Amen Sister Dorine and Pastor Sean. If we want peace that passeth all understanding, we need to behold our Savior hanging on the cross. Then, we shall understand, then we shall remember all He has done for us. Grace is more than a word, it is the power that transforms sinners (us) into saints. We may not see we are transformed, for we know ourselves. But, others will see a difference between those who love Jesus supremely and those who do not. The peace Jesus gives cannot be obtained any other way other than a full heart surrender of self to Him.
As we labor with others, we are given a lesson today we need to remember. Reveal grace to those who do not deserve it and it will work towards breaking down the barriers set up to defend self. Point the sinner to Christ and His Word. Help the unrepentant sinner to know God. That is our only hope to reach the world. We all need Jesus. We cannot believe with saving faith until we know God as it is our privilege to know Him.
Many who are given to doubt excuse themselves by saying that if they had the evidence which Thomas had from his companions, they would believe. They do not realize that they have not only that evidence, but much more. Many who, like Thomas, wait for all cause of doubt to be removed, will never realize their desire. They gradually become confirmed in unbelief. Those who educate themselves to look on the dark side, and murmur and complain, know not what they do. They are sowing the seeds of doubt, and they will have a harvest of doubt to reap. At a time when faith and confidence are most essential, many will thus find themselves powerless to hope and believe.
In His treatment of Thomas, Jesus gave a lesson for His followers. His example shows how we should treat those whose faith is weak, and who make their doubts prominent. Jesus did not overwhelm Thomas with reproach, nor did He enter into controversy with him. He revealed Himself to the doubting one. Thomas had been most unreasonable in dictating the conditions of his faith, but Jesus, by His generous love and consideration, broke down all the barriers. Unbelief is seldom overcome by controversy. It is rather put upon self-defense, and finds new support and excuse. But let Jesus, in His love and mercy, be revealed as the crucified Saviour, and from many once unwilling lips will be heard the acknowledgment of Thomas, "My Lord and my God."