Don't doubt like Thomas

Jesus, help me remember that monsters and lucky numbers aren't real, but you are! Amen.

After Jesus died, the Apostles stayed in a room to talk about Him. They locked the door, but suddenly, Jesus came in anyway! "Peace be with you," He said, and He gave them the power to forgive sins. One Apostle, Thomas, wasn't there -- and he didn't believe they saw Jesus. But a week later, Jesus came back when Thomas was there. "Thomas," He said, "believe in me." And Thomas did.

Kids believe in plenty of things that make most grownups shake their heads. You might think a monster lives in your closet; you might believe the number 13 is unlucky. It takes an adult to remind you that there's no proof these things are true.

This week's Gospel (John 20:19-31) is about proof -- proof that Jesus really died on Good Friday and came back three days later, on Easter. When the Apostles saw Jesus, Thomas was the only one who wasn't there, so he didn't believe Jesus was really alive again.

Thomas wanted proof before he believed Jesus was back -- and Thomas was so firm about that, some people still call a person who doesn't believe them a "doubting Thomas!"

When you're firm about believing in something that isn't there, adults tell you you're wrong: There's no such thing as monsters, and numbers aren't good or bad -- they're just numbers.

But no one can tell us not to believe in Jesus. When Thomas wanted proof Jesus was alive, Jesus gave it to him by coming back again! And in case there was any doubt left, He told Thomas to believe in Him. When Jesus says something, that's proof enough for us!