SJ, reflects on the importance of giving the Lord everything in prayer. Readings can be found here.
Doubt is not the opposite of belief.
Hi, I’m Angelo Canta, and this is my one-minute reflection.
I really like Doubting Thomas, and I think people often misunderstand his doubt. Think about the week he just had. He saw the same crowd that welcomed Jesus with shouts of joy turn against him and call for his crucifixion. What’s worse is that he turned his back on Jesus and left him in his hour of need. Imagine hearing that Jesus has come back from the dead. I think Thomas’ doubt was totally understandable.
I also don’t think Thomas’ doubt is sinful or backward. He shows us that doubt is a step toward belief. He wants proof to know for himself that Jesus truly rose from the dead. And when Jesus does appear to him, he does not roll his eyes. Jesus does not rebuke Thomas. Instead, he invites Thomas to do exactly what he needs to do to believe: to touch his wounds. Notice that he doesn’t invite anyone else to touch his wounds. He gives Thomas exactly what he needs to move from doubt to belief.
In our own lives, let us not be afraid to tell Jesus exactly what our doubts are. And, after receiving what Jesus wants to give us, we can say with eyes and hearts opened, “My Lord and My God!”
