COTR Magazine June 2013 | Page 16

ThomasfrownedandshookofMathew .

“ UnlesIseinhishandtheprintofthenails , andplacemyfingerinthemarksof thenails , andplacemyhandinhisside , Iwilnotbelieve ,” Thomasannounced . The facesofthedisciplesfel , andtheywalkedslowlybacktodiferentcornersoftheroom .

Themateronlycameupafewtimesinthenexteightdays , andeachtimeitwas endedwitharefusaltosubmitbyThomas . Bytheeightday , thediscipleshadalbut givenup . Astheysatmiserablyinthedarkroom , Johnsuddenlygasped . Headsspunto thedirectionhewasstaring , andthenaleyeslockedinplace . TherewasJesus , standing intheroom eventhoughthedoorswerebarred , gazingateachofthem inturn .

“ Peacebewithyou ,” Hesaid . Hiswordsranlikeasoftstream throughtheroom , causingthedisciplesshoulders ’ todropinperfectserenity .

JesuscaughtThomas ’ eye . HisbiterswetsmilewarmedThomas ’ heart ." Put yourfingerhere , andsemyhands ; andputoutyourhand , andplaceitinmyside ; do notbefaithles , butbelieving ."

Thomasreachedout , hishandshaking . Jesusgraspedhishandandplaceditineach ofHiswounds . Trembling , Thomasheldhishandandknelt .“ MyLordandmyGod !” hewhispered .

JesusplacedahandonThomas ." Haveyoubelievedbecauseyouhavesenme ? Blesedarethosewhohavenotsenandyetbelieve ."

Thomasfeltafireenterhim . HeliftedhisheadandgazedintoJesus ’ eyes . Yes , he thought , IbelievedinyoubecauseIsaw . Butnotanymore . NolongerwilIdoubt .

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