Daily Devotions
Today’s Reading: John 20:19-31 & Psalm 56
[Thomas said,]“Unless I see the nail marks in His hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe it.” John 20:25
Thomas demanded proof. A week later, our Lord quoted his demands right back: “Put your finger here; see My hands. Reach out your hand and put it into My side” (John 20:27). These, the very hands nailed on the cross the first Good Friday—for Thomas and for us! This, the very side pierced with the sword for Thomas—and for us!
Our Lord willingly condescended to the demands of just one of His followers. Why? Thomas had built a barrier, yet Jesus loved him. Like Thomas, we often build barriers between ourselves and the blessings God has for us. We make our belief and trust dependent upon our own preconceived notions and unreasonable demands. All too often we’re tempted to suggest that it would be easier to believe and to trust if only …
Yes, there’s Thomas’ way—the demanding way. And then there’s the better way to faith, to belief, to trust in Christ—take the apostles, the evangelists, the prophets, who wrote by inspiration of the Holy Spirit, at their Word—His Word. God’s Word is His gift to us. Why place demands on the Giver or His gift? Telling God we will accept His Word only if we understand it, or only if we feel worthy of His message, insults and offends the Giver and His graciousness.
Yes, Jesus Christ holds out a better way: “Because you have seen Me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” (John 20:29).
Prayer
Heavenly Father, who has given us Your Word so we may be wise unto salvation through faith in Christ Jesus, open our hearts and minds to humbly and thankfully accept the suffering, death, and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, in whose name we pray. Amen.
Response
On this day—Good Friday—bring before your Lord any barriers you find between yourself and His Word.