Dare to Doubt

During this Easter season our scripture readings

tell of the resurrection appearances of Jesus. After spending time with Doubting Thomas, I offer the following reflection.

Dear Thomas,

How grateful we are to you for your gift of doubt;

         for questioning appearances;

         for taking the time you needed with your grief.

Grief at the great disruption

            of your heart’s desire to be moving forward in life with your friend, Jesus.

Grief at his disappearance in such a bloody and brutal manner.

It appears that as you were longing for belonging,

Separated from the experience of your companions;

So was your Beloved One,

            The One you knew,

            Who knew you knew… knew you,

            Longing for you to know

            You were still known

And so a new invitation came to you:

Come, draw near, touch the place of my wounds.

Let go of anything that keeps you afraid.

Place your hand in my side and

Know me from the inside out, as I know you, still.

In to me, see.

Nothing has changed, except  everything.

As I have been transformed, so have you.

Believe in yourself.

Believe in me.

Believe in life.

I have known you from of old.

I know you now, and

I hold with you a future memory.

My life flows into you and through you

And through you into all you desire to be part of with me.

Dear Thomas,

Thank you for letting your doubt out.