John 20:19-31 is a powerful and inspiring reading that teaches us to believe beyond what we see. It speaks to us about the power of faith, the lessons from Doubting Thomas, the gift of belief, and the importance of seeing with the eyes of the heart. Let’s take a closer look at this passage and unpack its profound messages.
The Power of Faith
Faith is a fundamental element of life. It is the glue that holds us together, the rock that we stand on when all else fails. In John 20:19-31, we see the disciples, who are grief-stricken and fearful, locked in a room, and Jesus appears before them. He shows them his wounds, and they believe. It is through their faith that they are freed from their fear and sorrow.
This passage teaches us that faith is a powerful force that can transform our lives. It can help us overcome our doubts and fears, and it can lead us to a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Faith is not just about believing in God; it is about believing in ourselves and our ability to overcome adversity.
Lessons from Doubting Thomas
Thomas, one of the disciples, was not present when Jesus appeared to the others. When they told him what had happened, he refused to believe unless he saw Jesus with his own eyes. Jesus later appears to Thomas and invites him to touch his wounds. Thomas believes and exclaims, “My Lord and my God!”
Thomas’ doubts teach us that it is natural to have moments of uncertainty and skepticism. However, when we are open to the possibility of belief, we can experience profound transformation. Thomas teaches us that it is okay to ask questions and seek answers, but we must also be willing to accept the answers when they are revealed to us.
The Gift of Belief
Belief is a gift that we receive from God. It is not something that we can earn or acquire through our own efforts. In John 20:19-31, Jesus breathes on the disciples and says, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.”
This passage teaches us that belief is not just about accepting a set of doctrines or principles. It is about receiving the Holy Spirit and allowing it to transform us from within. When we believe in God, we open ourselves up to a new way of being and living. We become vessels for God’s love and grace to flow through us and touch the lives of others.
Seeing with the Eyes of the Heart
Finally, John 20:19-31 teaches us about the importance of seeing with the eyes of the heart. When Jesus appears to the disciples, he shows them his wounds, and they believe. They do not need physical proof; they see with the eyes of their heart.
This passage encourages us to look beyond what we can see with our physical eyes and trust in the wisdom of our hearts. When we see with the eyes of our heart, we can perceive the deeper truths of life. We can see the beauty and goodness in ourselves and others, even in the midst of darkness and suffering.
John 20:19-31 is a powerful reminder that we are called to believe beyond what we see. We are called to have faith, even in the face of doubt and uncertainty. We are called to be open to the gift of belief, and to see with the eyes of our heart. May we all be inspired by this reading to live our lives with courage, conviction, and compassion.