Stephen preached from John 20:24-31 this morning, asking the question ‘how close are we to Jesus?’
Whilst on earth, the twelve disciples were the people closest to Jesus, but here in this post-resurrection scene, we see how Thomas is struggling to make sense of all that has happened. He did not believe the other disciples’ testimony of having seen the resurrected Lord, but wanted to see for himself the wounds – the hands, feet and side which had been pierced. We can be like Thomas, seeking physical proofs rather than walking by faith.
Jesus tells Thomas, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” (John 20:29) May we have the faith to hear God, listen to His voice and obey what He commands, even without the reassurance that physical proofs can give us. May we be among those who have not necessarily seen but who still believe.