(Also known as Low Sunday)
The name Low Sunday has no theological implications. It simply means, as it were, back to normal. after all the events we remembered a week ago. We can pause, however, to reflect on one of the post-resurrection appearances of Jesus.
‘Doubting’ Thomas. Fancy being known to posterity by this name, when in fact he was the one who expressed his belief in the divinity of Christ! But it is, at the same time, an encouragement for us when we have doubts. Here is his story:
But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, ‘We have seen the Lord.’ But he said to them, ‘Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe.’
A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you.’ Then he said to Thomas, ‘Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe.’ Thomas answered him, ‘My Lord and my God!’
John 20:24-28.
We have now entered another period of forty days between Easter and the Ascension which is on Thursday 21st May, followed quickly by Whit Sunday on 31st May. These are the days on which we remember Jesus’ Ascension to heaven and the gift of the Holy Spirit – see
https://www.gotquestions.org/Ascension-Day.html
More on these two festivals on Sunday 17th May and the following two Sundays. Meanwhile, perhaps we could pray:
Lord Jesus Christ, you call us to serve one another as you served your people.
We thank you for your example
and we thank you for those who give of themselves in your service.
May we be inspired to act, witness and love,
that through us your world may be transformed.
We ask it for your name’s sake. Amen.