Thomas and his doubts.

So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!”  Thomas said to them, “Unless I see the scars of the nails in his hands and put my finger on those scars and my hand in his side, I will not believe.” John20:25

Thomas, one of Jesus’ original disciples has the reputation of a bad boy.   The title ‘doubting Thomas’ has dogged him for the last two thousand years and I think it’s a bit unfair.  It wasn’t as if Thomas had betrayed Jesus for silver or denied him in public.   When the other disciples told him about Jesus meeting them in the upper room after his death and burial, Thomas was dubious and I reckon his reply was nothing short of sarcasm. 

 If we are honest, most of us would state something along the lines of “I’ll believe it when I see it!” when presented with something that goes beyond the boundary of credibility.   Jesus obviously wasn’t offended by Thomas’ comment, as he was quite happy to go to Thomas and ease his doubts by showing him his scars.

We all have doubts now and then.  But at the same time, I don’t think those doubts offend Jesus.  In fact, I believe it’s his desire to ease those doubts.   We just need to allow Jesus come close enough so he can ease them.

What do you think?

How To Become the Disciple Who Jesus Loves.

I used to think John was Jesus’ favourite disciple, until I realised one day that the phrase ‘the disciple whom Jesus loved’ is only found in Johns own gospel.    In fact, John called himself ‘the disciple whom Jesus loved’ or ‘the beloved disciple’ five times.  I’m positive Jesus loved all the disciples but it seemed only John really knew it in his heart because he proudly claimed it as his identity.  

Once you start to get an understanding of what Jesus actually did for you on the cross, it’s natural to want to do as much as you can to show your love for him.  However, I believe God wants us to boast of Jesus’ love for us, rather than our love for him. I’m fully certain he wants each of us to confidently claim “I am the disciple who Jesus loves” just like John. 

Why not try claiming this truth for yourself?  Each morning when you first get out of bed, say “I am the disciple Jesus loves”.  It might feel funny at first, but I’m confident, after just a few days of speaking out Gods love for you, it will sink into your spirit and you will begin to claim your true identity as the beloved disciple.  

If you decide to take up my challenge and start claiming Jesus’ unconditional and boundless love for yourself each day, let me know how you go.