Real Hope: Loving Our NeighboursSample

Staying Connected

READ JOHN 20:24–28

Jesus’ resurrection is a defining moment in our faith. As I’ve re-read scriptures about His death and resurrection this year, it was not this life-changing miracle that stood out to me… rather these words in v26 – ‘Eight days later the disciples were together again, and this time Thomas was with them.'

Prior to this verse, all the disciples (except for Thomas) had just seen Jesus and were now celebrating the news with their missing friend. Thomas’ response to this life-changing news…Yeah, na.' Today it would be easy to cancel, unfriend or block Thomas for his lacklustre response… his rejection of this incredible, life-altering fact. This is why ‘Eight days later the disciples were together again...’ leaped out at me… this verse tells us that the disciples kept Thomas with them; he was part of the family, part of the crew – his scepticism included.

They didn’t kick him out, or make him move Bible studies or connect groups. They allowed Thomas the space, grace and time needed for God to reveal His truth to him. When a truth has been revealed to us, we’re excited, we’re passionate and we want everyone to know about it and experience the joy and freedom that the truth brings.

As Jesus was gracious in revealing His truth to us (or the disciples in this case), we need to respect the unique journey Jesus has people on – and then trust He will reveal Himself and His truth to them at the perfect time. Our responsibility to the people we’re in community with is to love them, and to give them space and time and make sure when they exclaim, ‘My Lord and my God’!, as Thomas did, that we can celebrate together.

Written by NATALIE BENNETT