But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name.” vs. 31
John 20:24-31
Those who read the gospel of John are regularly puzzled by his account of Jesus’ ministry and life. Often the details seem exaggerated and many of his stories aren’t even included in Matthew, Mark, or Luke. No wonder some end up identifying with Thomas – in fact doubts are often our regular companions all the way through the book. But at the end John offers clarity. He has been intentional in the way he wrote, wanting only to convince readers that Jesus really is the Messiah. His desire is that people like Thomas, folks who were “out of the room” when Jesus appeared, but who didn’t get a second chance, will “come to believe” and thereby receive life.
His choice of words resonates with the experience of many believers. For one reason or another faith is hard and initially there are a ton of roadblocks. But then stuff happens, objections are less compelling, and bit by bit there are “coming to Jesus” moments of insight. Before long our faith is solid, unshaken by old inconsistencies, and strong enough to take us through every kind of suffering on the Way. Then it will truly be said of us, “Blessed are those who have not seen, and yet have come to believe.”
Thought for the Day: How did I come to believe?
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