The Word: "You have believed because you have seen me. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe." ." (John 20:29)
Mystery of the day: Sorrowful
Celebration of the day: St. Thomas Apostle
Among the apostles, Thomas is remembered mainly because of his doubts about the resurrection of Christ. He did not want to admit anything that went beyond the bounds of his experience and reason. Eight days later he made up for that unbelief with a profession of faith, "My Lord and my God" (Jn 20:28). According to tradition, he preached the gospel in India where he suffered martyrdom.
Table of the Word: I R.: Ephesians 2:19-22
Resp. Psalm: Psalm 117
Verse before the Gospel: Psalm 130:5
Gospel: John 20:24-29
Inspiration:
Beloved in Christ Jesus, as we join the Mother Church today to celebrate the Feast of one of the outstanding Apostles - Thomas whom many designated as "the doubting Apostle." I wish to reflect with you on the theme: "In faith we believe." This phrase expresses the core of Christian theology and defines the personality of every one marked with the sigh of the Cross (Christian). Faith as one of the theological virtues is the foundation of Christian life and through it we believe in God's existence and His unfathomable love and mercy for us. It is through faith that we come to the understanding of Jesus Christ as our Lord and Saviour; we also come to the full understanding of sacraments and their significance which out of love our Lord hand over to the Church.
However, this phrase is often used in liturgies, prayers, and hymns to affirm the centrality of faith in our relationship with God. It is a declaration of our trust and confidence in God's promises and provision.
In the light of this that we bare our minds today on the essence of our faith in God as the Lord says: "You have believed because you have seen me. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe." (John 20:29).
On our journey of faith, how much of faith do we have? In moment of difficulties and uncertainties do we trust in God? Do we allow our doubt to weigh us down? These and many other questions called for deeper reflection today. Amidst this doubt, God will certainly manifest Himself in our various situations and events of life to re-order the disorderliness in life, and make the crooked lines straight.
As St. Thomas the Apostle finally profess his faith in God saying "My Lord and my God" (Jn 20:28).He stripped himself of the blindess which created douth in him. This profession of faith of his call us to a life of faith in acknowledging God in every situation of our lives.
Finally, let us in faith believe that there is nothing absolutely that God cannot do for us; while praying for the grace to see beyond our doubt. Peace be with you!
Let us pray
Grant, almighty God, that we may glory in the feast of the blessed Apostle Thomas, so that we may always be sustained by his intercession and, believing, may have life in the name of Jesus Christ your Son, whom Thomas acknowledged as the Lord. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen
© The ARCHIVE 03072024
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