Building God’s Household Through Faith

Eph 2:19-22; Psalm: 116; Jn 20:24-29

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, today, we will reflect on the profound truth of building God’s household through faith. In Ephesians chapter 2, verses 19 to 22, Paul writes about our transformation from strangers to citizens. We have been welcomed into a divine family, a community that is built on faith. We are not just isolated individuals, but living stones, intricately woven together to form a magnificent temple of the Spirit. Imagine that for a moment. Each of us, with our unique stories, struggles, and triumphs, contributes to this glorious structure that God calls His household. There is a beauty in our diversity, a strength in our unity. We are called to embrace this citizenship, to recognize that we are part of something much larger than ourselves. In our daily lives, this means understanding that our actions, our faith, and our love for one another are fundamental to the health and growth of this sacred space.

Now, let us turn to the story of Thomas in John chapter 20. Here we find a man grappling with doubt, a man who has seen the miraculous yet struggles to believe. Thomas’ journey is one we can all relate to. He wanted proof, tangible evidence of the risen Christ. But what did he receive instead? Divine mercy. Jesus did not scold Thomas for his doubt; rather, He invited him to touch His wounds and believe. In this moment, we see the heart of our Savior, who meets us in our struggles, who welcomes our questions, and who offers us grace in our uncertainty. Thomas’s story reminds us of the beatitude of faith. Jesus said Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe. This is a challenge and an encouragement for us all. Faith is not merely about what we see with our eyes. It is about trusting in what we cannot see, believing in a God who is constantly at work in our lives, shaping us into living stones.

So, how do we apply these powerful truths in our daily lives? First, let us embrace our citizenship in God’s household. This means actively participating in the life of the church, serving one another, and reaching out to those who feel like strangers. We build each other up, reminding one another of our worth and belonging in God’s family.

Next, we must commit to building up the temple of the Spirit. This is not just a physical structure; it is about cultivating a community filled with love, grace, and acceptance. Let us create an environment where each person feels valued, where doubts can be shared, and where faith can flourish. Bring your doubts to Christ, just as Thomas did. Do not shy away from your questions. In fact, bring them to Him in prayer. Allow Him to speak into your uncertainties, to fill you with His peace. Remember, it is okay to struggle; it is okay to seek. God is not afraid of our doubts. He invites us to trust Him with them.

Finally, be a witness of mercy. Share your story of how faith has transformed your life. Encourage others with your experience of God’s grace. Let us be living stones, not just for ourselves but for the world around us, showing others what it means to be part of God’s household. In conclusion, dear friends, let us build God’s household through faith. Together, as living stones, let us create a sanctuary of love and mercy, where doubt is met with grace, and faith is celebrated. Amen.

St. Augustine: On the Church as Temple: “You are the body of Christ. In you and through you the work of God must be fulfilled” (Sermon 229).

St. Thérèse of Lisieux: On Faith Like Thomas: “I do not see Him, I do not hear Him, and yet I love Him… I would not want to see Him or hear Him except by faith” (Story of a Soul).

Pope Benedict XVI: On Thomas & Faith: “Faith is not a product of reflection; it is not even an attempt to penetrate the depths of our own being. Faith is an encounter with a Person to whom we entrust ourselves” (General Audience, 2012).