Wednesday, April 10, 2002
Wednesday, April 10, 2002
But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them
when Jesus came.
That had not yet happened to Thomas. He was not yet lost. He was simply missing when a
significant occasion happened in the life of the Christian community. After all, he was one of
the twelve selected by Jesus to be his disciples. A good guess would be that Thomas' heavy
heart was responsible for his absence. Some people in times of grief want to be alone. Maybe
Thomas sought out his own family after the crucifixion. Maybe he felt he would find more
comfort there than with the ten disciples who were left.
We could not blame him if this were a time of crisis. It was for all the disciples. They knew
Jesus to be the Messiah. They were awaiting the establishment of his kingdom. Now he was
gone. Crucified like a criminal.
Still, Thomas was missing when Jesus made his first dramatic resurrection appearance to his
disciples. Thus he was still in his doubt and despair. It is a good warning to us. Stay closely
connect to your community of faith.
(John 20.24
NRSV)
People start missing church. Only a Sunday or two at first, then worship becomes the
exception, not the rule and finally they are lost from the fellowship altogether. Like the
proverbial ember remove from the fire, they cool, lose their ardor, and are very difficult to
rekindle.
Dear God, when I stray, remind me to move back close to you and your community of faith in
Jesus Christ. Amen.
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