I am an amateur student of history, and I enjoy
ancient and medieval history. In addition, perhaps because it is but a
generation removed, I especially like to study World War II.
I am amazed that the German people let Hitler come
to power and most did not try to stop him. I am astounded at the politics and
what it took for the United States to enter the war. I am also surprised at how easily the Nazis
conquered Europe and sealed it off from the Western world.
The US and England needed to invade France,
and they chose Omaha Beach in Normandy. Eighteen year old men travelled across
the English Channel, waded in water from their amphibious vehicles to the
beach, with German gunfire peppering their approach. Nearly 1 in 10 Allied
Forces perished on June 6, 1944.
What went through the minds of these young men on
that day? Did they think they were invincible? Did they not understand the
danger? Or was their courage driven by the need to preserve freedom?
We can’t really say, but I can’t help but admire
these heroes.
Today’s reading is John 11:1-16. Lazarus, brother
of Martha and Mary, had died in Bethany. Word came to Jesus, who planned to
travel through Jerusalem to Bethany to restore Lazarus to health.
There was a problem. The Jews had recently
attempted to stone Jesus and he fled with his disciples. His disciples thought
travelling back through Jerusalem was not a good idea, since it clearly was not
safe for Jesus.
After Jesus and some disciples had their
discussion, Thomas chimed in, “Let us also go, that we may die with him
[Jesus].”
On the one hand, you have to admire Thomas. He
believed that following Jesus in this instance meant sure death. Yet, he was
willing to go.
On the other hand, you have to question Thomas.
Did he not know who Jesus is? Did he not believe Jesus when he implied he would
make it to Bethany? Thomas did not yet “get it.”
Thomas’ understanding was weak, but he did have a
strong faith!
Like the WWII heroes, I can’t help but admire
Thomas!
