The Story of Doubting Thomas (John 20:24-29)

In yesterday’s Bible Story, Jesus showed himself to his disciples and turned their sorry into joy. It was a wonderful thing that happened to them, and they would never be the same because of it. There was, however, one disciple named Thomas that was not with them when Jesus came. When he returned to the group, the other disciples were very excited and said to him, “We have seen the Lord.” Thomas, however, had a hard time believing that Jesus was really alive again. He had seen him die on the cross, and when Jesus died it seems that Thomas gave up all his faith and hope. He had to be very depressed and sad when he told the other disciples, “Except I shall see in his hand the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.” That was not a good thing for Thomas to say, but I think he was probably being honest and telling the other disciples how he really felt. Do you think Jesus knew what Thomas said? Eight days later, the disciples were in the same room, and this time Thomas was with them. The Bible says, “Then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you.” His glorified body again passed through the door without it being opened. Thomas knew Jesus had heard what he said eight days ago because Jesus told him to touch the nail prints in his hands and to put this hand into his side. Jesus also told him not to doubt anymore but to believe. When Thomas saw and heard Jesus, he said, “My Lord and my God.” Jesus then said, “Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.” I have not seen him, but I believe in Jesus, do you?