24 Now Thomas (called Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. 29 Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." John 20:24,29 (NIV)
Resolve is defined as “commitment, boldness, and courage.”
Resolve is easy to have while things are going well and hard to come by when circumstances radically change. Courage quickly diminishes when you or your family’s life is in danger. Questions and denial and doubt fill your mind.
Thomas wasn’t the only one to doubt. How would you like to be labeled with a disparaging nickname like “Doubting Thomas” or “Lazy Susan”? My wife Debbie is anything but a “Downer” Like many in that day, Thomas had two names: “Thomas” is Aramaic, and “Didymus” is Greek (John 20:24). They both mean “twin.”
It could mean Thomas literally had a twin. Or it could refer to his double minded faith struggle. Thomas was obviously struggling with doubt.
When Jesus was arrested, tried, and crucified, it seemed that in one sweeping moment, the disciples lost all their resolve. What happened?
I believe their fear and lack of courage surprised even themselves.
We tend to think highly of ourselves. We imagine scenarios where we face our weaknesses and our oppressors, and we imagine ourselves saying just the right words at just the right time. We imagine ourselves being bold, courageous maybe even heroic. But when reality squeezes us we don’t know what is going to come out.
After the crucifixion all of the disciples with the exception of John lost all their resolve. Three days later Jesus followers wrestled with the loss of their friend and leader, and wild rumors spread, did someone steal the body? Or even wilder…was he alive? Was it true? What were they to do next?
In the moment of their confusion and weakness, they cowered together behind locked doors. They were afraid of the religious leaders who conspired against Jesus. They were afraid of the Roman soldiers who put Jesus to death. It was then and there, in their uncertainty, that Jesus showed up!
What is it that has you afraid, confused, filled with doubt. Fear not! Call upon the name above all names… Jesus. Who still shows up when we need.
Your pastor and partner in ministry,
Kyle
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