Francis 'Jide MAKINWA

 

"As we practice our faith, doubt is allowed. However, it should move us closer to God. It is noteworthy that Apostle Thomas, in the gospel reading of the day (John 20:19-31), believed, lost faith, and then return to even greater faith." This message was delivered by Rev. Fr. Stephen Kolawole on Divine Mercy Sunday at St. Benedict Catholic Cathedral, Osogbo, Osun State.

 The priest said, through Thomas' action, Jesus extended blessedness to us all who have not seen Him yet but believe. Blessedness, however, is not free as we need to clear our doubts constantly, calm our fears, trust more and remain in Him, he said.

   Fr. Kolawole said Jesus is reminding us that our faith should not be based on what we see alone, or on our feelings, or understanding. Rather, it should be based on Him, and the teaching of His Church. This is because whatever the Church teaches is revealed by Christ through the Holy Spirit; "These are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in his name." (John 20:31) and "for we walk by faith, not by sight." (2 Corinthians 5:7)

 He explained further that the locked door of our hearts, that is, our guilt, our past, or our anxieties are no obstacles for Jesus. When the mercy of God locates us, we are able to feel its transformative power. This power turns fear into courage, and doubt into a confession of faith.

  At the end, Fr. Kolawole prayed that God would help us to see His mercy in our wounds, and give us courage to believe even when we do not see.