Eight days later, His disciples were inside again, and Thomas was with them.
John 20:24-29
Eight days have gone by since Jesus appeared to His Disciples and, now, all the Disciples are together, including Thomas. Right after Jesus’ first appearance, Thomas was told of Jesus’ visit to the Disciples. Thomas’ reply is where we get the term, “doubting Thomas.” Thomas was adamant that he must touch Jesus and put his hand in the wound on Jesus’ side. So, Jesus, in His second appearance to His Disciples, gives His greetings of “Peace” to them and, then, tells Thomas to put his finger in His wounds and to believe. Thomas was so awe struck that he only said, “My Lord and my God!” Then, John records Jesus’ response, “Have you believed because you have seen Me?” And, Jesus continues saying, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” This is the condition of every Christian since Jesus ascended into Heaven! Christians believe without seeing the risen Savior because they have the hope of life eternal found only in Jesus, His righteous earthly life and His atoning death. The Christian’s hope is not wishful thinking but, a guarantee, by the in-dwelling Holy Spirit, that we will see Jesus, whether we are called into His presence at death or translated into Heaven at the shout of His second coming. Are you prepared? Do you have that personal relationship that only a Christian can have? There is still time! But, it must be done this side of glory. It will be too late when Jesus returns!
Source: S C Ball April 11, 2023
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