MP: Psalms 23, 121; Job 42:1-6; 1 Peter 1:3-9EP: Psalm 27; Isaiah 43:8-13; John 14:1-7
Today is the feast day of St. Thomas the Apostle. A terrific apostle to celebrate just before Christmas. Some snippets from Holy Women, Holy Men: Celebrating The Saints to explain why I believe this is a great placement of this feast day.
"Thomas appears to have been a thoughtful if rather literal-minded man, inclined to skepticism; but he was a staunch friend when his loyalty was once given. The expression "Doubting Thomas" which has become established in English usage, is not entirely fair to Thomas. He did not refuse belief: he wanted to believe, but did not dare, without further evidence. Because of his goodwill, Jesus gave him a sign, though Jesus had refused a sign to the Pharisees. His Lord's rebuke was well deserved: 'Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe'. The sign did not create faith, it merely released the faith which was in Thomas already.........Thomas' honest questioning and doubt, and Jesus' assuring response to him, have given many modern Christians courage to persist in faith, even when they are still doubting and questioning."
Skepticism, doubt, questioning, and yet faith persists..... Truly a grand saint to remember as we draw ever nearer to the mystery of the Incarnation.
The Collect for this feast day:
Everliving God, who strengthened your apostle Thomas with firm and certain faith in your Son's resurrection; Grant us so perfectly and without doubt to believe in Jesus Christ, our Lord and our God, that our faith may never be found wanting in your sight; through him who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
jfd+
Copyright 2010, The Rev. John F. Dwyer. All Rights Reserved.
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