Every 3rd of July we recount the story of “doubting Thomas” in the Gospel during the Mass (Jn 20:24-29).
Invariably the homily will tell us how Thomas was incredulous of the Apostles when told of the resurrection.
I ask myself, was he that wrong on acting like he did?
I don't see Thomas as a person that lacked faith or character. For example, when Lazarus was resurrected by our Lord, and Jesus told the Apostles he was going to Jerusalem, Thomas was the only one that acted like a man, and told the others "Let us also go to die with him." (Jn 11:16).
Here is a thought. In today's gospel we hear that Jesus appeared first to a group of people that did not include Thomas amongst them (Jn 20:24-25). When they told Thomas Jesus appeared to them, was this a test, not for Thomas's faith in Jesus, but on how much he trusted his fellow Apostles, his friends?
Was he unsure of the accuracy of the accounts told to him of Jesus's return?
Could it have been that St. Thomas really wanted to understand what he was supposed to believe in?
A week later, Jesus appeared to them, and this time Thomas was present. After witnessing Jesus's wounds, Thomas was the first person to say to Jesus, "My Lord and my God!" (Jn 20:28).
Once he understood that Jesus is God, St. Thomas gave 110% of himself, and never looked back.
I believe, asking questions in a respectful manner, helps you better understand your faith, the direction you need to take, and helps you remove any doubts you might have about giving yourself to God.
