passionate
"Thomas (the name means 'Twin') was absent when Jesus came." —John 20:24
Look at how Jesus dealt with Thomas. Jesus told Thomas He was glad Lazarus was dead so Thomas and the other apostles might come to believe (Jn 11:15). Jesus told Thomas He was "the Way, and the Truth, and the Life" (Jn 14:6). Thomas still did not understand. Finally, the risen Jesus humiliated Himself before Thomas and said: " 'Take your finger and examine My hands. Put your hand into My side. Do not persist in your unbelief, but believe!' Thomas said in response, 'My Lord and my God!' " (Jn 20:27-28)
How Jesus persisted in leading Thomas to the supreme act of faith, acknowledging Jesus as Lord and God! You are Thomas' spiritual twin (Jn 20:24). You have been strangers and aliens to the Lord's love (Eph 2:19).
Just as with Thomas, the Lord is pursuing you — gently, relentlessly pursuing you in love. Let the Hound of heaven catch you. Instead of coldness and alienation, respond as in the days of your youth (Hos 2:17). Exclaim "my Lord and my God!" Throw yourself at Jesus' feet. Don't worry about what others will say. Respond to "passioned" love with passionate love.
Prayer: Jesus, You abandoned Your life for me. I abandon my life to You.
Promise: "You form a building which rises on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the Capstone." —Eph 2:20
Praise: "My Lord and my God!" (Jn 20:28)
Reference: (Order one of these tape series to assist you reading the Bible daily and then exclaim "My Lord and my God!" Overview of the Bible is six audio tapes starting with AV 10A-1 or three video tapes starting with V-10A. 15-minute Bible Teaching - New Testament is forty audio tapes starting with #700. An Introduction to each Book of the Bible is 32 audio tapes starting with AV 21-1 or 17 video tapes starting with V-21.)
Rescript: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, January 22, 2007
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