Week of April 6, 2008

The Olive Branch	Fr. Seamus Murtagh, Pastor
WE HAVE SEEN THE LORD               Where Thomas was we do not know when Jesus appeared to the other ten.  Earlier in the Gospel we see him being ready to die with Jesus, “Let us also go to die with him.”  There is nothing half hearted about this commitment.  Now, throughout a full eight days, he withstands the testimony of his brother disciples and the entreaties of the women who were the first witnesses.  “Unless I see etc.”, he insists on first hand evidence.  Thomas is both praised for his faith and faulted for lack of faith by a variety of commentators.  At least the story lends further credence to the Resurrection.               Non-believers probably appreciate Thomas’ insistence on proof, but proof and faith are not compatible.  We are reminded here of Mother Theresa’s statement, “I never had certitude, I never had clarity, I only have trust.”  It is true there is a rational dimension to faith but ultimately it comes down to trust, the letter to the Hebrews makes the same case, “Faith is confident assurance concerning what we hope for and conviction about things we do not see.”  It is being certain about the uncertain.              Two people in love with each other, whose love is true, pure, and mutual journey into oneness, a deep intimate belonging.  This love can’t be measured, it can’t be proven, and yet it transforms everything it touches.  So it is with faith, a giving over to God, an intimate belonging that transforms and is beyond measure or proof, and so “Blessed are they who have not seen but believe.”   Christ's Peace, Rev. Seamus Murtagh, Pastor