Don’t Miss A Blessing
But Thomas…was not with them when Jesus came. —John 20:24
Ten of the disciples were meeting in fear behind locked doors, when suddenly the risen Christ shows up in their midst, saying, “Peace be unto you.” He shows them His nail pierced hands and the scar on His side. And the Bible says, “Then were the disciples GLAD, when they saw the Lord.” That is, everyone except Thomas! He missed it all.
Have you ever wondered what Thomas was doing that evening while the other disciples were enjoying fellowship with the risen Christ? Was he home in bed? Was he sick? Was he at work? Was he depressed? Was he at an sporting event? Was he fishing? Whatever the reason, he missed a blessing! He missed the opportunity of being present when Jesus showed up.
That is one reason why I never want to miss a church service. I don’t want to miss a blessing—The blessing of another saint’s testimony… the blessing of being edified from God’s Word… the blessing of receiving God’s provision for what I need spiritually… The blessing of encouragement to stay in the battle for God… The blessing of being a blessing to another brother or sister in Christ… the blessing of seeing a lost person come to Christ for salvation… the blessing of being present in a service when Jesus shows up.
It pays to be present when Jesus shows up. He promises His presence where two or three gather in His Name. Therefore it pays to be at church. Think of the last time you were in church when God really dealt with your heart or blessed you in a special way… Aren’t you glad you didn’t miss it? Think of what you would have missed if you were absent.
I don’t know what other business Thomas had that evening, but if your business makes you miss Jesus you have too much business!