Read
John 20:18-31
Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”                                                                                 Verse 29 (NIV)

Reflect
I want to complete this section of devotionals on “Staying Connected with Jesus” by recalling the words of Jesus to those who did not see the resurrected Christ – that would be us!

Here they are: “… blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

The Jesus followers of Jesus’ time must have suffered through incredible emotional swings during the time before, during and after the crucifixion. To see Jesus suffering, to hear him cry from the cross, “It is finished,” to be one of the many who abandoned Jesus during this horror. Then suddenly Sunday morning you hear Mary say, “I have seen the Lord!”

Then, later that day, the disciples say that Jesus visited with them. But Thomas wasn’t there, so he missed it. Now it’s a week later, and Thomas is with the other disciples. Suddenly, Jesus is standing there too and saying, “Peace be with you!” Then he turns to Thomas! And he says, “Put your finger here … Reach out your hand …” He’s open to being touched, and even adds, “Stop doubting and believe.” What an incredible experience.

Thomas declares his belief: “My Lord and my God!” And Jesus responds with an affirmation, and with an added blessing for believers who have not seen him but do believe.

Being a disciple is more than an intellectual experience! It’s more than knowing a lot of biblical teachings. It’s more than quoting verses with text and verse number. It’s a lifestyle – a way of living – involving emotions. Can you confess that the risen Jesus is your Lord and God? What a blessing it is to be able to share in that reality today!

Pray
Lord Jesus, today we celebrate your being alive and in the world. We are so grateful for your finished work of salvation. Help us to share it freely. Alleluia! Amen.