Doubting Thomas

Today we're going to learn about one of Jesus's disciples named Thomas, who had trouble believing something amazing! This story happens after Jesus rose from the dead on Easter Sunday - what we call Pascha in our Maronite tradition. After Jesus died on the cross and rose again, He appeared to His disciples. They were so excited! But Thomas wasn't there that day. When the other disciples told Thomas, 'We saw Jesus! He's alive!' Thomas said, 'I don't believe you. I need to see Him myself and touch His wounds.' Can anyone tell me how you think Thomas felt when his friends told him this amazing news? That's right - confused and maybe scared! A whole week passed. Then Jesus came again when Thomas was with the group. Jesus said to Thomas, 'Come here. Touch my hands and my side. Stop doubting and believe!' Thomas was amazed! He fell down and said, 'My Lord and my God!' Jesus smiled and said, 'You believe because you have seen me. But blessed are those who believe without seeing me.' What do you think Jesus meant by that? Yes! He was talking about us! We haven't seen Jesus with our eyes, but we can still believe in Him. In our Maronite Church, we celebrate this story because it shows us that even when we have doubts or questions, Jesus is patient with us. He understands when we need help believing. Thomas became a great saint who spread the good news about Jesus! Remember: It's okay to have questions about God. Jesus loves us even when we doubt, and He helps our faith grow stronger.