Sayings from Thomas

In 1945, the Gospel of Thomas was discovered in a cave near Hag Hammadi, in upper Egypt. There has been a tremendous effort to make it "go away" since it was bound with the books of the Gnostics and considered heresy by many, even though its text does not follow the philosophy of the Gnostics.  It is lacking in context and can be difficult to understand. To me, it is more of a random grocery list of sayings of Jesus that leads the reader to seek meaning in life and themselves. I can almost picture Thomas, or whoever the author or authors really were, saying over and over, "Oh, that's a good one. I better write that down." Here are a few passages that intrigue me and make me wonder if Jesus did say these words. Many of the sayings of Thomas sound familiar because I have read them in the other Gospels, but some are new to me, and make me think, question, and ask God for guidance in the reading of the word. I like that in a text.

Thomas 2: Jesus said: The seeker should not stop until he finds. When he does find, he will be disturbed. After having been disturbed, he will be astonished. Then he will reign over everything. 

I think the use of disturbed is very interesting, and the last line gives individuals great power.

Thomas 5: Jesus said: Recognize what is right in front of you, and that which is hidden from you will be revealed to you. Nothing hidden will fail to be displayed. 

That sounds like a passage I remember, but I like the straightforwardness of the first phrase. I believe truth is brought to the light, but we can't see it if our batteries are low. That's my twist.

Thomas 17: Jesus said: I will give you that which eyes have not seen, ears have not heard, hands did not touch, and minds have not conceived.

That could explain why the path is narrow. I wonder if we can conceive "that" now?

Here's one more saying that struck a cord with me. There are many more, but it's late, so I'll wrap it up after this one. Thomas 23:  Jesus said: I will choose one of you out of a thousand and two of you out of ten thousand. They will stand up and they will be alone.

I can relate. May the grace of God be with you.

Peace.

                                                Love, Linda