Recently our work group was given a demonstration of a product from a vendor.  While the session showed many solutions that appeared to be exactly what we were looking for, I found myself asking details as to the exact steps needed to create what we were seeing to confirm that we had the required workforce and expertise to achieve the same results.  While asking these questions I felt the moniker of “Doubting Thomas” which has been prescribed to me in the past for asking for such proof, and for being my namesake was warranted.

While doubt and diligence are prudent in making purchases for work or home, I have found that doubt can hold me back in growing my faith and relationships with others.  It is easy to doubt individuals and to suspect there are underlying motives, especially when perceived or actual slights have occurred in the past.  How much better could these relationships and interactions be if they are approached with trust and the assumption of positive intent from the other person?

Likewise, I have found my faith can often ebb and flow, with the low points filled with a disconnection from God that seemingly can be filled only with absolute, tangible proof that God is there.  Much like Thomas seeking to see and feel the wounds of Christ as proof of His rising, I also seek such affirmation, calling out to God for proof or a sign that God hears me.  It is at these times that Christ’s call to faith sustains me and it is well to remember His words ‘blessed are those who have not seen and believed.”

So, on this Divine Mercy Sunday, may we find ourselves placing complete trust and faith in God, accepting his love and mercy unconditionally.  May we also live and proclaim our faith freely and boldly in both words and actions, going forth like the Apostles who Christ sent out to spread the Gospel.