see, then believe what you can't see
"You became a believer because you saw Me. Blest are they who have not seen and have believed." —John 20:29
Contrary to the old saying, seeing is not believing. Faith is "conviction about things we do not see" (Heb 11:1). However, seeing is a platform from which we make "the leap of faith," as Blaise Pascal called it. Jesus told St. Thomas that those who jumped or leaped to the conclusion that Jesus was Lord and God were especially blest if they did this without ever seeing Jesus physically. Jesus specifically prays for these people who believe in Him through the word of His witnesses without the help of seeing Him physically (Jn 17:20).
Although seeing is not the same as believing, seeing can be prior to believing, and seeing is a gift of God to us. Although the Lord does not necessarily want us to see Him before we go to be with Him in heaven, He does want us to see His works and His glory. Jesus commanded us: "Believe because of the works I do" (Jn 14:11; see also 5:36).
See all that the Lord wants you to see. Thank Him for working in your life. Leap to the conclusion that this One Who is invisibly touching, loving, guiding, and protecting you is loving you more perfectly. He loves you unconditionally and infinitely. In response to His love, have faith that this Someone in your life is Love (1 Jn 4:16) and Life (Jn 14:6). See all that you can see. Then by faith, not sight (2 Cor 5:7), accept Jesus as Lord and God (Jn 20:28).
Prayer: Father, "increase our faith" (Lk 17:5).
Promise: "You form a building which rises on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the Capstone." —Eph 2:20
Praise: "My Lord and my God!" (Jn 20:28)
Reference: (For a related teaching on Hold Fast to the Faith, order, listen to or download our CD 71-1 or DVD 71 on our website.)
Rescript: †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, February 27, 2018
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