2nd Sunday of Easter
Revelers in the empty tomb,
This is one of my all-time favorite paintings. It is one of the most famous pieces done by the Italian Baroque artist Caravaggio. He completed the first version of it in 1601. The painting is entitled "The Incredulity [Disbelief] of Saint Thomas" and it depicts the account which we will hear this Sunday--the same account we always hear on the Sunday after Easter. Some even credit this painting and its title with making the phrase "Doubting Thomas" famous--more so than the Gospel account itself.
The picture shows the disciple Thomas doing what he said was necessary if he was going to believe Jesus had in fact risen from the dead: “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” (Jn 20:25). I always feel bad for Thomas when we hear this account each year. Every single one of us has made a similar ultimatum to God. Thankfully, none of ours are recorded and preserved in Scripture. I'm not justifying what Thomas said or did but I absolutely get it. Perhaps you do too.
I'm not going to give too much away since I'll be preaching on this text Sunday, but this story much like the painting, usually focuses on Thomas. It is the story of Thomas refusing to believe. A more fitting focus, however, is on the patient grace of Jesus. The word of the women and the other disciples, "We have seen the Lord!" should have been enough for Thomas. Jesus didn't need to show up again and He certainly didn't need to give Thomas everything he demanded from Jesus. But a week later, there's Jesus.
I'm fond of saying, "Easter changes everything!" And it certainly does. But it doesn't change Jesus. He still comes after, seeks, patiently pursues, lovingly draws near you and me and a world of sinners. This Sunday will be no different. Come meet your risen Lord and receive what only He can give: "Peace be with you!"
God bless your weekend in His name and with His grace!
In Christ,
Pastor Bater