The second reading, from the Apocalypse, reminds us that we have a rich Jewish heritage and share so much with the Jewish people. The author of the last book of the New Testament was a Jewish Christian, who had been exiled to the island of Patmos. This was a rugged, isolated and sparsely-vegetated place to which the Romans sent convicts and religious and political dissidents. The seven lampstands represent the Christian community, seven being a symbol of completeness. John’s imagery throughout the Apocalypse draws heavily from Judaism. The lampstands bring back memories of the sevenfold lamp which burnt before the presence of God in the Sanctuary. He also draws on the Book of Daniel, when he pictures the Son of Man (Daniel 7:9-14).
Today’s readings present us with two pictures of Christ. In the Apocalypse, Jesus is presented in all his glory. He is High Priest in the Sanctuary, he is the First and the the Last, and his majesty is such that John falls in a dead faint at his feet. In the gospel, however, Jesus appears in his humanity, displaying his wounds which he invites Thomas to touch.