Many signs and wonders were done among the people at the hands of the apostles. What signs and wonders are we performing for others to see and to become believers? We don’t need to perform miracles to be a witness to Jesus, but we do need to be faithful even when we are scared or intimidated by our friends or those around us.
John’s vision which forms the book of revelations begins with seeing Jesus in heaven. He is told, “do not be afraid.” Jesus calls each of us to be his witnesses and to boldly proclaim the truth even if it means exile from our homes, our families, our jobs, our country. Many around the world to this day suffer the same treatment as John. How willing are we to follow their example in living our lives worthy of being called Jesus’ disciples?
In today’s Gospel we hear of Jesus visiting his disciples to support them. He also provides them with part of their mission, to forgive sins, just as Jesus had done. How quick are we to forgive the sins of those who have harmed us, hurt us, enraged us, ridiculed us, made fun of us, laughed at us, scorned us, disowned us? Like Thomas we need to be honest, that such forgiveness is not easy to accept or to give. But as the “Lord’s Prayer” says, “as we forgive those who have trespassed against us.” If we cannot forgive, neither will we be forgiven – a thought that should give us all a pause for thought.
Countenance of God 