From Doubt To Divine Mercy-Outside The Chapel Season 13 Episode 10

Summary

This podcast explores the life of St. Thomas the Apostle, highlighting his journey from doubt to faith, particularly his transformative mission in India. Known for his initial skepticism, Thomas’s story is one of deep reflection and eventual courageous action. Despite his doubts, Thomas’s commitment to serving God and his willingness to take risks ultimately led to his profound impact on Christianity. The episode also offers a call to action, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own faith journeys and consider where they might need to say ‘yes’ to God. It concludes with a discussion of practical spiritual practices like prayer and lectio divina.

Takeaways

• 😀 Thomas, known as the 'Doubting Thomas,' had a strong, fact-based faith that grew through personal experiences and divine confirmation.
• 😀 Thomas' life story highlights his courageous choice to go to India and spread Christianity, despite initial reluctance and doubt.
• 😀 In India, Thomas was called to build a palace for a king but instead chose to give away all the funds to the poor, showing his deep compassion and selflessness.
• 😀 The king, Abanis, was initially angry with Thomas for not completing the palace, but Thomas explained that the true palace would only be visible after the king’s death, symbolizing the spiritual reward for serving others.
• 😀 Thomas’ story demonstrates the importance of recognizing greater needs, even at personal sacrifice, and how true faith is expressed in action.
• 😀 Despite Thomas' initial hesitation, once he was sure of God's calling, he fully committed, demonstrating the power of a faith that is willing to take risks for God's kingdom.
• 😀 The podcast calls listeners to reflect on their own faith journey, encouraging them to identify areas where they need to say 'yes' to God's call, even if it’s difficult or daunting.
• 😀 The story of Thomas invites us to trust in God's plan for us and to have the courage to act, even when we are uncertain or fearful.
• 😀 The podcast highlights the growth of Christianity in India, crediting Thomas' ministry with the conversion of millions to Christianity in the region.
• 😀 The podcast emphasizes the importance of digital outreach, such as Icon Ministry, in spreading the message of hope and faith to the modern world, and encourages support for these efforts through donations.

Q & A

What was Thomas's initial reaction to going to India, and how did it change?

Thomas initially resisted the idea of going to India, stating that he could not go. However, after having a dream in which a king called him to build a palace, he decided to go. Once there, he started building the palace but shifted focus to helping the poor, giving away the money meant for construction.

What significant action did Thomas take when building the palace in India?

While building the palace in India, Thomas noticed the poor in the area and chose to give away the money that was intended for the construction to help them. This act of charity led to a confrontation with the king, who was angry that the money was spent elsewhere.

How did Thomas explain the disappearance of the palace to the king?

When the king visited to see the palace and found nothing, Thomas explained that the palace was invisible to the king but would be visible to him after his death. He emphasized that the true palace was the charity and care he had shown to the poor.

How does the script describe Thomas's faith journey?

Thomas's faith journey is characterized by doubt and a need for certainty. He was not easily convinced and needed clear evidence before he could believe. However, once he was sure of God's calling, he fully committed, even to the point of sacrificing everything for the cause.

What lesson can be drawn from Thomas's reaction to his call to serve in India?

The lesson is that faith can sometimes require resistance or doubt before fully committing. However, when one is convinced and certain, complete devotion and self-sacrifice, as demonstrated by Thomas, can follow. This emphasizes the importance of clarity and courage in following God's call.

What is the significance of the term 'Doubting Thomas' in relation to his character?

The term 'Doubting Thomas' refers to Thomas's initial skepticism about Jesus's resurrection. He demanded physical proof before he would believe. However, the script highlights that while he had doubts, his eventual full commitment to faith demonstrates the depth of his belief and courage once he was convinced.

What impact did Thomas have in India, and how is his legacy viewed?

Thomas is credited with converting many people to Christianity in India, leaving a significant legacy. Today, around 1% of India's population is Christian, with much of this attributed to Thomas's missionary work. He is remembered as an apostle who risked everything to spread the message of Christ.

How does the script encourage those struggling with faith?

The script encourages people who struggle with faith to take a moment to reflect on what God might be calling them to do, whether it’s overcoming personal obstacles or stepping into new challenges. It emphasizes the importance of saying 'yes' to God’s call, just as Thomas did, even when it requires courage and risk.

What is the 'call to action' in the podcast, and what does it encourage listeners to do?

The call to action encourages listeners to reflect on areas in their lives where they may still need to say 'yes' to God. This could involve letting go of bad habits or embracing new challenges. The goal is to trust in God's plan and have the courage to act on it, just as Thomas did after receiving clarity.

What is the focus of the Instagram page mentioned in the script, and how does it relate to prayer?

The Instagram page focuses on teaching people how to pray and connect with God. Initially centered around meditation, it has evolved to include prayer methods, especially Lectio Divina, and encourages followers to deepen their spiritual practices and trust in God's work in their lives.