Doubting (insert name here)

by Ray Reuter on August 10, 2017

I feel bad for the apostle Thomas and the adjective that forever defines him … “doubting.” The poor guy gets “caught” in the gospels and is labeled for life. Thanks John for writing that down in your notes!

One mistake, one slip of the tongue, one hapless choice … caught on “video” and shared with the world. Thomas … always the Doubter.

The reality is that Thomas’ lack of belief was quickly erased when Jesus appeared to him and challenged him to believe by touching his wounds. At that point, Thomas responded with resounding conviction and belief … “My Lord and My God.” After committing a costly turnover, Thomas hit the game winning shot! Thomas’ weakness and temporary unbelief becomes a lesson and keepsake for the rest of us since it prompts Jesus to affirm and bless us for believing what we have not seen. “My Lord and My God!!”

Because they were all human, I bet Thomas wasn’t the only apostle who experienced lapses of unbelief and doubt. All of us (humans) have. It would be hard to believe if you didn’t! (pun intended) And today we live in a culture where many feel we have to know everything … and we have easy access to unlimited data and information. It is far easier to come up with convincing reasons not to believe something.

I recently had one of these infractions related to raising financial support to do more men-strengthening work in Africa for Jesus Christ. I had doubts … and then a tremendous, unexpected gift of support appeared. Doubting (Ray) — you of little faith.

One more high-five for Thomas and his skepticism … It was Thomas who asked Jesus, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Yet another keeper prompted by someone who was real enough to express his doubt.

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