Yesterday, on Resurrection Day, my Sunday School class discussed "Doubting Thomas". I don't know who gave him that name; I rather admire the fellow. True, he was reproved by Jesus, but we learn from reproof. Thomas was a seeker. That didn't make him less of a follower. He just had a great need to understand. After he requested to see Jesus' nailscars, he went on to be there when Jesus ascended and was present on the day of Pentecost to receive his portion of blessing. I believe Thomas was made stronger by his desire to understand by asking questions. His lessons were worthy of mentioning in the Word.
I have an affinity with Thomas. I like to ask questions. My mother said I asked more questions than her other two daughters when I was approaching marriage and leaving home. I have embarrassed my family on more than one occasion by my curiosity. Some people like to read "how to" books. I prefer to talk to the source.
My only son inherited my curiosity. He and I spent years asking and answering. He asked; I tried to answer. I kind of missed it when he outgrew my answers! But I find it amusing how we keep in touch by texting. We ask questions:) That's who we are!
I love the curious kid! He drives his parents crazy but he's a learner! He generally retains it and educates himself with it! One quote says it all: "In children, seeking explanations is as deeply rooted a drive as seeking food or water!"
I like that it is recorded in the Bible of the Patriots who questioned God. Abraham found it questionable that he was chosen to sire a baby by his barren wife who was past her child bearing years. Again, God chided him, but still used him. Abraham learned well from his reproof. Moses questioned God in choosing someone as handicapped as him for leading such a mammoth group of people out of bondage. God didn't back down but convinced Moses and used him. Joseph questioned that God would have Mary carry the Messiah; he had to be convinced by stronger measures!
Scientists and explorers have always made discoveries by their curiosity. It's the way God designed us as humans.
I have accompanied a good many school groups to historical sights and museums with educational guides. They always ask the children for questions. I admire the kids who have the nerve to ask them! Sometimes, it makes them appear unlearned or stupid. But, in reality, they are asking the questions that nobody else knows either. They just won't speak up.
I kind of think of Thomas as this kind of person. He was the one who asked the question about Christ leaving and where was he going? He was only voicing what the other disciples didn't understand either. I find it noteworthy that Thomas was mentioned as the one who was honestly seeking to understand. We have proof that he was sincere and strong in his discipleship when he was in the group with Jesus when Lazarus died and Jesus wanted to go to Bethany. Most of the disciples didn't want to go. They were afraid. Thomas said, "Let us go with him that we may die with him!" A true follower of Jesus!
It's ok to ask.....Jesus never hesitated to answer questions of the seekers! He may even reprove us but he knows we are learning! Solomon said: "Reproofs of instruction are the way of life."
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