Thought for the Week

‘Which biblical character do you most relate to?’

This was one of the questions explored last Sunday at our Springbank Evangelical Church meeting in Campbeltown.

It was enlightening and interesting to listen to the variety of responses.

One member of the congregation admitted she had sympathy for the disciple Thomas and identified with his reaction to the news that, after three days, Jesus had risen from the tomb.

The Bible tells us Thomas said: ‘Unless I see the scars of the nails in his hands and put my finger on those scars and my hand in his side, I will not believe.’ (John chapter 20 verse 25)

A week later, when Jesus appeared to Thomas and showed him his wounds, He imparted a deep and significant lesson to us all as he uttered a short, challenging sentence: ‘How happy are those who believe without seeing me.’

Poor Thomas. Did he feel embarrassed in front of his friends who did not share his doubts? Did he feel ashamed that his faith had not remained resolute or was he able to put those feelings aside and share the joy of the risen Lord?

We know Thomas responded with the words: ‘My Lord and my God.’

More than 2,000 years later, we may feel embarrassed if our faith falters and doubts set in.

However, we should focus on the happiness of which Jesus speaks.

Have the strength and hope to echo the words of Thomas: ‘My Lord and my God.’

Do not beat yourself up for doubting – have the strength to believe.

Springbank Evangelical Church,

Campbeltown.