John 20:19-31
The first Christians were victims of state terrorism. The sudden arrest and death of Jesus provoked a climate of fear and apprehension among the apostles. They assemble inside a locked room – probably that of the Last Supper. The terror is so great that one apostle, Thomas, is reluctant to approach them even in seclusion. The locks are not only on the doors but on their minds and faith. Jesus breaks through with a powerful witness of love. He gives them power to unlock souls as well as portals.
As one who doubted but then progressed to deep faith, the apostle Thomas stands as a sign of encouragement to all believers. Although we have not “seen” Jesus in the same way as those first disciples, Christians today have personally experienced his presence in their lives, have touched his body through the community of faith, have heard him through God’s Word and received his body through the gift of Eucharist.
– Fr John Conway