This Sunday falls within the Octave of Easter, and is called Divine Mercy Sunday. The story of the “missing” Thomas is told. He is not present when the resurrected Lord appears to the “ten.” He serves as the twin representing anyone who like him was not present for the first Easter. The story is told as the great hope for those who were not present on the day of Resurrection. It is a reminder that the Easter experience is available to all generations. The requirement is simple. To experience the risen Christ requires “companionship,” the church.

The pressing issue of Thomas’ absence makes us inquire why he wasn’t present with the other 10 apostles. At no other time did they need him more than then. When all their hopes seemed crushed, and the death of Christ seemed overwhelming, all they had left was each other. Huddled together behind closed doors, fear is dismissed as the Lord makes his way to disciples who are gathered together. His greeting of  Easter Peace is connected to his wounds. They had learned well the cost of discipleship it means being there for each other!  As the Gospel writer, John, reminded us a few verses earlier at the Last Supper, Jesus had told them what was needed: “As I have loved you, so must you love one another.” The ultimate test of Easter is being there for each other.

This makes Easter accessible to all those who were not physically present back then to experience the Risen One now. Easter’s template is clear: Be there for each other!