I love Thomas. I always feel the need to defend him because we identify him by his worst moment, “Doubting Thomas.” We don’t think about the brave moments before today’s text or after today’s text. We only think about this moment. As someone who has struggled with doubt at times, I resonate with Thomas. But today, he experiences Jesus. And Jesus says, stop doubting and believe. Remember that experience and believe. That’s good for us today as well. We need to remember when we experienced Jesus. Hold on to that moment. And believe! Today, may we remember what God has done. May we stop doubting and believe!

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Good morning! It’s great to be with you on this Monday morning, just nine days from Christmas. If you haven’t wrapped up your shopping yet, you might want to head to the mall soon—trust me, I need to follow my own advice!

Thomas, who had once been brave enough to say, “Let us go and die with Jesus” (John 11:16), is now remembered for his doubt. He wanted proof—a chance to see and touch Jesus’ wounds before he could believe. Considering the circumstances, his reaction is understandable. It’s hard to imagine the shock of being told someone you saw die is alive again.

When Jesus appeared again, he didn’t rebuke Thomas harshly but invited him to touch and believe. Thomas’ response, “My Lord and my God,” is one of the most profound confessions of faith in the Bible. Jesus then says, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed,” which speaks directly to us today.

Many of us, like Thomas, crave evidence or answers. We want certainty before we trust. But faith often requires stepping out without all the answers. Each of us, if we’re honest, has experienced moments when Jesus showed up—through prayer, scripture, worship, or even life events. Those moments are our reminders to stop doubting and believe.

For those of us prone to overthinking or needing proof, let’s reflect on when we’ve encountered Jesus. Recall his faithfulness, his answers to prayer, and his presence in our lives. He’s shown up before, and he will again.

Today, hold fast to your faith. Believe in the One who overcame death and continues to move in your life.

Thanks for joining me today. Have a wonderful rest of your day!