Divine Mercy Sunday (“A”)
Q. 630: Thomas was called Didymas, which means “the twin.” It is a literal translation of the Hebrew into Greek. Do we know the identity of his twin brother or sister? (Return to INDEX page of "Didja Know?" series)
May 1, 2011
A. 630: Remember, we are still in John’s gospel, which means that every word and phrase has a special meaning for John and his community. Some folks speculate that it is simply to indicate to those in the Thomastic community the identity of the apostle. Other scholars, however, who recognize author John’s penchant for deeper meaning and significance, offer this suggestion: could it be that the “twin” is you and me, the reader?
Author John knows that this cornerstone of our faith—the Resurrection—has been the most difficult point for folks in his time to accept in order to come to full belief in Jesus as the Christ, the Son of God. So this true story fits very nicely into his narrative. It shows that even an Apostle, one who had been in Jesus presence for maybe three years, could experience doubt. Just like all catechumens, Thomas certainly wants to believe; but gosh it would be so much easier if he had real, physical proof.
Jesus grants Thomas his wish, because he knew Thomas was neither a cynic nor a skeptic, but someone seeking the truth. So he shows him his hands and side. Thomas instantly believes. Jesus takes that opportunity to commend Thomas for his renewed faith; but he commends even more strongly the faith of those who will believe based on the eye-witness stories of those who have actually seen him.
There is the point author John is making. It is time to believe, based on the truth handed down by the Apostles and their successors, the bishops. It is the duty of our Catholic bishops to preserve this Tradition, and keep it free from error. If you believe, then the peace that comes with belief in Jesus is yours: “Blessed are you who have not seen but have come to believe.”
KNOW YOUR CATECHISM! The gospels were written by men who were among the first to have the faith and wanted to share it with others. What is written was set down there “so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in his name” (CCC 515, 514). He IS Risen!
Deacon Paul Rooney
Mary Our Queen Parish, Omaha
(Go back to Deacon Paul's HOME PAGE)
