April 3, Second Sunday of Easter: John 20:19-31

Outside the Church of All Nations in the Garden of Gethsemane, there is a sign that reads, “Please: no explanations in the church.” It is meant as a warning to the hundreds of tour groups who pass through the sacred space every day. But it reminds me of something a cranky old minister once said to my mother during her confirmation class: “The church is no place for questions, young lady!”

Anyone who has felt the sting of such a rebuke rejoices on the Second Sunday of Easter, when we read the story of Thomas, the patron saint of doubters. John’s Gospel tells us that the disciples are gathered in a room late on Easter Sunday, and the mood is bleak. Every plan and hope for the future rested with Jesus, and now he is dead. There are incredible stories of a resurrection, but the disciples remain unconvinced. How can it be?

Then, without warning, Jesus appears in their midst. “Peace be with you,” he says, and he shows them his hands. The disciples recognize Jesus by his words and his wounds, and they rejoice: The Lord is alive; all is not lost!