Today’s story of Jesus appearing to his disciples after the resurrection is often used as a cautionary tale for those may doubt the truth about Jesus. We label this disciple “The Doubting Thomas” as if that were a bad thing. We do little to try to understand what is behind this story.

We are beginning a new series this morning to talk about doubt and what questioning our faith does for us. We will re-visit three familiar gospel stories over the next three weeks, in an effort to strengthen our faith in the resurrected Christ. In these weeks just after Easter, it is important that we find ways to make the stories relevant to our context and that we maintain the excitement of this miracle.

I have said before that being a follower of Jesus in 21st Century America is not an easy task. Questions and doubt are inevitable. We must not be ashamed of our questions and we must not be afraid to ask them. I invite you to spend some time with us over the next few weeks exploring your own questions and seeking thoughtful answers.

As we take this journey together, I pray that we will all find out where doubt leads each one of us.