Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Affirmation of Christ as Lord and God

John 20:24-29

Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!” (V.28)

St. Thomas the Apostle, has often been called "doubting Thomas".  However, I believe this is a misnomer; a more appropriate name would "daring Thomas".  That is because it is not his doubt that defines his identity but, his faith that reveals his true character and witness.  

Faith, as Bold Testimony: Thomas was a person of boldness who exhibited this through his faith as well.  He is the one who declared,  "Let us also go, that we may die with Him."(John 11:16).  Initially, while the other disciples were locked in the room for fear of the Jews, Thomas dared to leave that comfort and security and venture outside.  Likewise, he was not one to simply follow the crowd or accept the word of others.  Jesus Christ thus appears specifically for him and invites him alone to touch His body.  It is then that he proclaims, "My Lord and My God!".  His faith is revealed as the bold testimony of one whose doubts have been erased.  However, this is also a proclamation of praise and worship due to God in Jesus Christ.  Furthermore, it is an act of submission as he declares the Risen Christ as Lord or Master.  His testimony, therefore, reveals a deep and bold faith understanding.  
Faith, as Personal Expression:  When we observe the passage, we may also note that Thomas speaks using "I" and "My" statements.  That is, his relationship and faith in Jesus Christ is a very personal and intimate expression.  That is, it is not the words of the other disciples that is basis of his faith.  It is rather his own personal encounter with the Risen Christ that is at the core of his faith and life.  He not only felt the real need to experience Christ personally but, to also the need to personally proclaim Him.  Thus, he communicates that faith is not an emotion and expression separate of the self.  It is also not simply a corporate experience.  So, faith must flow out of a personal conviction that is grounded in the realization of who God was, is and always shall be.  

How does testimony reveal our faith or lack thereof? Are our faith proclamations truly reflective of our submission to our Master and God?  How personal is our faith to us? Would you dare to personally proclaim your faith first among your friends, family and then all the world? These are questions that we need to really ask ourselves.  Sometimes our faith simply becomes an ornament that we carry with us when we want and remove it when it's not convenient.  Thomas was honest about his doubt and his faith.  Submit yourself before Lord God in faith today and always!

Prayer: My Lord and My God, as I approach your throne of grace in faith reveal to me your power and presence more in my life and in my circumstances.  Amen.
Thought for the day:  “I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.” ― C.S. Lewis


Rev.  Jaisen A Thomas, Immanuel MTC Virginia

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