Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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 Jesus Christ Who Restores

John 20:24–29

Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands.” (John 20:27a)

In 1992, the lawyers Barry Scheck and Peter Neufeld founded the Innocence Project. Its goal was to overturn the convictions of people who were wrongfully convicted of crimes. But being released from jail after decades doesn’t mean the transition to normal life is easy. The process of restoration is long; there are many fears and other personal challenges that need to be overcome. There are often times in our life when we need to be restored also. The Bible is also full of stories of restoration and they give us insight into the God who restores.
Apostle Thomas is often mischaracterized as “Doubting Thomas.” Yet, his suspicion is common to all people. Most of us would say the same to the risen Lord because the resurrection stands in opposition to the natural fate of humans. While Thomas was doubtful, Jesus Christ specifically came to him. Doubt separated Thomas from the other disciples and isolated him from God. Yet, God is willing to restore him. Thomas also comes to accept the reality of the situation. God desires to bring restoration; he does not leave a “Doubting Thomas.” Instead, God re-commissions and re-energizes Thomas. We know him today as the “Apostle to India” and the Christian community in Kerala is living testimony of that restoration. Restoration is the greatest theme in the Bible. Through Jesus Christ, God the Father is working restoration throughout creation and in the lives of his people today. Let us realize that Jesus Christ is calling out to us also, “Do not doubt but believe.”

                                           PRAYER
: Blessed Savior, in the midst of turmoil and confusion, draw us closer to you and restore us. Let the glory that we once beheld be renewed in us that your glory may shine forth in this world. Amen.
                                  THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
 One believing sight of [Jesus] will do more to restore peace to the conscience, and life to our graces, than all our own lamentations and resolutions. (John Newton, Hymn-writer)
                      
                                       Rev. Jeswin John
                           Vicar, St. John’s MTC Michigan

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