Poor St. Thomas is labeled “doubting” for voicing what was probably in the minds of the other apostles when Jesus told them not to be troubled, to hold questions in their hearts, and to touch him to see that he was not a ghost. They also were slow to believe Mary Magdalene and went to verify her story for themselves.
So often I feel just like Thomas. I fail to recognize Jesus in the poor, in the marginalized, in my family, and in the daily circumstances of my life. Yet, there comes a moment, when in prayer or in the silence of my heart, I feel his presence. Other times, I recognize him in someone’s act of kindness or encouragement. Then, like Thomas, I’m ashamed and can whisper my own “My Lord and my God.” It also reminds me that Jesus did not correct Thomas, but encouraged him to come - to touch him and believe!
Sr. Rose Marie O’Barski, CSFN
