Embodied HopeSample

Show Me Proof

Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side . . .” (v. 27)

My wife was born in Missouri, the “Show-Me” state. Although the meaning of this nickname has been disputed, Missourians today claim it as a part of their state character. They need to see the proof before they will believe!

Thomas could very well be labeled the “Show-Me” disciple. When the disciples report that they have seen the risen Lord, Thomas wants proof. Jesus doesn’t condemn Thomas for his skepticism. Rather, he shows Thomas the marks on his hands and side. Thomas moves from doubt to praise: “My Lord and my God!” Jesus says to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” (vv. 28-29).

While we don’t get to experience Jesus’s resurrected presence in the same way Thomas did, Jesus continues to show himself today. How? Through the Holy Spirit, in his body made visible in the church. We meet Christ in the Word and sacraments, and in God’s people when we embody his truth and love. When we embody his truth and love, the world then sees Christ. In other words, the church is called to be the proof that Jesus is alive! So here’s the question: When a doubting and skeptical world comes into contact with the church today, does it see evidence of the living Jesus?

As you pray, ask Christ to make his presence visible through the church’s faithful witness.