We are an Alleluia People: Trusting the Promise
Day 4: Alleluia in the Struggle
“Unless I see the nail marks… I will not believe.”… Jesus said, “Put your finger here; see my hands… Stop doubting and believe.” Thomas said, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:24–28)
The Resurrection did not erase our struggles or suffering; it transformed it. The Risen Christ still bore the wounds of His crucifixion, a powerful reminder that nothing is impossible or too broken for God to repair. The Resurrection allows us to trust in God’s promise through the struggles, difficulties and doubts.
Thomas struggled to believe, and after what they had witnessed, who wouldn’t. Jesus did not chastise or shame Thomas for his unbelief, his lack of trust, rather He invited Thomas closer.
Jesus met Thomas where Thomas was, and He does the same for each of us.
It is easy to think that having faith means not having doubts, but Thomas’ story reminds us that God is not thwarted by our uncertainty. Faith can grow in the middle of our questions and struggles. Living through those questions and struggles can make our faith stronger and deeper.
Living the Alleluia means trusting that even in our hardest times, the Lord is present calling us closer, inviting us to believe more deeply and gently leading us toward him.
Reflection: Where in my life am I being invited to move from doubt to deeper trust in God?
Prayer: Lord, meet me where I am. Strengthen my faith in the midst of my struggles and help me to trust in Your presence, so that I too will declare: “My Lord and My God!”
Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia, Amen.
Cecilia E. Carroll
Advent Square Director