This Sunday we remember Thomas coming to a full understanding of the Risen Lord Jesus Christ. It's a special day that brings me back to the value of voicing honest doubts. Thomas was humble enough to tell the other disciples he didn't yet believe. He needed proof. "Unless I see if for myself ..." Eight days after Jesus arose, Thomas had an amazing encounter with the Lord.
I'm reminded of a visit more than 20 years ago to Southern India. In the south-eastern city of Chennai (used to be called Madras) you visit the simple, unadorned tomb of St. Thomas. Having become convinced of the resurrection of his Savior, he traveled eastward. Far away! On the south-west side of India, today, Kerala State, he founded several churches. Some say six or seven congregations. Then he headed east to the region known as Tamil Nadu State. Here Thomas' evangelistic work and leadership training resulted in another six churches being formed. You can visit the place which is said to be where he was stoned for declaring, "Jesus is Lord and God."The words above his tomb are "My Lord and God"
The Church of South India is known world wide. A few days later, I visited a hospital that majors in training nurses for village ministries. Talking to the chief medical doctor at the hospital in that region, I asked her when and how the Gospel came into her life. "Was it your father, or Grandfather, who first heard about Jesus?" I asked.
"Thomas!" was her one word reply as we walked down the path to the large hospital meeting place.
It took me time to go through anyone who had lived in India, and perhaps I knew his name. Then I realized she was speaking about the Disciple Thomas.
"Thomas?" I said, "Thomas!!" I repeated - with something bordering on unbelief!
She proceeded to explain the miracle Thomas performed on her "great - (fifty-times-over-great; her brother has the family chart) - Grandfather" and how he came to faith. An hour later, the graduation service for 100 nurses began. The sun was setting and the golden light of dusk was replaced by the lovely glow of so many happy, young graduates. The legacy of Thomas still alive! That experience left unspoken unspoken questions - and it still does. How has the faith been passed down in such an extraordinary way in this wonderful Indian family? Thank God for Thomas!
This Sunday, as you pray for people of the Middle East and Asia, intercede for people struggling with faith issues, those who know only a little about Jesus, but who have yet to meet the Risen Lord!
And remember, too, that faithful witness is like a seed that germinates with much fruit across generations.
No comments:
Post a Comment