My bible study's focus this morning was on Thomas, of "doubting Thomas" fame, you know, the one who wouldn't believe Jesus was alive until he himself touched Him. When that event did occur, Jesus said, 'blessed are those who believe without seeing me". That would be us.
Thomas kinda gets a bad rap. I think he was confused AND courageous. He had some strong feelings, doubts and questions. He was actively seeking an explanation. He had the courage to notice and name what he was feeling and speak his doubts. Why? He wanted the truth. His doubts lead him to seek. His doubts caused him to think (Lazarus was resurrected, Jesus said alot about death and resurrection, what does this mean?) He knew Jesus, but this part (the cross and empty grave and an alive Jesus) was new. What does all this mean?
Then the bible study drops this line: "Real doubt searches for the light, unbelief is content in darkness." Woa!
Maybe doubt or being a doubter is not all that bad. It moves us to action to seek the Truth. What's really bad is unbelief, hang your head and give up unbelief. We stay stuck there. We stay in darkness there. I don't know about you but I'd rather have doubts and big questions and be seeking the truth than not believe, give up and miss out on abundant life.
Doubt vs. Unbelief, Action vs. Inaction, Seeking vs. Stuck. I choose doubt and active seeking of the Truth. Unbelief no more.
Robert Bolden