The Gospel of John recounts the first and second appearances of the Risen Jesus to the Apostles, who were skeptical of the announcement made by Mary Magdalene and the other holy women. “Jesus stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you.’ After he said this, he showed them his hands and side” (John 20:19-20). In other words, he showed them the wounds inflicted by the nails and the spear during his crucifixion. Jesus kept these open wounds as proof that his body, now resurrected and glorious, is the same one that was crucified, and as a reminder of his love for us.

Thomas was not present at the first apparition and stubbornly refused to believe: “Unless I put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe” (John 20:25). But at the second apparition, Thomas was there, and Jesus came to his rescue: “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe” (John 20:27). And Thomas surrendered at his feet and left us a precious short prayer that is a complete profession of faith, love, and repentance: “My Lord and my God.”

Christian piety constantly uses this short prayer before the wounds of Christ as a refuge: “Hide me within your wounds.” “Enter into the wounds of Christ crucified. There you will learn to guard your senses, to have an interior life….” (The Way, 288)

BETWEEN YOUR WOUNDS

Your five wounds: that’s the secret.

You showed them to the incredulous Twin,

who prostrated himself at your feet, and was reborn

-“My Lord and my God!”_ completely.

Into your wounds, Lord, I also plunge,

And although I am cowardly and easily frightened,

I finally let myself be won over by his spell

and I find refuge in my struggles.

So many times, Lord, my faith fades

I’m about to get lost

when the Bad Guy has me cornered.

Hide me, then, in the wound

of your right hand and your left hand,

and in the greater wound in your side.