17 May 2019
Friday of the Fourth Week of Easter
Thomas’ doubts are good. Thomas doubts and questions because he sees the limits of his own knowledge. When Jesus says, “where I am going you know the way,” Thomas points out “Master, we do not know where you are going; how can we know the way?” (Jn. 14:4, 5) Note carefully his question: he does not challenge Jesus, but simply points out his own lack of knowledge—he does not know where Jesus is going. His doubts and questions invite Jesus to come and increase his knowledge and love of God.
Had Thomas been silent, he and the other apostles would have been deprived of what Jesus said next: “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (Jn. 14:6). How much are we deprived of by not being honest with God about our questions? We do not need to challenge God’s authority or promises. All we need to do is admit openly “I do not have this knowledge.” When we acknowledge our weaknesses and limits before the Lord, He will make up the difference, sometimes with something even more wonderful than we could imagine.