It appears that the disciples have heard, but have certainly not believed Mary’s testimony of having encountered the resurrected Jesus. They have gathered together in fear, behind locked doors, to grieve Jesus’ death. When he appears to them, the first thing he does is to offer them a blessing of peace. Then he shows them the evidence of marks of crucifixion visible even on his resurrected body. And only then do they believe that it is really him and dare to rejoice. Just as Mary and the other disciples needed a personal experience of the resurrected Jesus, so does Thomas. Without hearing and seeing what those first disciples did, what compels you to believe in Jesus? Or, what would make it possible for you to do so?