In today's readings, we learn about two kinds of people: those early followers of Christ who changed their entire life routine to follow Jesus, and the apostle, Thomas. Thomas lived with Jesus, knew him well, witnessed His miracles, and yet, for a moment, still doubted that Jesus rose and wanted proof that He was actually alive.  Thomas's initial response can be seen as an example of today's modern world. The Catholic faith is always being questioned in the media and doubted, demanding proof of God's existence. We too, as Christians, sometimes fail to accept God as He is and instead put ultimatums on our own relationship with God. "God, if you do this for me, then I will" ... similar to what Thomas says in the Gospel, "Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands and put my finger into the nail marks and put my hand into his side, I will not believe." (John 20:25)

Yet, in the first reading from Acts, we hear about the many people that heard of Christ's sacrifice, and even without knowing Him in the flesh, they gave up all they had and completely devoted themselves to His teachings and embraced their Christian life. They shared meals, spent time learning about their faith on a deeper level, prayed, and joined in "breaking bread in their homes. They ate their meals with exultation and sincerity of heart, praising God and enjoying favor with all people." (Acts 2:42-47)

They knew in their hearts the truth of God's unconditional love for them. They knew their faith deep in their souls and did not need proof of God to dedicate their life and trust to Jesus. 

I often ask myself, who am I being today in my faith? A Doubting Thomas who demands God to answer my prayers the way I want/think they should be answered? Or, am I like the early followers who trusted God in all things and let Him lead their life? God's plan for us is far better than any plan we have for ourselves, so why do we struggle so much to give up control of our lives and put it in God's hands? 

I pray we can all be more like the followers of Christ and devote each day to learning more about our faith and growing in a deeper relationship with God, while rejoicing that He sacrificed so that we may be saved from our sins.  May we not be a Doubting -- or Demanding -- Thomas!

--Charlene Sippel
Send Us Forth are reflections written by St. Matthew parishioners and friends.