The Kitchen Sink
An occasional piece of paper
May 1, 2011
Vol. 14 no. 18
Every year on the Sunday after Easter, the Day that defines Christianity and its particular faith, Thomas shows up and doubts it down. It has become one of those predictable stories that we have heard too many times. By too many, I mean that we have it all figured out and no longer pay attention to what is happening. Thomas is a little thick, missed the important resurrection meeting of the Apostles, so starts acting like he is from Missouri (‘show me!’). Everybody but Thomas knows that Jesus is risen, so what’s wrong with him?
Was this a case of Thomas cynically doubting or was it his faith he didn’t want to destroy through some desperate wishful thinking on the part of his fellow disciples? Thomas knew this was far too important to go on feelings or visions or rumours, and yes, he probably overstated his case. Thomas, after all, was a second career disciple; probably was a politician in his first career.
Doubt has been painted in too heavy in a colour, always opposed to the lightness of faith. Being human beings, doubt and faith are interwoven into each other. There are plenty of Christian speakers and churches who insist that there is no doubt in them with regard to the integrity of the Christian story and its Christ. Somehow they have missed a step or two in the way the human mind operates, since doubt pushes faith and faith encourages doubt. If you believe you no longer have any doubt, then I doubt you have genuine faith for the long haul.
Thomas knew his words made him appear ridiculous when Jesus showed up again, but so what, for faith in this world always seems foolish.
Knox-Metropolitan United Church
Regina, Saskatchewan