Thomas Epithets
A.I. came through for me this week. I just typed into my browser a description of what I was looking for and “epithets” popped right up. In short, an epithet is a descriptive word or phrase added after a name that provides additional information about, or characteristics of, that person.
During my childhood, our oldest sibling was the only one of the six of us who merited an epithet. We often referred to him, but not to his face, as Terrible Tom, Tom the Teaser, Thomas the Tormentor. My dad sometimes created bedtime stories, especially for my two youngest brothers, where brother Tom was cast as a villain of sorts. Tom did not mind these tales told by our dad. I believe he enjoyed them as much as the rest of us. I think he took pride in his starring role, while we younger siblings felt vindicated at somehow triumphing over Tom the Tormentor by the end of the story.
As adult siblings, we can look back on those younger days and realize our relationships have (thankfully!) changed. While we sometimes felt persecuted by Tom as children, we also admired and looked up to him. In my adult relationship with brother Tom today, I find so much to admire, respect, and appreciate. This reminds me of the duality of human nature. We are capable of housing both the good and the not-so-good in our words and actions.
This week, I have found myself unpacking last Sunday’s Gospel. The Doubting Thomas scripture reading has always fascinated me and gives rise to lots of questions. Why was Thomas the only one absent when Jesus first appeared to the others who were locked in a room “for fear of the Jews”? Perhaps he was the only one brave enough after Jesus’ crucifixion to go out in public, to procure food, to check on family members, to bring back news? Was he driving the others crazy with his teasing, so they designated Thomas as errand runner?! Did Thomas have a reputation as a skeptic? Why indeed could Thomas not accept the reports of others, his friends, that Jesus had returned from the dead? Did he have trust issues? Did it involve hurt feelings and resentment that his Lord, the risen Jesus, chose to appear to the others when Thomas was not present?
Just as the life of the apostle Thomas was changed after an encounter with the Risen Lord and his strong declaration of faith, so have my relationships with the Jesus and others evolved over the years. This serves as a reminder to ask myself how, when, and through whom is God calling me to a closer relationship with him? Where do I need to open my eyes of faith and set aside skepticism? Am I receptive to hearing Jesus speak to my heart? Am I open to transformation by reaching out when He extends His hand?
During this beautiful season of new life and new growth may we lay aside our doubts and embrace our faith anew in the Risen Lord.
