In today’s reading, Romano Guardini, explores the blessing expressed by Christ in His post-resurrection encounter with Thomas. Jesus gives Thomas the proof he had asked for and then pronounces blessing on those “who have not seen and believe.” I think Guardini draws to narrow of a line between who is and is not blessed. He holds that Thomas just got what he asked for, yet the blessing was for those who would not get the benefit of seeing Jesus’ nail-scarred hands for themselves. I would maintain that the proof is Thomas’ blessing, and that Christ is emphasizing that His blessing extends beyond what Thomas received.
However, Guadini’s keen insight on seeing Jesus through the supposed mundane, day in and day out of living is very helpful. “And those are called blessed who make the effort to remain open hearted.” O, that our hearts would be open to the surprise presence of Christ in the midst of our normal days. May we pray to see Christ as we seek Him in our routine. Guardini ends with, “Blessed are those who can see the Lord in all these things!”