Thomas

I am part of a discussion group that has brought up some interesting thoughts, especially centered around those who have suffered various types of abuse in their lives. Here is a small reflection based on those discussions.

Thomas may not have been the doubter we traditionally think of. He may have doubted but, I rather suspect, it was the doubt of challenge, the doubt of seeing beyond the facade, the doubt needed to test for gold in a world of dross.

We hide our scars. We keep our pain hidden behind suits and gowns, dance steps that mimic joyous abandon, blinking clown tears that wink in the spotlight.

It takes a great deal of love to make us feel safe enough to step out from behind the screen. It takes even more love to let us embrace our pain and see the light shining through the heavy scar lines of darkness. It takes a lifetime of love to rest in the darkness.

Jesus talked about love. He talked about being loved. According to the story, he died because He kept suggesting that love was more powerful than hatred; love had no horizons; love was a round earth theory in a religion of flat earth theology.

Thomas said, “Prove it”. “Let us see your scars.” “Let us touch your pain.” “If you are brave enough to do that ... then ... we can consider what you have said about love.”

“Take off the clean, white robes. Get in the boat with the rest of us. Walk with us along dusty pathways. Let us touch your scars. Take the chance that we will be horrified, will make fun, will reject the person behind.”

Love for an eternity is, possibly, good news. Love that lets you live now is rather more spectacular. Love which lets you live and own your pain is incredible.

Thomas got the point of the message. He was the only one brave enough to verbalize it and make the challenge visible. He was also the first to touch the scars. The first to hold and welcome the WHOLE Jesus.