We hear Thomas’ declaration of faith, “My Lord, and my God!” This is a heart-to-heart experience of Jesus’ divinity, something that Thomas will never forget. He will live from that joy and peace indelibly etched in his being. Jesus tells us that even though we have not experienced him in the flesh, we will have even more extraordinary experiences of God - “Happy are those who have not seen and
yet believe.” (John 20:29). We believe because we experience Jesus within the depths of our hearts.
What helps seek and receive those moments of heart-to-heart connection? As with any relationship, we need to meet each other, listen and talk, offer gifts, walk together, respond to the wishes of the other in love, share our lives, and treat them as we would like to be treated. Love is only love when it is given away. In the
emptying is space to receive again and again. Jesus shows us how in his life, death and resurrection. In the Gospel, we see how Jesus always seeks God’s guidance and love in the Spirit. The mutuality of love of the Holy Trinity is the model for us to follow.
John assures us that he has written the Gospel so that “believing in him, you may have life through his name.”(John 20:31). This life is more than just being alive. It
is the depth of love, peace and joy that we see the disciples experience here. This is the life of connection, divine union, joy and peace engraved on our hearts forever. This life empowers and inspires us to reach out to all of God’s creation in love and seek the good of others. It is a life of compassion and forgiveness, justice and joy. This is resurrection life that Jesus has already brought!
How will you live resurrection
life now with the hope of the fullness to come?
Will you give God space to come ever more deeply into your heart?
What doors will you need to open?
“I come with my power, that I might carry you and all your burdens;
with my grace, to touch your heart and transform your life,
and my peace I give to still your soul.”
(‘I Thirst For You’ excerpt, attributed to St Teresa of Calcutta)
Reflections by Kath Knowles
