Scripture
Our verse for today comes from John 20:27, “Then He said to Thomas, ‘Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand here, and put it into My side. Do not be unbelieving, but believing.’”
Background
You may not have noticed it at the time, but I’m pretty sure that there was a point where Jesus offered you His pierced hands and His punctured side. That is to say, Jesus has more than likely met you at your low point and offered to you consolation and further reason to put your whole trust in Him. The upper room appearance on behalf of Thomas and those who witnessed it was a one-time occurrence, but in many ways Jesus has been re-enacting that event ever since then for those whose faith has been fractured in some way. To be sure, each of us has been in the place where our foundation has been shaken and our way has become fuzzy. Life is not anything if not relentless. But we do not all respond the same way. Some may have begged God for help and relief. Others may have plodded on by sheer will. Some found their fists clinched in anger and resentment while others went numb with disbelief and apathy. But as amazing as God’s redeeming work in your life was when He saved you, He is no less amazing in His love and pursuit of those who seemed to have lost sight of Him. The challenge this second time around, though, is what to do with the feelings that accompany the bottoming out we have experienced.
Application
When we were saved, we went from no God to God, from death to life, so there was little challenge to make that exchange. But now, having descended to the pits with what seems like the assent of our Savior, how do we reconcile the conflict within our heart and mind and emotions? Jesus isn’t going to appear and show you His victorious hands and side again, so how will you hear the sound of His voice in the midst of your circumstances? Will you go to worship when your heart is low? Will the words of Scripture mean anything to you? Will you take that step towards Him because you know He still loves you? Will you believe that He is good even when good things are not happening? Do not be unbelieving, but believing.
Charge
As we seek Him today, believe that Jesus is there for you, and look for Him. Fellowship with believers, read His Word, talk to Him. Experience His hands and His side.
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