Saturday March 30, 2024
John 20:29
Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me?
Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
Until that moment, Thomas had evidently always struggled with nagging doubts. He was full of questions, and his mind was, by nature, skeptical. Yet Jesus loved him, believed in him, and gave him irrefutable, visible, empirical proof of the Resurrection: “Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side. Do not disbelieve, but believe” (John 20:27). Imagine the relief and joy that swelled into Thomas’s heart as he replied, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28). Could there be any greater happiness?
Yes—ours! Jesus used this conversation with Thomas to issue His last beatitude before the Ascension: blessed—happy, joyful, and to be envied—are those who have not seen and yet have believed.
One day we’ll behold Him face-to-face, and our eyes will gaze upon the nail prints in His hands. But until then, we’re blessed for walking with Him by faith and not by sight. Of all people on earth, we are the most joyful. So shouldn’t we be smiling today?
Why should I charge my soul with care? The wealth of ev’ry mine belongs to Christ,
God’s Son and Heir, and He’s a friend of mine!
JOHN H. SAMMIS
FOR THE LOVE OF GOD 